Hélder Puga

This study investigates the characterization of acoustic cavitation in a water-filled, opaque chamber induced by ultrasonic waves at 20 kHz. It examines the effect of different acoustic radiator geometries on cavitation generation across varying electrical power levels. A cost-effective piezoelectric sensor, precisely positioned, quantifies cavitation under assorted power settings. Two acoustic radiator shape configurations, one with holes and another solid, were examined. The piezoelectric sensor demonstrated efficacy, corroborating with existing literature, in measuring acoustic cavitation. This was achieved through the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analysis of voltage data, specifically targeting sub-harmonic patterns, thereby providing a robust method for cavitation detection. Results demonstrate that perforated geometries enhance cavitation intensity at lower power levels, while solid shapes predominantly affect cavitation axially, exhibiting decreased activity at minimal power. The findings recommend using two different shape geometries on the acoustic radiator for efficient cavitation detection, highlighting intense cavitation on radial walls and cavitation generation on the bottom. Due to the stochastic nature of cavitation, averaging data is critical. The spatial limitation of the sensor necessitates prioritizing specific areas over complete coverage, with multiple sensors recommended for comprehensive cavitation pattern analysis.

Since the early 1930s, when the first corn hybrids were grown commercially, innovations in the agriculture industry have had an unprecedent impact worldwide, helping to meet the demands for food of an exponentially growing population. In particular, seed technology research has contributed substantially to the improvement of crop performance over the years. Ultrasonic treatment of seeds is a green technology that promises to have an impact on the food industry, enhancing germination and seedling development in different species through the stimulation of water and oxygen uptake and seed metabolism. The increase in starch degradation has been associated with the stimulation of the α ‐amylases of the endosperm, but relatively few reports focus on how ultrasound affects seed germination at the biochemical and molecular levels. For instance, the picture is still unclear regarding the impact of ultrasound on transcriptional reprogramming in seeds. The purpose of this review is to assess the literature on ultrasound seed treatment accurately and critically, ultimately aiming to encourage new scientific and technological breakthroughs with a real impact on worldwide agricultural production while promoting sustainable practices on biological systems. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.