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Materials used for seed storage containers: response to Gómez-Campo [Seed Science Research16, 291–294 (2006)]†

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 December 2007

Christina Walters
Christina Walters*
Affiliation:
USDA-ARS National Center for Genetic Resources Preservation, 1111 South Mason Street, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
*
*Correspondence Fax: 1-970-221-1427 Email: christina.walters@ars.usda.gov
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Abstract

Efficient seed storage is a shared concern among the growing number of seed banks established for crop improvement or ex situ conservation. Container properties greatly affect seed interactions with the environment and the overall cost and success of seed banking operations. Several material properties contribute to their suitability as seed containers. This paper provides a consolidated list of water vapour permeability properties of thermal plastics commonly used for packaging. Composite packages with layers of film with different properties provide distinct advantages to seed banks. Different seed banks must rank the importance of the various factors depending on their mission and resources. Once the risks, costs and benefits are weighed, an appropriate strategy can be developed that addresses a seed bank's specific needs. Because there are many problems and several solutions, it is likely that strategies will vary among seed banks. This response details variables to consider when selecting seed storage packages, and focuses on water diffusion rates of packages with different compositions. A ‘moisture audit’ will help seed bank operators make informed decisions about packaging.

Keywords

containersgenebankpsychrometricsseed storagethermal plasticsultradry
Type
Research Article
Information
Seed Science Research , Volume 17 , Issue 4 , December 2007 , pp. 233 - 242
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2007

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Footnotes

†

This work was funded by institutional sources. Mention of trade names or commercial products in this publication is solely for the purpose of providing specific information and does not imply recommendation or endorsement by the US Department of Agriculture.

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