Key Takeaways
- Plasad is launching a large-scale organic turmeric cultivation project in India using plasma technology.
- The initiative aims to enhance productivity while minimizing the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
- The project is funded by The Invention Lab and involves collaboration with local farms and institutions.
Expanding the Role of Plasma Technology in Agriculture
Plasma technology is making inroads into agriculture, driven by the demand for eco-friendly practices and sustainable farming solutions. As part of this trend, Plasad, a plasma agricultural technology company backed by The Invention Lab, is set to launch a demonstration project for organic turmeric cultivation across approximately 700,000 square meters in India.
The project will begin this August in the Lakhadong region of northeastern India, involving about 100 local farms. Plasad will utilize its proprietary ‘nitric oxide active water,’ known for enhancing plant physiological activity, thereby reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. This demonstration also aims to assess how this technology can increase curcumin levels, a critical component of turmeric.
Plasad was founded by Professor Eunha Choi from Kwangwoon University’s Department of Electronic and Bio-Physics and its Plasma Bio-Science Research Institute. The startup specializes in developing eco-friendly agricultural equipment based on atmospheric pressure plasma technology. The Invention Lab initially invested in Plasad through the ‘Kwangwoon University The Invention Lab Deep Tech Venture Investment Fund No. 1.’ This fund was created in partnership with Kwangwoon University Technology Holdings and further supported the company in securing recommendations for TIPS—a private investment-led initiative from the Ministry of SMEs and Startups that aids technology startups.
This project represents a significant advancement as it demonstrates how academic research can lead to practical applications in agriculture. The collaboration not only highlights the technology’s applicability but also showcases the importance of investment in early-stage startups that bridge the gap between academic innovation and market needs. The Invention Lab plans to extend its focus on early-stage investments and support for university-linked deep tech companies, enhancing their transition to global markets while furthering technology commercialization.
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