Numerous studies related to the effects of pressure and antimicrobial
agents separately on germination rate of seeds has been published,
but until now there are no literature data on the combined
effects of both treatments. Thus, Ariefdjohan et al. (2004) found
that pressurised (275–575 MPa) alfalfa seeds at 40 C for 2 min
or 475 MPa for 2–8 min took longer to germinate, achieving germination
rate of up to 34%, while 95% of the control seed germinated.
The authors observed under a light microscope that the coats of
treated seeds were damaged, showing cracks or completely broken
seeds.