A recent study evaluated the performance of an electrostatic knapsack sprayer with a hydraulic nozzle, focusing on its coverage and deposition capabilities in both laboratory and field conditions.

Research on electrostatic spraying has progressed from merely assessing the effectiveness of electrical charge application to examining factors such as nozzle design and droplet charging efficiency.

This electrostatic spraying technology enhances spray deposition by charging droplets, which increases their attraction to grounded targets, thereby improving coverage.

Electrostatic sprayers have demonstrated significant improvements in droplet density and spray retention while also reducing the overall volume of spray used in various agricultural settings.

The charge-to-mass ratio (CMR) serves as a crucial performance indicator, with higher values correlating to better droplet attraction and effective coverage on plant surfaces.

Specific CMR values have been identified, indicating that an increase in CMR enhances spray deposition, particularly on leaf surfaces.

Tomato plants treated with large droplets were observed to be shorter and more compact compared to those receiving small droplets or no spray, suggesting a notable impact of droplet size on plant morphology.

Plants sprayed with large droplets exhibited significant hormonal changes, including higher levels of chlorogenic acid, which enhances their defenses against pests like moth larvae and fungal infections.

Additionally, these large droplet-sprayed plants emitted fewer volatile organic compounds, making them less attractive to egg-laying moths, resulting in a 74% reduction in eggs on their leaves.

The findings suggest that advancements in water spray technology could lead to greener and more efficient agricultural practices, promoting sustainability in farming.

Given the significant threats posed by climate change to crop production, there is an urgent need for alternative methods to protect plants without relying on chemical pesticides.

As modern agriculture increasingly relies on pesticides, conventional spraying methods face challenges such as poor deposition and environmental pollution, highlighting the importance of innovative solutions.