Washington, D.C. (July 28, 2008) – With increasing focus on environment-friendly agriculture practices, farmers need a safe alternative to methyl bromide, a chemical fumigant that has been used to control crop-harming parasites such as soil nematodes. Identified as an ozone-depleting substance, the use of methyl bromide has been phased out by the Environmental Protection Agency. Knowing heat is a proven method to control parasites, the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) launched a two-phase research project to find a chemical-free alternative for soil nematode control using propane-fueled heat.
Nematodes are microscopic parasites that attack plant roots, affecting their ability to absorb moisture and nutrients. Infection of young plants may be lethal, while infection of mature plants causes decreased yields.
“The growing emphasis on chemical reduction and organic agriculture provides opportunities for us to create safe propane technology that helps growers maintain or improve yields,” says Mark Leitman, PERC director of agriculture programs. “With this project, we are looking to control soil nematodes, and at the end of our research, we hope to develop a safer method for dealing with these parasites.”
The research effort, funded by PERC and conducted by the Gas Technology Institute (GTI), will develop a propane-fueled heat transfer system for soil nematode control. The technology uses clean-burning propane to superheat steam that is then applied directly to the soil. This raises the soil temperature long enough to kill nematodes in the crop root zone.
“While we still have a couple of years of research and development ahead of us, we are already making great strides in creating a safe, propane-fueled technology that will control nematodes and benefit both farmers and the environment,” said Neil Leslie, R&D manager with GTI.
In the first phase of the project, two soil heating techniques were tested with successful results: a horizontal pipe system placed 8 to 10 inches below the surface with a one-hour heating period and a surface blanket containing steam-filled pipes with a heating period of 14 hours. Due to the extensive heating period required for the steam blanket, the horizontal pipe system was selected as the basis for further design and prototype development.
During the second phase, GTI will develop a heat distribution system, focusing on a subsoil steam-air injection design and will conduct lab and field tests in California and Florida to determine crop compatibility and the efficacy of nematode control.
The system is designed to work well in areas with dry climates that can produce a variety of crops, such as California and Florida, and on high value crops with short growing periods, including tomatoes and strawberries. The technology also will be a benefit to organic farmers, who cannot use chemicals to protect crops from harmful pests.
PERC’s vision is that by 2010 the agricultural industry will embrace propane as a preferred energy source that offers cost-effectiveness, efficiency and productivity, reliability, portability, and environmental friendliness.
For more information on PERC and its programs to promote the safe and efficient use of propane in agriculture, call (202) 452-8975 or visit www.agpropane.com.