Some more limitations on imaging direct beta particles in
plants arise from the fact that plants need to be imaged in situ,
without significant disturbance. This limits the use of a current
positron detector, in the present state we would not be able to
image plant roots, as they are supposed to be either stay in the
soil or be submerged in hydroponic solution. Some creative
ideas are needed in order to overcome the limitations. Several
detector designs are being discussed at present. For example, a
plant container can be made out of scintillating plastic,
permitting imaging of plant roots with high efficiency.
We are planning to carry out real plant biology experiments
in the near future.