Validation of a pressurized endotherapeutic applicator for phytosanitary control in perennial plants

• Grant number: 25/10956-1
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: November 01, 2025
• End date: July 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Agronomy - Plant Health
• Principal Investigator: Jordana Alves Ferreira
• Grantee: Jordana Alves Ferreira

Abstract

Vegetative endotherapy involves the application of phytosanitary and nutritional products directly into the plant's stem or trunk, demonstrating high efficacy in the control of diseases and pests in perennial plants. However, in Brazil, there are no commercially available devices adapted to the anatomical architecture of both dicotyledonous and monocotyledonous plants, limiting the adoption of this technique in addressing challenges such as citrus greening, coconut crown disorders, and pest and disease control in urban, forest, ornamental, and fruit-bearing plants. Over the years, pressurized endotherapy has shown significant advantages when properly applied: greater precision in product delivery, reduced application volumes, minimal tissue damage, prolonged treatment effectiveness, fewer reapplications, and lower exposure of the formulation to degradative enzymes. Additionally, since the application is performed in a region with lower water potential than the roots, it promotes more efficient product translocation and distribution within the plant. In this first phase, the goal is to conduct field validation of a low-cost pressurized endotherapeutic applicator prototype, developed with proprietary resources and with a patent application already filed. The study aims to adjust operational parameters (pressure, volume, and injection rate) to optimize formulation translocation without causing plant damage. The applicator will be 3D-printed and tested in experimental areas alongside growers, undergoing tightness, pressure, application uniformity, and performance efficiency tests. The requested funds will enable the demonstration of the applicator's efficacy and safety, generating data to support design refinements and the development of injection molds for future scale-up. In addition to drilling and leak tests, the prototypes will be used in the field with both commercial and in-house formulations prepared using the minimal laboratory infrastructure requested, optimizing logistics and confirming the functionality of the device prior to large-scale validation. The successful validation of this technology will strengthen On Plant's position in the national and Latin American markets by offering a competitive, environmentally friendly solution that reduces cross-contamination, promotes the sustainability of perennial crops, and decreases the intensive use of agrochemicals-presenting a novel modality of alternative treatment. (AU)