Plant Protective Coating

Technology Description

 

Oregon State University is seeking a licensee or research collaborator interested in developing and commercializing new plant protective coatings that supplement a plant’s natural protective cuticle. Application of the coating to fruit can prevent or reduce cracking, sunburn, and insect damage. In certain applications, the coatings also increase fruit size and extend the shelf life of post-harvest fruit.

 

Features & Benefits

 

  • Protective cuticle supplement for reduced water loss and water usage
  • Increased fruit size
  • Reduced fruit damage

 

Applications

 

  • Fruits
  • Flowers
  • Vegetables

 

Background of Invention

 

The plant cuticle is an extracellular hydrophobic layer that covers the aerial epidermis of all land plants. The cuticle plays an important role in maintaining overall crop health and quality. The physiological role of the cuticle extends well beyond its primary function as a transpiration barrier, playing important roles in processes ranging from development to interaction with microbes. In some aspects, the plant cuticle functions similarly to human skin, protecting the plant from dehydration as well as serving as a barrier against certain bacteria, fungi, pests, and environmental stresses. By thickening the cuticle layer through the application of an exogenous product that can create a cuticle-like coating layer, the impact of plant stressors can be lessened, which can lead to increase in marketable yields and improving fruit quality.

 

Status

Patent pending

 

 

Patent Information:
Tech ID:
OSU-17-40
Category(s):
Agricultural
Chemical
Contact:
Joe Christison
Assistant Director, IP & Licensing
Oregon State University
541-737-9016
joe.christison@oregonstate.edu
Inventors:
Vaughn Walton
Clive Kaiser
Keywords:
Agriculture
Barrier
Fruit
Harvest
Shelf
Shelf life
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