A Temperature Programmable One Dimensional Thermogradient Table with LED Lighting for Germination and Seedling Research.

Thermogradient tables are frequently used for seed germination testing over a wide range of temperatures simultaneously. They are also used for testing the temperature performance of seed coating materials and treatments at different temperatures. For example, a gradient table would allow to quickly test the effects of seed priming treatments at different temperatures. Gradient tables operate by circulating warm and cold solutions through pipes welded to opposite ends of an aluminum plate. The plate is enclosed in an insulated case to maintain the gradient.  We have developed gradient tables made of water resistant polymers that have programmable circulating water baths. The tables can maintain a gradient from zero to 50 degrees C and if required temperatures can be programmed to change over time.  The use of LED growlights enables experiments to be conducted over a broad range of temperatures with light. Other types of research can be conducted on the gradient table such as insect reproductive studies, screening cell cultures for temperature tolerance, and the investigation of the physical properties of materials. It is hoped that LED-lighted thermogradient tables will provide a cost effective alternative to growth chambers for research involving small volumes over a wide range of temperatures.