Magnesium carbonate (MgCO₃) has shown unique potential in the field of fruit ripening in recent years. This paper combines its chemical properties and biological mechanisms to explore its core role in ripening agents.
1. Chemical properties of magnesium carbonate
Magnesium carbonate is a weakly alkaline white powder with hygroscopicity, thermal stability and adjustable pH buffering ability. Its decomposition products (Mg²⁺ and CO₂) have a dual regulatory effect on plant metabolism:
Magnesium ion (Mg²⁺): As an essential element for chlorophyll synthesis, it can enhance sugar accumulation and color conversion in the later stage of fruit ripening.
Carbon dioxide (CO₂): The microrelease can inhibit the activity of ethylene oxidase, indirectly delay excessive consumption of ethylene, and prolong the action cycle of ripening agent.
2. Synergistic effects in ripening agents
Traditional ripening agents are centered on ethylene (or ethylene) but are prone to unstable effects due to fluctuations in ambient humidity or temperature. The addition of magnesium carbonate can optimize the ripening process through the following ways:
Humidity regulation: Hygroscopicity reduces the risk of agglomeration of ripening agent particles and ensures uniform release of active ingredients.
pH buffering: maintain a weak alkaline environment (pH 7.5-8.5) of the ripening agent solution to prevent the ethylene from decomposing too quickly.
Carrier function: As a porous carrier, it adsorbs ethylene gas to achieve slow release and reduce the problem of uneven fruit softening caused by centralized release.
3. Experimental data support
Studies have shown that adding ripening agents with 1%-3% magnesium carbonate can shorten the ripening time of bananas by 12%-18%, and the color uniformity of the peel is increased by 22%. In the mango ripening experiment, the utilization rate of ethylene in the magnesium carbonate group was increased by 30%, and the shelf life was extended by 2-3 days.
4. Technical challenges and prospects
At present, it is necessary to solve the adaptability of the fineness of magnesium carbonate particles to spray forms and the risk of soil alkalization caused by excessive magnesium. In the future, a nano-scale magnesium carbonate composite sustained release system may be developed to further improve efficiency.