Journal of Microwave Power and Electromagnetic Energy (JMPEE)
TITLE	A Theoretical Investigation of Microwave Irradiation of Seeds in Soil [PDF]
AUTHORS	R.G.Olsen 1975 10 3 281-296
YEAR
VOLUME
ISSUE
PAGES
Abstract The case for a buried, unimbibed seed exposed to microwave radiation from above the soil is treated theoretically. The effect of this exposure on the germination potential of the seed is computed. It has been assumed that the effect can be attributed to Joule heating and that it is cumulative. It has been found that the seed can be heated to a significantly higher temperature than its soil environment (selective heating) and that this can lead to a saving in the energy necessary to produce germination control. Also, it was found that soil type was a critical factor in determining the effect of the exposure. Lastly, for unimbibed seeds buried in a mineral soil it has been determined that the required energy density for germination control is in excess of 800 joules/cm².