Application of Plasma-Activated Mist for the Control of Plant Insect Pests

Plant pests pose a significant threat to agricultural productivity, while chemical pesticides cause environmental concerns. In this study, plasma-activated mist (PAM) generated by mixing water mist with plasma-activated gas could effectively inactivate Myzus persicae adults and Helicoverpa armigera larvae and eggs. PAM treatment induced an increase in oxidative stress markers, such as malondialdehyde levels and superoxide dismutase activities in pests. The reactive species in PAM left only trace nitrate residues on leaves. Furthermore, the 50-day consecutive PAM treatment had little effects on the growth and appearance of the Malabar spinach. Therefore, the PAM supplied a promising, effective, and environmentally-friendly alternative for large-scale applications in agricultural fields.