Microfocus X-ray method for detecting hidden defects in seeds of woody forest species and other types of vascular plants

Modern hardware solutions used to obtain digital X-ray images of seeds are characterized. The main visualization methods and techniques for analyzing digital X-ray images of seeds are described. We revealed and assessed hidden defects of seed samples of the studied species such as Siberian cedar pine ( Pinus sibirica Du Tour), Korean cedar pine (P. koraiensis Siebold & Zucc.), sugar corn (Zea mays L.), cucumber (Cucumis sativum L.), and pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) by microfocus X-ray radiography in combination with automatic analysis of digital X-ray images. Empty-grain and partially full-grain seeds have lower values of the “average brightness” of X-ray diffraction patterns. A comparative assessment of X-ray indicators and germination capacity of seedlings as integrated indicators for assessing the biological usefulness of seeds is performed.