Use of non-intrusive laser exfoliation to improve substance uptake into citrus leaves

Background: Despite the presence of stomata in leaves, foliar application agrochemicals can be extremely inefficient due to low permeability leaf cuticular surfaces polar compounds. Methods: This study introduced a laser-based “wax exfoliation” method facilitate penetration substances into and, together with enhancing their uptake phloem and subsequent transport across tissue. This investigation demonstrated effectiveness non-invasive properties laser exfoliation improve foliar-applied citrus leaves. Results: work presents use energy exfoliate cuticle leaf, highest density 0.76 J/ cm2 resulting 85-90% entire laser-spot area. The infrared wavelength erbium is specifically chosen target wax without causing damage underlying epidermal cells. selective ablation allows for increased therapeutic compounds transportation throughout plant's vasculature. using fluorescent glucose analog applied treated showing leaf. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that technology provides significant advantages, including improved foliage compounds. presented this highly effective non-intrusive, limiting its effects only. Future should focus on development prototypes in-field applications, testing at longer distances as Er:YAG does not require lens application.