Synthesis and Characteristics of Selenium Nanoparticles for Enriching Radish Seedlings

Abstract

Selenium is an essential trace element for humans, animals, and plants, the main function of which is protecting the body from oxidative stress. The use of enriched food products, the seeds of which were treated with a preparation based on nanoscale zero-valent selenium in the form of colloidal solutions, is promising for the physiological requirements of humans. Solutions were prepared by laser ablation and ultrasonic dispersion. Colloidal solutions with selenium concentration up to 9.8 mg/L were obtained. Solutions diluted to a concentration of 0.38 mg/L were used for treating of radish seeds during germination. It was established that nanoscale selenium is less toxic than sodium selenite and selenate and it has significantly accelerated seed germination, leading to an increase in the selenium content and the content of polyphenols in seedlings to a higher extent when compared with hexavalent selenium.