Thai Researchers Develop Plasma-Based Cleaning Technology for Wolffia
A research team from King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang has introduced a plasma-based cleaning system to streamline the production of Wolffia, a traditional Thai aquatic plant.
Researchers at the Faculty of Agricultural Technology, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL), led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rungtawan Yomla, have developed an innovative cleaning machine for Wolffia, locally known as 'Khai Phum'. As this nutrient-rich aquatic plant gains popularity as a modern alternative food source, scaling up production has faced significant post-harvest challenges, particularly regarding efficient and safe cleaning processes.
The research team initially explored various methods, including ozone and nano-bubble technology, but found them insufficient for microbial control or safety standards. They ultimately selected plasma energy technology for water treatment. This system is designed to replace labor-intensive manual washing, offering a faster, more systematic, and safer approach to processing large quantities of the plant while maintaining its quality.
For residents and those interested in Thailand’s agricultural sector, this innovation represents a significant step toward industrializing the production of traditional superfoods. By reducing reliance on manual labor and improving hygiene standards, the technology could make Wolffia more accessible in local and international markets. While the technology shows promise in laboratory settings, further details regarding the commercial availability of these machines and their long-term impact on production costs remain to be confirmed.
