Cold plasma for insect pest control: <i>Tribolium castaneum</i> mortality and defense mechanisms in response to treatment

The insecticidal properties and mechanisms of high-voltage air-based atmospheric cold plasma using a contained dielectric barrier discharge reactor were investigated against Tribolium castaneum as an important bio-contaminant in stored grains spoilage. mortality 95.0%–100% for preadult stages can be achieved within seconds treatment, but longer exposure (5 min) is required to kill adult insects. Cold treatment reduces both the respiration rate weight insects affects levels oxidative stress markers populations. Sufficient toxicity achievable through process control air address range insect lifecycle that are disease vectors pose risks grain stability storage. Balancing activity with grains' quality retention provide route sustainable integrated pest management.