Flash Flaming as a Scalable Seed Treatment Tool and Commercial Product

Elvan Ling

Research output: ThesisMaster's Thesis

166 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Current attempts to restore degraded minesites using native seeds are ineffective and limited by complicated seed morphology. The patented Seed Flamer creates a continuous flow of seeds that repeatedly pass naked flames, which removes un-wanted appendages and improves seed morphology. This process, termed Flash Flaming, was first proven to be effective on the grass genus Triodia. However, the commercial applicability, both in terms of effectiveness on diverse species and of design of the tool, required broader testing. This thesis extended the application of Flash Flaming to 22 native species from the Pilbara region of Western Australia. Significant volume reduction, maintenance of germination potential, and increased flowability have been demonstrated in lab- and field-based tests. Quality Function Deployment was implemented to improve the functionality, robustness, broader applicability, and safety of the Seed Flamer. The Seed Flamer has now progressed to a Technology Readiness Level of 8-9, offering a viable commercial proposition.
Original languageEnglish
QualificationMasters
Awarding Institution
  • The University of Western Australia
Supervisors/Advisors
  • Guzzomi, Andrew, Supervisor
  • Erickson, Todd, Supervisor
  • Merritt, David, Supervisor
  • Renton, Michael, Supervisor
Thesis sponsors
Award date20 Jun 2021
DOIs
Publication statusUnpublished - 2021

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