Preparation of Low Molecular Weight Natural Polymers by gamma-Radiation and Their Growth Promoting Effect on Zea Maize Plants

Abstract

Preparation of oligosaccharides from chitosan and Na-alginate were done using ?-rays and H₂O₂ as oxidizing agent. Structural and molecular weight changes of such oligosaccharides were determined by GPC, FT-IR and UV-Vis. spectroscopy. FT-IR and UV-Vis. studies revealed that during radiation degradation process, the main polysaccharide chain structure was almost remained. The effects of spraying 100 ppm of oligochitosan or oligoalginate or both of them with different ratios on the growth of zea maize plants showed an enhancement of plant growth performance and the productivity at the same time suggesting their possible use in agriculture purposes as growth promoters for plants.