Applications of ozone in Cuban agriculture

Abstract

Introduction. Important agricultural losses are associated with poor phytosanitary seeds quality used and the products deterioration during postharvest. The water scarcity for irrigation limits agricultural development programs. Ozone use can become an environmentally friendly and economically feasible alternative for products treatment for human consumption and domestic wastewater recovery. Methods. Reactors allowing for the safe and efficient ozone application according to the specific objectives were designed and approved. Ozone doses were evaluated, both in atmospheres and aqueous solution, and the necessary timing in each of the cases under study. Results and Discussion. Methodologies were established for the plant seeds treatment as well as explants of yam and taro that allow for disinfection, sanitation and the enhancement of their germination capacity. Also for chambers and biotechnological flasks disinfection. A procedure for domestic wastewater recovery was standardized. Methodologies were established for tomato and papaya postharvest benefit. It is concluded that the application of ozone leads to methodologies economically feasible, with shorter time consumption, improved product quality, and lower storage costs. At the same time, they are environmentally friendly due to the substitution of chemical contaminant agents.