WO2020178631A1

WO2020178631A1 - System, device and method for the treatment of plant organisms affected by phytopathogenic agents

Info

Publication number: WO2020178631A1
Application number: PCT/IB2019/061294
Authority: WO
Inventors: Giovanni GATTA; Nicola FANTONI
Original assignee: Sanitrix S.R.L.
Priority date: 2019-03-01
Filing date: 2019-12-23
Publication date: 2020-09-10
Also published as: IT201900002075A1

Abstract

Described herein is a treatment device (100) for plant organisms affected by phytopathogenic agents, comprising: - a casing (102) defining a treatment volume (V) configured for housing a plant organism that is to undergo treatment (OE); and - a unit for administering a treatment agent (112, 114, 116, 118) configured for delivering at least one treatment agent within said treatment volume (V). A further object of the present description is a method for treating infections caused by phytopathogenic organisms in plant organisms that envisages the use of the aforementioned treatment device (100).

Description

“System, device and method for the treatment of plant organisms affected by phytopathogenic agents”

TEXT OF THE DESCRIPTION

Field of the invention

The present invention regards a system that can be applied to various instruments in the agricultural sector for cleansing and carrying out biopesticide treatments to eliminate any type of mite, bacterium, fungus, and harmful insect via the use of one or more gases in the liquid state and a biological natural liquid.

Prior art and general technical problem

Known in the art are devices and systems for applying pesticide products on plants or fruit, where such devices emit compressed air and pesticide product on the surface of the plants and fmit/vegetables, in the battle against mites, bacteria, fungi, and harmful insects.

The gas commonly used is compressed air, which is simple to produce and handle.

The devices and systems normally used for applying pesticide products on plants or fruit present various drawbacks: the majority of pesticide products available on the market are very toxic for human health. Multiple studies carried out by universities or laboratories demonstrate the correlation between diseases and pesticide products. Pesticide products are also dangerous for the environment and for some useful insects.

In addition, for agricultural operators to be able to carry out these mandatory operations, it is necessary to possess a licence that certifies that they will use with sufficient awareness these pesticide products that are harmful both for the environment and for human health.

This represents a major waste of time and hence economic damage for the operator, who is continuously subject to periodic checks.

In addition, since the containers of the above pesticide products are not recyclable, this implies a major waste of plastic, with all the disadvantages that non-recyclable plastic material entails.

Object of the invention

The object of the present patent application, as specified in the claims, is to propose a solution to all the aforesaid problems by providing an improved system and improved devices for application on plants and fruit/vegetables of biological pesticide product associated to the use of one or more gases in the liquid state.

The solutions adopted to overcome the drawbacks of systems that use pesticide products and air basically consist in the use of a totally biological pesticide product, which is not toxic for human health and for the environment, combined with the use of any gas in the liquid state.

Transformation of the gas from the liquid state to the gaseous state makes it possible to obtain micro-particles at extremely low temperatures, when combined with the particles of the biological pesticide liquid, enable the system according to the invention to reach the most impervious parts of the plant and attack any type of parasite, freezing it and altering its vital processes, bringing about its elimination.

The two components used simultaneously for treating plants and fruit prove effective against any type of mite, bacterium, fungus, and harmful insect, whereas they are not harmful for humans, for the environment, and for useful insects.

In addition, the aforesaid system entails further advantages that are basically the following: simplicity of use, given that to treat the plants and fruit the above system alone is sufficient, obviously applied on different devices that we shall analyse hereinafter; no particular precautions are required in the use of the system, and hence no licences are required; the biological pesticide product is also a fertilizer for the soil, stimulating the effect of nitrification; it can be applied not only to the agricultural sector, but also to the domestic or industrial sector, for removal of mites on surfaces, for disinfection of animals, and for sanitisation of any surface; this system is also a sanitizer of any type of surface, given that it removes any type of bacterium.

In addition, the containers of the biological pesticide product are totally re usable and recyclable, thus reducing waste of plastic, which is highly polluting.

The main task of the present invention is to eliminate any mite, bacterium, fungus, and harmful insect present on plants and fruit/vegetables without being harmful for the environment and toxic for humans.

Another object of the present invention is to enable sanitization of any surface.

A further object of the present invention is to maintain an intense jet of liquid product and gas in the liquid state, in combination, at a high rate and perfectly micronized. Summary of the invention

The above and further objects, both direct and complementary ones, are achieved by the new instantaneous system for mixing of a gas in the liquid state and a biological pesticide product, which can be applied to different devices and equipment, for sanitizing any surface and eliminating any type of mite, bacterium, fungus, and harmful insect, the system including in its main parts:

- a machine unit, comprising at least one machine body mounted on which are one or more delivery nozzles and, where required, also the control system for operating the device;

- at least one electrical power-supply means for supply of said device, said supply means being mounted on said machine unit and in turn comprising one or more batteries, preferably but not exclusively of the rechargeable type, and/or a means for connection to the power mains supply;

- at least one pump unit, in turn comprising one or more pumps, at least one first connection of said pumps to at least one tank for containing the biological pesticide liquid, at least one duct for carrying the liquid from said pump to said machine unit, and means for connection of said duct to said delivery nozzle;

- at least one valve assembly, in turn comprising one or more solenoid valves, at least one first connection for connecting said solenoid valve to one or more canisters for containing gas in the liquid state, at least one duct for carrying the gas from said solenoid valve to said machine unit, and means for connection of said duct to said delivery nozzle; and

- at least one electrical supply cable for supply of said solenoid valve and said pump, said supply cable being connected to said machine unit, where the control devices for control of the solenoid valve and of the pump are purposely installed.

Said ducts are preferably made of RILSAN or some other similar material of any length, preferably, but not exclusively, having an internal diameter of the section of passage of 1.5 mm.

Said means for connection of said ducts to said delivery nozzle comprise at least one fitting mounted on said machine body.

Said delivery nozzle comprises a substantially elongated body with an axial through hole, which includes at least one first segment of the axial hole that is preferably threaded for mounting at least one quick fitting for connection with said inner duct, and a second segment that starts from the end of the first segment and reaches the outlet port on the opposite end, preferably having a diameter of 1.0 mm.

Said through hole is used for passage of the gas.

Present on the first end are another two symmetrical holes, said holes not being axial and having a first segment preferably threaded for mounting at least one quick fitting, and a second segment that extends from the end of the first segment until it crosses the first through hole.

Said holes are used for the passage of the biological pesticide liquid.

In the case where said supply means comprise a plug for connection to the power mains supply, for example at 220 V, said supply means also comprise at least one transformer.

Said system can be installed on different machine bodies, according to the type of use, the main of which are listed below.

- Sprinkler, see Figure 3: said machine body is of a portable type, provided with a manual pushbutton for driving the combined jet of biological pesticide liquid and gas in the liquid state. It is moreover envisaged that said delivery nozzle is mounted on said machine body. Said pump unit and said solenoid-valve assembly are located in a sealed container to prevent entry of undesirable substances; said container is connected to: the canister, the container of biological pesticide liquid, and said sprinkler.

- Vertical atomizer, see Figure 4: said machine body is of the type that can be installed on board agricultural machinery and equipment. It is equipped with one or more delivery nozzles, applied on two vertical bars of variable length. To drive the jet of biological pesticide liquid and gas in the liquid state a control panel is provided separate from the bars. Said pump unit and said solenoid-valve assembly are located in a sealed container to prevent entry of undesirable substances; said container is connected to: one or more canisters, the container of biological pesticide liquid, and said vertical bars provided with one or more delivery nozzles.

- Horizontal atomizer, see Figure 5; said machine body is of the type that can be installed on board agricultural machinery and equipment. It is equipped with one or more delivery nozzles, applied on two horizontal bars of variable length. To drive the jet of biological pesticide liquid and gas in the liquid state a control panel is provided separate from the bars. Said pump unit and said solenoid-valve assembly are located in a sealed container to prevent entry of undesirable substances; said container is connected to: one or more canisters, the container of biological pesticide liquid, and said horizontal bars provided with one or more nozzles.

- Cannon atomizer, see Figure 6: said machine body is of the type that can be installed on board agricultural machinery and equipment. It is equipped with one or more nozzles, applied on a cannon with variable inclination. To drive the jet of biological pesticide liquid and gas in the liquid state a control panel is provided integrated in the machine body. Said pump unit and said solenoid-valve assembly are located in a sealed container to prevent entry of undesirable substances; said container is connected to: one or more canisters, the container of biological pesticide liquid, and said cannon provided with one or more nozzles.

- Insulating mobile structure, see Figure 7: said machine body is of the mobile type that can be installed around the plant to be treated and is totally sealed. It is equipped with one or more nozzles, applied to said insulating mobile structure. Said structure is made of insulating material for maintaining the temperature of the environment within said structure below -10°C.

Brief description of the drawings

The features of the new instantaneous system for mixing in combination carbon dioxide or other gases in the liquid state and any biological liquid in order to cleanse and carry out biopesticide treatments to eliminate any type of mite, bacterium, fungus, and harmful insect will emerge more clearly from the ensuing description with reference to the annexed plates of drawings, which are provided by way of non-limiting example and in which:

- Figure 1 represents schematically the new instantaneous system for mixing in combination carbon dioxide or other gases in the liquid state and any biological liquid, in order to cleanse and carry out biopesticide treatments to eliminate any type of mite, bacterium, fungus, and harmful insect;

- Figure 2 represents the delivery nozzle in a three-dimensional view;

- Figures 2a and 2b represent, respectively, in a three-dimensional view and in a cross-sectional view, the first body of the delivery nozzle;

- Figure 2c and 2d represent, respectively, in a three-dimensional view and in a cross-sectional view, the second body of the delivery nozzle;

- Figure 3 is a schematic representation of the new system installed on the sprinkler machine body; - Figure 4 is a schematic representation of the new system installed on the vertical-atomizer machine body;

- Figure 5 is a schematic representation of the new system installed on the horizontal- atomizer machine body;

- Figure 6 is a schematic representation of the new system installed on the cannon-atomizer machine body, provided with tiltable head;

- Figure 7 is a schematic representation of the new system installed on the sealed mobile structure;

- Figure 8, which is in part similar to Figure 7, is a schematic illustration of a preferred embodiment of a system of a treatment chamber according to the invention that houses a treatment system once again according to the invention,

- Figure 9 and Figure 10 are views similar to that of Figure 8, and represent characteristic dimensions and sections of the treatment device of Figure 8;

- Figures 11 to 19 illustrate the structure and features of the treatment system for the various sections of the treatment device according to the invention;

- Figure 20 provides a schematic summary of the information referred to in Figures 11 to 19,

- Figures 21 A and 2 IB, which can be put together to define a single figure, Figure 21, are schematic illustrations of the equipment associated to the treatment device according to the invention; and

- Figure 22 is a schematic illustration of the treatment device according to the invention, as illustrated, for example, in Figures 9 to 21, during treatment of a plant.

Detailed description of embodiments of the invention

The new instantaneous system for mixing in combination carbon dioxide or other gases in the liquid state with any biological liquid, in order to cleanse and carry out biopesticide treatments to eliminate any type of mite, bacterium, fungus, and harmful insect, comprises, in its main parts, a machine unit (Dl), a pump unit (D2), and a valve assembly (D3).

Said machine unit (Dl) in turn comprises at least one machine body (12), a structure, which may in turn be mobile or else fixed, for installing at least one or more delivery nozzles (11), and the control devices for operating the device.

Said machine unit (Dl) also comprises at least one inner duct (71) for carrying the gas and liquid from connection means (72) to said delivery nozzle (11).

Said machine unit (Dl) also comprises at least one power-supply means (9), which may in turn comprise a normal mains-supply socket (74), with suitable transformer (73), and/or one or more batteries (8), preferably but not exclusively of the rechargeable type.

Said pump unit (D2) in turn comprises one or more pumps (6), at least one container of liquid (5), at least one duct for carrying the liquid (13) from said container (5) to said pump (6), at least one duct for carrying the liquid (7) from said pump (6) to said machine unit (Dl), and fittings (72) for connection of said duct (7) to said machine body (12).

Said pump (6) is, in turn, supplied by means of at least one electrical supply cable (4) connected to said machine body (12) and to said power-supply means (9), which in turn may comprise a normal mains-supply socket (74), with suitable transformer (73), and/or one or more batteries (8), preferably but not exclusively of the rechargeable type.

Said valve assembly (D3) in turn comprises one or more solenoid valves (2), one or more canisters for containing the gas in the liquid state (1), at least one duct (3) for carrying the gas from said solenoid valve (2) to said machine unit (Dl), and fittings (72) for connection of said duct (3) to said machine body (12).

Said solenoid valve (2) is connected to said canister (1) via standard attachments.

Said solenoid valve (2) is, in turn, supplied by means of at least one electrical supply cable (4) connected to said machine body (12) and to said power- supply means (9), which in turn may comprise a normal mains-supply socket (74), with suitable transformer (73), and/or one or more batteries (8), preferably but not exclusively of the rechargeable type.

Said valve assembly (D3) may also comprise a union tee installed on the outlet of said solenoid valve (2); said union tee is provided with two outlets: the first outlet is connected to said duct for carrying the gas (3), and the second outlet is connected to a pipe for carrying the gas (15); said pipe is connected to the container of liquid (5) via a fitting (72). Said union tee (14) is not mandatory, but is necessary for keeping the liquid substance mixed.

Said connection means (70) for connection of the ducts for the gas (3) and for the liquid (7) to said delivery nozzle (11) comprise at least one fitting (72) mounted on said machine body (6), for quick connection of said ducts for the gas (3) and for the liquid (7), and of at least one further inner duct (16), for the liquid and for the gas, to said machine body (12) and are, in turn, connected to said delivery nozzle (11).

Said delivery nozzles (11) comprise, in turn, two substantially elongated bodies: the first elongated body (21) comprises an axial through hole (22), comprising at least one first segment (24), which starts from the outlet port (26) of the nozzle (5) itself. On the side of the end (25) opposite to said outlet port (26), said axial hole (22) is preferably internally threaded (23) for mounting at least one quick fitting (72) for connection with said inner duct (16).

On the side of the end (25) opposite to said outlet port (26), said body is preferably externally threaded for installation on the second elongated body (27) of said delivery nozzle (11).

Said second elongated body (27) comprises at least three holes: a first axial through hole (32), comprising at least one first threaded segment (34) for enabling mounting of the first body (21) of said delivery nozzle (11); two non-through holes (31), for the passage of the liquid substance, which terminate in the lateral outlet port (29) and in the central outlet port (30); said two holes (31) in the first segment on the opposite side with respect to the outlet port are preferably internally threaded (33) for installation of at least one quick fitting (72) for connection with said inner duct (16).

On the side of the end (28) opposite to said outlet port (30), said body is preferably externally threaded for installation on the machine body (12).

It may moreover be envisaged that said delivery nozzles (11) are mounted on said machine body (12) in a removable or extractable way, maintaining the connection by means of said inner duct (82).

The above is a schematic description sufficient for the person skilled in the branch to implement the invention. Consequently, in the concrete application, variations may be made, without thereby departing from the substance of the inventive idea.

Consequently, with reference to the foregoing description and to the attached plates of drawings, the ensuing claims are provided

It may also be envisaged that said system is applied to an insulating and completely sealed mobile structure to be applied on the plant for keeping the temperature of the environment within the structure below -10°C. Said mobile structure is made of insulating material for keeping the temperature below -10°C. With reference to Figure 8, a preferred embodiment of a treatment device according to the invention is designated by the reference number 100.

The treatment device 100 according to the invention is configured as a mobile treatment chamber that can be obtained in various ways, for example, in the form of a treatment bell, as is the case of the embodiment of Figure 8, in the form of containers or pavilions, or else in the form of bags that can be positioned over the plant to wrap round it or wrap round part of it.

The treatment device 100 (sometimes referred to also as bell 100) has a vertical axis Z100 and comprises a casing 102 defining a treatment volume V, a treatment-supply unit 104, and preferably one or more access openings 106, which can be opened and closed (preferably hermetically) to enable access for an operator and for carrying out maintenance operations. In the case in point, a single access opening 106 is provided closed by means of a manually operated or automatic door D106. The door D106 is hinged about an axis g106 parallel to the surface of the casing 102 and comprises two fastening handles HI 06.

Obviously possible are other solutions such as hermetic roller shutters, sliding or folding doors, sliding gates, etc.

With reference to Figure 9, the casing 102 of the bell 100 is preferably understood for treatment of plant organisms such as olive plants ( Olea europaea ) affected by the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa. The above pre- arrangement is reflected in the shape and structure of the bell 100, in particular in the choice of some reference sections for installation of as many assemblies for administration of the treatment agent, the structure of which will be described in detail hereinafter.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated herein, without this implying a limitation whatsoever for the purposes of the present description and of the present invention in general, the casing 102 has a substantially fmstoconical shape with double taper and comprises four reference diameters. The reference diameters are designated in Figure 9 by the references, starting from top, D01, D02, D03, D04, where the diameters are understood as being measured in planes perpendicular to the vertical axis Z 100 of the bell 100 itself. The reference values for the diameters D01, D02, D03, and D04 are contained in the following ranges, with indication of a preferential value:

- diameter D01: 450 mm - 650 mm; preferential value: 580 mm (example of Figure 9); - diameter D02: 2000 mm - 2500 mm, preferential value: 2250 mm

(example of Figure 9);

- diameter D03: 2000 mm - 2600 mm, preferential value: 2350 mm

(example of Figure 9);

- diameter D04: 2200 mm - 2800 mm, preferential value: 2470 mm

(example of Figure 9).

It is then possible to identify two characteristic heights for the bell 100, which correspond, one to a total height H100 comprised between 3500 mm and 5500 mm, with preferential value of 4165 mm, and the other to a height FF corresponding to the vertical distance between the diameters D02 and D01, with a value preferably comprised between 800 mm and 1100 mm, with preferential value of 940 mm.

With reference to Figure 10, in the casing 102 of the bell 100 there may be identified four reference sections SI, S2, S3, S4 (from top to bottom) where a respective plurality of nozzle kits that form part of the unit for administering treatment agent is installed.

Within the scope of the wording “treatment agent” it is intended to encompass both a liquefied gaseous treatment agent (which, according to the present invention, is used for thermal abatement of the plant organism) and a treatment agent corresponding to a mixture of liquefied gaseous treatment agent and biological liquid or just biological liquid.

As already described, preferentially the gas that can be used as liquefied gaseous treatment agent is carbon dioxide, whereas the biological liquid that can be used according to the invention is a biopesticide chosen, for example, from Azadirachta indica and acetic acid.

It should be noted that the position of the sections S1-S4 is not necessarily chosen as coinciding with the notable diameters of the bell 100. There may be a link, but the position may also be chosen on the basis of considerations mainly linked to the features of the plant to be treated.

It is moreover possible to envisage a mixed criterion of choice, i.e., with some sections positioned according to the features of the plant, and other sections positioned according to the location of the notable diameters.

With reference to Figures 10, 11, and 12, the section SI is set in a position corresponding to the diameter D02 and has, as likewise preferably the entire casing 102 irrespective of the section considered, a double wall. In particular, the casing 102 comprises an outer wall 108, preferably made of fiberglass, and an inner wall 110 made of thermally insulating material.

As visible in Figure 12, which corresponds to a cross-sectional view of the bell 100 at the section SI, the insulating material 110 is arranged along the entire circumference of the bell 100 so as to limit or eliminate the thermal exchanges with the external environment. This has to do with the features of the treatment method that will be described hereinafter.

Preferential values for the total wall thickness of the casing 102 in the section SI range from 40 to 70 mm, preferably 55 mm, of which 10 mm correspond to the thickness S108 of the outer wall 108, and 40 mm to the thickness S 110 of the inner wall 110.

Preferential ranges for the wall thicknesses correspond to 10-30 mm for the thickness S 108, and 20- 0 mm for the thickness S 110.

With reference to Figure 13, provided at the first section SI is a nozzle kit that comprises a first distribution of nozzles 112 for administering treatment agent.

In the ensuing description, the reference number of each nozzle is associated, where necessary, to a literal notation that identifies the type of treatment agent administered by the nozzle itself within the treatment volume V of the casing 102.

In particular, the reference g that follows the number that designates a nozzle is meant to indicate that the nozzle is configured for administration of just the liquefied gaseous treatment agent, whereas the reference MX that follows the number that designates a nozzle is meant to indicate that the nozzle is configured for administration of a mixture of treatment agents, specifically a mixture of liquefied gaseous treatment agent and of liquid treatment agent, specifically a biological liquid (for example, a biological pesticide as indicated above). For greater readiness of reading, the nozzles are coded also via the colour by associating a white colouring to the nozzles of type g and a black colouring to the nozzles of type MX.

Located at the section SI, in the preferred embodiment illustrated herein, are only nozzles 112_G, regularly coloured white. The nozzles 112_G of the first distribution are arranged about the axis Z100. In the preferred embodiment illustrated herein, the nozzles 112 are three in number set at equal angular distances apart about the axis Z100, i.e., spaced apart by an angle of 120°. Obviously possible are other configurations according to the features of the plant, for example the density of the foliage at the section S 1.

It is moreover possible to have a single nozzle in the section SI for administration of the liquefied gaseous treatment agent, even though this might not constitute a preferred option given the structure and dimensions of the plant.

With reference to Figures 14 and 15, the features of the section S2, in particular the nozzle kits of the section itself, will now be described.

As mentioned previously, the structure of the wall of the casing 102 at the section S2 is identical to that of the section SI; a double wall 108, 110 is hence present.

With reference to Figure 15, the nozzle kit of the second section S2 comprises a second distribution of nozzles 114_G for delivering a liquefied gaseous treatment agent, and a third distribution of nozzles for delivering a mixture of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent and of a liquid treatment agent 114_MX. The nozzles of the second distribution and the nozzles of the third distribution are arranged about the vertical axis Z100 of the bell 100 and alternate with one another about said vertical axis (Z100).

In the preferred embodiment illustrated in the figures, the second and third distributions occupy the vertices of a regular hexagon, and are hence set at equal angular distances apart about the axis Z100. Moreover, the nozzles of each distribution are angularly staggered by 120° with respect to one another, so that the two distributions are themselves arranged alternating (with intervals of 60°) in such a way that along the circumference associated to the section S2 there is an alternation of a nozzle 114_MX and of a nozzle 114_G.

Of course, other arrangements are possible (also with irregular positioning of the nozzles), preferentially always alternating, with a different number of nozzles. It is also possible to have a distribution of just two nozzles, a nozzle 114_MX and one nozzle 114_G, arranged in diametrally opposite positions.

With reference to Figures 16 and 17, the features of the section S3, in particular the nozzle kits of the section itself, will now be described.

As mentioned previously, the structure of the wall of the casing 102 in the section S3 is identical to that of the section SI; a double wall 108, 110 is hence present.

The nozzle kit of the third section S3 comprises a fourth distribution of nozzles 116_G for delivering a liquefied gaseous treatment agent, and a fifth distribution of nozzles for delivering a mixture of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent and of a liquid treatment agent 116_MX. The nozzles of the fourth distribution and the nozzles of the fifth distribution are arranged about the vertical axis Z100 of the treatment device 100 and alternate with one another about the vertical axis Z100.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated in the figures, the fourth and fifth distributions occupy the vertices of a regular hexagon, and are hence set at equal angular distances apart about the axis Z100. In addition, the nozzles of each distribution are angularly staggered by 120°, so that the two distributions are themselves arranged alternating (with intervals of 60°) in such a way that along the circumference associated to the section S3 there is an alternation of a nozzle 116_MX and a nozzle 116_G.

Of course, other arrangements are possible (also with irregular positioning of the nozzles), preferentially always alternating, with a different number of nozzles. It is also possible to have a distribution of just two nozzles, a nozzle 116_MX and a nozzle 116_G, arranged in diametrally opposite positions.

With reference to Figures 18 and 19, the features of the section S4, in particular the nozzle kits of the section itself, will be now described.

As mentioned previously also as regards the sections S2 and S3, the structure of the wall of the casing 102 in the section S4 is identical to that of the section SI; a double wall 108, 110 is hence present.

The nozzle kit of the fourth section S4 comprises a sixth distribution of nozzles 118_G for delivering a liquefied gaseous treatment agent, and a seventh distribution of nozzles for delivering a mixture of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent and of a liquid treatment agent 118_MX. The nozzles of the sixth distribution and the nozzles of the seventh distribution are arranged about the vertical axis Z100 of said treatment device 100 and alternate with one another about the vertical axis Z100.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated in the figures, the sixth and seventh distributions occupy the vertices of a regular hexagon, and are hence set at equal angular distances apart about the axis Z100. Moreover, the nozzles of each distribution are angularly staggered by 120°, so that the two distributions are themselves arranged alternating (with intervals of 60°) in such a way that along the circumference associated to the section S4 there is an alternation of a nozzle 118 MX and a nozzle 118 G. Of course, other arrangements are possible (also with irregular positioning of the nozzles), preferentially always alternating, with a different number of nozzles. It is also possible to have a distribution of just two nozzles, a nozzle 118_MX and a nozzle 118_G, arranged in diametrally opposite positions.

In the bell 100 the nozzles of each of said first distribution, second distribution, third distribution, fourth distribution, fifth distribution, sixth distribution, and seventh distribution are fixed on an inner surface of the casing 102 facing the treatment volume V. Moreover possible are external fixing solutions with penetration of the nozzles within the volume V, but in general these are not considered preferred since, especially in the case of embodiments where the casing 102 is with double wall, they would constitute a thermal bridge with the external environment. With reference to Figure 20, this illustrates an overall diagram summarizing the position of the distributions of nozzles 112, 114, 116, 118 in height and along the circumferences of the sections S1-S4 of the bell 100. It should be noted how the distributions of nozzles 114, 116, and 118 are not only constituted by nozzles alternating according to the type of treatment agent delivered, but are themselves angularly staggered along the vertical axis Z100 of the bell 100. This means that the nozzles of each section occupy the same circumferential position with respect to the nozzles of the adjacent distributions (except for the distribution 112), but proceeding along a generatrix of the frustoconical shape of the bell 100 (or, equivalently, proceeding along the axis Z100) there is always an alternation of a nozzle of type MX and of a nozzle of type G.

Figure 20 moreover illustrates another five reference dimensions of the bell 100, which consist in the vertical distance between the sections S1-S4 and the vertical distance of the latter from the ground GND. The dimensions in question are described in the following list:

- Dl/2: vertical distance - measured in a direction parallel to the axis Z100

- between the sections SI and S2;

- D2/3: vertical distance - measured in a direction parallel to the axis Z100

- between the sections S2 and S3;

- D3/4: vertical distance - measured in a direction parallel to the axis Z100

- between the sections S3 and S4;

- D4/G: vertical distance - measured in a direction parallel to the axis Z100 - between the section S4 and ground GND (equivalently height of the section S4 from the ground); and

- DT/1: vertical distance - measured in a direction parallel to the axis Z100 - between a top T of the bell 100 (corresponding to the location of the diameter Dl) and the section SI.

With reference to Figures 21A and 21B, the system that enables supply of the nozzles 112, 114, 116, 118 within the bell 100 will now be described in detail. Figures 21 A and 2 IB constitute two portions of a single global figure, Figure 21, which is obtained by joining together the two plates of drawings 21 A and 2 IB at the interfaces A-J.

With reference to Figure 21 A, the treatment- supply unit 104 comprises a plurality of electrically operated valves denoted by the reference numbers VI, V2, V3, V4, V5, V6, V7 and a plurality of pump modules, designated by the reference numbers PI, P2, P3, each comprising a pump and an electrical motor that drives the pump in rotation.

The number of the valves VI- V7 (seven) and of the pump modules P1-P3 (three) may obviously vary according to the requirements.

The intake ports of the pumps of the modules P1-P3 are hydraulically connected to a liquid-inlet port L_IN (for example, via connection to a single header) and the respective delivery ports give out at the interfaces H, I, J. Likewise, the valves VI -V7 have an inlet port hydraulically connected to a gas- inlet port G_IN (for example, via connection to a single header), and the respective outlet ports are connected to distribution lines that lead to the interfaces A-G.

Preferentially, the port G_IN is supplied by a pressurized tank of liquefied gaseous treatment agent (for example CO2), while the port L_IN is connected to a tank of liquid treatment agent.

With reference, in particular, to the delivery ports of the pump modules P1-P3, they are individually connected to respective distributing valves 120H, 1201, 120J, each having a single inlet port and, in the embodiment considered, three outlet ports. The inlet port collects the gas coming from the pumps of the modules P1-P3, and is consequently in fluid communication with a corresponding one of said valves. As has been said, the association can be easily reconstructed by connecting the identical interfaces H-J of each figure, but for convenience the letter alongside the reference 120 associates each distributing valve to the respective supply line. In greater detail: - the delivery of the pump module PI is connected to and supplies the distributing valve 120J;

- the delivery of the pump module P2 is connected to and supplies the distributing valve 1201; and

- the delivery of the pump module P3 is connected to and supplies the distributing valve 120H.

The three outlet ports of each distributing valve 120 supply sets of three nozzles MX.

In detail, and with reference to the specific example illustrated in the figures:

- the valve 120H supplies the three nozzles 114_MX of the section S2;

- the valve 1201 supplies the three nozzles 116_MX of the section S3; and

- the valve 120J supplies the three nozzles 118_MX of the section S4.

With reference now to the outlet ports of the valves V1-V7, they are individually connected to respective distributing valves 122A, 122B, 122C, 122D, 122E, 122F, 122G, each having a single inlet port and, in the embodiment considered, three outlet ports. The inlet port collects the gas coming from the valves V1-V7, and is consequently in fluid communication with a corresponding one of said valves. As has been said, the association can be easily reconstructed by connecting the identical interfaces A-H of each figure, but for convenience the letter alongside the reference 122 associates each distributing valve to the respective supply line. In greater detail:

- the valve VI is connected to and supplies the distributing valve 122A;

- the valve V2 is connected to and supplies the distributing valve 122B;

- the valve V3 is connected to and supplies the distributing valve 122C;

- the valve V4 is connected to and supplies the distributing valve 122D;

- the valve V5 is connected to and supplies the distributing valve 122E;

- the valve V6 is connected to and supplies the distributing valve 122F; and

- the valve VI is connected to and supplies the distributing valve 122G.

The three outlet ports of each distributing valve supply sets of three nozzles, comprising, alternatively, two nozzles MX and one nozzle g or else one nozzle MX and two nozzles G, except for the valve 122A, which supplies the three nozzles 112_G.

It should be noted in this regard that each nozzle MX comprises two intake ports in so far as it is configured for receiving, in use, both the gas supplied by the solenoid valves V1-V7 and the biological liquid supplied by the pumps P1-P3. The nozzles of type g include, instead, a single inlet port in so far as they deliver only a gaseous flow.

- the valve 122A supplies the nozzles 112_G of the section SI;

- the valve 122B supplies two nozzles 114_G and one nozzle 114_MX (also supplied by the valve 120H) of the section S2;

- the valve 122C supplies two nozzles 114_MX (also supplied by the valve 120H) and one nozzle 114_G of the section S2;

- the valve 122D supplies two nozzles 116_MX (also supplied by the valve 1201) and one nozzle 116_G of the section S3;

- the valve 122E supplies two nozzles 116_G and one nozzle 116_MX (also supplied by the valve 1201) of the section S3;

- the valve 122F supplies two nozzles 118_G (also supplied by the valve 120J) and one nozzle 118_MX of the section S4; and

- the valve 122G supplies two nozzles 118_MX (also supplied by the valve 120J) and one nozzle 118_G of the section S4.

It should be noted that the invention can be implemented by means of a treatment-supply unit 104 not strictly made as described above. In general, the treatment-supply unit 104 may comprise at least one valve, preferably with electrical actuation, having an inlet port in fluid communication with the port for inlet of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent G_IN and an outlet port in fluid communication with at least one nozzle for delivering a liquefied gaseous treatment agent. Moreover, the treatment- supply unit 104 may, in general, comprise at least one pump module PI, P2, P3 comprising a pump and a motor for driving the pump.

Once again generally, the pump of each pump module has an intake port in fluid communication with an port for inlet of the liquid treatment agent L_IN, and a delivery port in fluid communication with a nozzle for delivering a mixture of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent and of a liquid treatment agent. The nozzle for delivering a mixture of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent and of a liquid treatment agent is moreover in fluid communication with the outlet port of the at least one valve. Finally, described hereinafter with reference to Figure 22 is a sensor equipment that equips the bell 100 during the treatment of a plant of Olea europaea (olive tree) OE for eradicating the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa.

The bell 100 (or in general the insulating mobile structure according to the invention) is installed so as to encapsulate the plant OE and contain it entirely within it.

Positioned within the bell OE are various temperature sensors for monitoring the temperature of some critical areas of the plant. The sensor equipment of the preferred embodiment illustrated herein comprises a sensor for measuring the temperature of the soil 124, a sensor for measuring the temperature of a xylematic vessel XV designated by the reference number 126, which is inserted into the xylematic vessel of the olive tree OE, a sensor for measuring the temperature of the trunk 128, and three sensors for measuring the temperature of the branches 130, 132, 134, which are inserted into as many branches of the plant.

Moreover arranged on the bell 100 are a bottom temperature sensor 136, a median temperature sensor 138, and a top temperature sensor 140, which are configured for detecting the temperature in the bottom area (in the proximity of the ground GND), in the median area (indicatively between the sections S3 and S2) and in the top area (indicatively between the section SI and the top T), respective, of the bell 100.

Each of the sensors 124-140 is operatively connected to a control and data- processing unit 142, which records the data coming from the sensors for administration of the treatment against the bacterium. For this purpose, the unit 142 may also be used for controlling the treatment- supply unit 104, in particular for determining times and, where envisaged, profiles of opening of each valve VI- V7, as well as of the valves 122, 124, in order to distribute the treatment agent - whatever this may be - on the plant undergoing treatment in an optimal way.

An embodiment will now be described by way of example of a method for treating infections caused by phytopathogenic organisms in plant organisms via the use of the insulating mobile structure, in particular the bell 100, forming the subject of the present invention.

The method for treating infections caused by phytopathogenic organisms comprises the steps that are described in detail in what follows.

A first step comprises installing the insulating mobile structure 100 on the ground GND so as to encapsulate the plant organism that is to undergo treatment (in the embodiment considered, an olive plant OE). This may be obtained, in the case of the bell 100, with the aid of a crane that lifts the bell 100 and releases it around the plant OE.

A second step comprises administering at least one treatment agent within the insulating mobile structure by means of one or more delivery nozzles arranged in the insulating mobile structure to obtain a reduction in temperature within at least one xylematic vessel XV of the plant organism. According to the invention, the treatment agent may comprise just one liquefied gaseous treatment agent diffused through the nozzles 112_G, 114_G, 116_G, 118_G (carbon dioxide supplied in the liquid phase to the nozzles in question, then freezes into dry ice - solid carbon dioxide - and gaseous carbon dioxide at the moment of injection by the nozzles themselves), or else a combination of gas and biological liquid diffused jointly by the nozzles 112_G, 114_G, 116_G, 118_G, and 112_MX, 114_MX, 116_MX, 118_MX. The liquefied gaseous treatment agent preferably comprises carbon dioxide, while the biological liquid may comprise, for example, Azadirachta indica and/or acetic acid.

A third step comprises monitoring the reduction in temperature within a xylematic vessel XV of the plant (in general, of the plant organism). Monitoring may be carried out, with reference to Figure 22, via the sensor 128. It should moreover be noted that it is possible to increase the number of xylematic vessels monitored in temperature, envisaging for each of them a respective sensor 128.

A fourth step, which may overlap at least in part the third step, comprises administering said at least one liquefied gaseous treatment agent, preferably carbon dioxide, within the treatment device 100 until, within the one or more xylematic vessels of the plant (for example, the olive tree OE), a temperature comprised in a range from +12°C to -70°C is reached, and maintaining the temperature for a period of time comprised between 1 minute and 100 minutes. Maintaining the temperature comprises both maintaining the temperature reached at a constant value within the range +12°C to -70°C (for example, the temperature reached at the end of administration of the liquefied gaseous treatment agent) and maintaining the temperature within the range itself, without, however, keeping it strictly constant. Hence, in general, the method envisages maintaining the temperature within the range +12°C to -70°C for a period of time comprised between 1 minute and 100 minutes.

Optionally, the method may comprise, prior to the first step, a step of pre- treatment of the plant, in which, prior to installation of the insulating mobile structure 100 on the ground GND, there may be carried out one or more of the following operations:

- pruning the plant organism that is to undergo treatment;

- washing said plant organism with a biological liquid, preferably comprising at least one between Azadirachta indica and acetic acid; and

- sprinkling at least part of the root system of said plant organism by administration of at least one biopesticide liquid, preferably comprising at least one between Azadirachta indica and acetic acid.

The treatment method according to the invention enables treatment of infections caused, for example, by bacteria, fungi, insects, and mites.

In the preferred embodiment, the method is implemented - via the bell 100 - on olive plants ( Olea europea ) OE affected by bacterial infections caused by the microorganism Xylella fastidiosa.

Olive trees are the main plant species of agricultural interest affected by the above microorganism in Europe, even though Xylella fastidiosa is a phytopathogenous bacterium capable of colonizing also other types of plants, amongst which vines, peach trees, almond trees, etc.

Xylella fastidiosa colonizes the xylematic vessels (or xylem) of the host plants, and its development appears to be conditioned by the temperature: values comprised between 25°C and 32°C are believed to be favourable to a development of the infection; instead, temperatures below +12,+17°C and higher than +34°C could adversely affect survival of the bacterium in the host plants.

Experimental test conducted by the present Inventors have shown that the use of the bell 100 has made it possible to affect drastically the bacterial load present in the xylematic vessels XV of olive tree colonized by the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa.

For the study, olive trees similar in dimensions and visibly diseased were selected, which had dry leaves and branches.

The specific embodiment of the method that made it possible of obtain optimal results in terms of abatement of the bacterial load consists in the steps listed below.

i) Pruning of the plant to be treated. The plant was cleaned of the foliage until the branching of the primary branches were reached, keeping the secondary branches only if not completely dry and in any case above the V branching with the vigorous branches. Sample leaves of the green foliage were preserved for an analysis before and after the treatment; in particular, three green branches were preserved. The plant was cleaned of the shoots that came out from the ground, the root, and the trunk.

ii) Antibacterial washing. The pruned plant was treated with the biological liquid comprising Azadirachta indica and acetic acid; in particular, the individual branches and also the soil around the plant OE were treated.

iii) Sprinkling of biological antibacterial product at the root. The biological product comprising Azadirachta indica and acid acetic was evenly distributed over the entire root system.

iv) Encapsulation of the plant to be treated. The bell 100 was installed on the ground GND to encapsulate the plant OE to be treated; transformation of the gas, preferably carbon dioxide, from the liquid state to the gaseous state, made it possible to obtain micro-particles of dry ice with small grain size at extremely low temperatures (temperature of expansion of carbon dioxide: approximately -78.5°C), which, combined with the particles of the biological pesticide liquid comprising Azadirachta indica and acid acetic, reached through the thrust of the gas that had not transformed into micro-particles, through the nozzles 112, 114, 116, 118, the parts less exposed of the plant and the more hidden parasitic colonies, altering the vital processes of the parasite.

v) In order to obtain abatement of the bacterial load, at the same preserving the vital functions of the plant, the temperature of the xylematic vessels XV of the plant was brought to a value comprised between +12°C and -70°C, for a period of time comprised between 1 minute and 100 minutes. It should be noted, in this regard, that the presence of insulating material in the wall thickness increases the effectiveness of the thermal abatement of the xylematic vessels, in so far as the thermal dispersions towards the external environment are limited or practically eliminated. The temperature of the xylematic vessel XV was detected thanks to the sensor 128, whereas the sensors 126 and 130-134 detected the temperature in the trunk and in the branches of the plant OE, respectively.

vi) Removal of the bell 100. After removal of the bell 100, preferably insect nets were applied on the plant OE in order to protect it from harmful insects.

The analysis carried out on the treated plants OE showed an effective abatement of the bacterial load present in the xylematic vessels XV thereof. Tests for verifying effectiveness of the treatment were conducted by analysis with serological technique (ELISA).

The serological methods are based on the antigenic properties of the surface proteins of the bacterial cell. Amongst these, the immunoenzimatic assay ELISA is the one most widely used. For each sample, the extraction is to be carried out using at least 0.5-0.8 g of tissue, obtained from 5-10 leaves (according to the size and consistency of the leaves). The leaves selected for the extraction must be representative of the entire sample, giving priority to the symptomatic leaves, whenever present. The procedure comprised the use of a commercial ELISA kit for serological detection of Xylella fastidiosa (Loewe Biochemica GmbH, Cat. N. 07119S). Preliminary validation tests, via ring test, have in fact demonstrated the reliability of the above method in the diagnosis of the strain CoDiRo of Xylella fastidiosa in olive tissues. Each assay included positive and negative controls, represented by plant extracts of infected and healthy plants, respectively.

The ELISA protocol used (in compliance with the protocol EPPO/OEPP 7/24(4) - Xylella fastidiosa ) comprised the steps of the procedure described hereinafter.

Sensitization: dilute the antibodies (IgG) specific for Xylella fastidiosa in buffer solution in a ratio 1:200 (e.g., 50 pi in 10 ml of buffer, or in the same ratio for other volumes) and distribute 100 or 200 mΐ in each well of the microplate. Cover the plate and set it in a damp chamber. Incubate the plate at 37°C for 4 hours.

Washings: wash four times with washing buffer.

Preparation of plant sample and incubation with antigen: homogenize the samples in extraction buffer (1:10 weight/volume). Weigh at least 0.5 g of petioles and base portions of the leaves, taking care to sterilize, between one sample and the other, the blade used for cutting them. Transfer the plant tissue into an envelope and add 5 ml of buffer; squeeze with a hammer and mince with a semiautomatic homogenizer (Homex, BIOREBA). Transfer 1 ml of plant juice in a vial and preserve it at +4°C up to the moment of use so as to favour precipitation of the vegetal residues. Dispense 100 or 200 mΐ of plant juice in each well of the ELISA plate. Cover the plate, put it in a damp chamber, and incubate it at +4°C overnight.

Washings: wash four times with washing buffer. Addition of conjugated antibodies to enzyme. Dilute the antibodies conjugated to alkaline phosphatase (anti-Xf-AP-IgG) in Conjugated Buffer Solution (1:200). Dispense 100 or 200 pi in each well of the ELISA plate. Cover the ELISA plate, put it in a damp chamber, and incubate it at 37°C for 4 hours.

Washings: wash four times with washing buffer.

Addition of substrate: dissolve paranitrophenyl phosphate (0.6-1 mg/ml) in buffer and dispense 100 or 200 or 200 mΐ in each well of the plate. Incubate at room temperature (18-25°C) for at least 2 hours until colour change (yellow) is noted. Read the ELISA plate at a wavelength of 405 nm after 60-120-180 minutes using a microplate reader. The enzymatic reaction may be blocked by the addition of 25 mΐ of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) 3M in each well of the ELISA plate.

The trees from which samples of leaves to be analysed were taken showed characteristic signs of the infection, i.e., few leaves remaining on the branches and absence of signs of sprouting. The leaves were hence collected from the plant; the mean values of absorbance obtained with the ELISA test were mean values obtained from extract of different leaves collected from one and the same tree.

The day after the samples were taken, the method according to the invention for treating the infection from Xylella fastidiosa was carried out. In the hours subsequent to treatment, with the same methodology leaves were taken that would constitute the post-treatment reference sample.

The ELISA test conducted as described demonstrated, for each test plate, identification of a threshold that defines the result as POSITIVE or NEGATIVE. This threshold is calculated starting from two positive controls and two negative controls.

For the first three plants, belonging to the one and the same test plate, the threshold was 0.056; higher values indicate a POSITIVE result (plant infected) and lower values indicate a NEGATIVE result (plant not infected).

Appearing in Table 1 below are the data obtained directly by the analyser:

Table 1 SAMPLE EADING ABSORBANCE POS/NEG

The first part of the table represents the part of preparation of the test; from an analysis of the positive controls (CP) and negative controls (CN) contained in each plate of the ELISA kit, the qualitative threshold may be inferred: in this case, it was 0.056.

Each sample represents the average obtained from an analysis of leaves collected from one and the same tree; two samples for each tree were analysed.

The samples denoted by the letter T indicate the samples of the treated plant (POST-TREATMENT STAGE). In Table 1, the above -threshold values are associated to the indication“POS” (positive); the below -threshold values are associated to the indication“NEG” (negative).

The preponderance of positive values in the pre-treatment stage and the preponderance of negative values in the post-treatment stage indicates that the method reduced considerably the bacterial load of Xylella fastidiosa within the xylem. The thermal stress applied by the system has a direct effectiveness on the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa.

Claims

1. A treatment device (100) for plant organisms affected by phytopathogenic agents, comprising:

- a casing (102) defining a treatment volume (V), configured for housing a plant organism to undergo treatment (OE); and

- a unit for administering treatment agents (112, 114, 116, 118), configured for delivering at least one treatment agent within said treatment volume (V).

2. The treatment device (100) according to Claim 1, further comprising a treatment-supply unit (104) configured for delivering said at least one treatment agent to said administering unit (112, 114, 116, 118).

3. The treatment device (100) according to Claim 1 or Claim 2, wherein said unit for administering treatment agent (112, 114, 116, 118) comprises at least one nozzle (112_G, 114_G, 116_G, 118_G) for delivering a liquefied gaseous treatment agent, in particular carbon dioxide.

4. The treatment device (100) according to Claim 3, wherein said unit for administering treatment agent (112, 114, 116, 118) further comprises at least one nozzle (114_MX, 116_MX, 118_MX) for delivering a mixture of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent and of a liquid treatment agent, in particular a biological liquid treatment agent.

5. The treatment device (100) according to Claim 4, wherein said treatment-supply unit comprises:

- at least one valve (VI, V2, V3, V4, V5, V6, V7), preferably with electrical actuation, having an inlet port in fluid communication with an inlet port for a liquefied gaseous treatment agent (G_IN) and an outlet port in fluid communication with said at least one nozzle (112_G, 114_G, 116_G, 118_G) configured for delivering a liquefied gaseous treatment agent;

- at least one pump module (PI, P2, P3) comprising a pump and a motor for actuation of said pump, the pump of each pump module (PI, P2, P3) having an intake port in fluid communication with an inlet port for a liquid treatment agent (L_IN), and a delivery port in fluid communication with a nozzle for delivering a mixture of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent and of a liquid treatment agent (114_MX, 116_MX, 118_MX), said one nozzle for delivering a mixture of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent and of a liquid treatment agent being moreover in fluid communication with the outlet port of said at least one valve (VI, V2, V3, V4, V5, V6, V7).

6. The treatment device (100) according to Claim 2or Claim 5, wherein said treatment-supply unit comprises:

- a plurality of valves (VI, V2, V3, V4, V5, V6, V7), preferably with electrical actuation, each having an inlet port and an outlet port, wherein the inlet port of each valve (VI, V2, V3, V4, V5, V6, V7) is in fluid communication with an inlet port for liquefied gaseous treatment agent (G_IN), and the outlet port of each valve (VI, V2, V3, V4, V5, V6, V7) is in fluid communication with an inlet port of a corresponding distributing valve for liquefied gaseous treatment agent (122A, 122B, 122C, 122D, 122E, 122F), each distributing valve for liquefied gaseous treatment agent (122A, 122B, 122C, 122D, 122E, 122F) having a plurality of outlet ports for liquefied gaseous treatment agent, each in fluid communication with a corresponding nozzle (112_G, 114_G, 116_G, 118_G) configured for delivering a liquefied gaseous treatment agent or with a corresponding nozzle (114_MX, 116_MX, 118_MX) for delivering a mixture of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent and of a liquid treatment agent; and

- a plurality of pump modules (PI, P2, P3), each comprising a pump and a motor for actuation of said pump, the pump of each pump module (PI, P2, P3) having an intake port in fluid communication with an inlet port for a liquid treatment agent (L_IN), and a delivery port in fluid communication with an inlet port of a corresponding distributing valve (120H, 1201, 120J) for liquid treatment agent, each distributing valve (120H, 1201, 120J) for liquid treatment agent having a plurality of outlet ports for liquid treatment agent, each in fluid communication with a corresponding nozzle (114_MX, 116_MX, 118_MX) for delivering a mixture of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent and of a liquid treatment agent.

7. The treatment device (100) according to any one of Claims 4 to 6, wherein said unit for administering treatment agent comprises a plurality of nozzle kits arranged at distinct sections (SI, S2, S3, S4) of said casing (102),

wherein each nozzle kit comprises at least one between said nozzle (112_G, 114_G, 116_G, 118_G) for delivering a liquefied gaseous treatment agent and said nozzle for delivering a mixture of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent and of a liquid treatment agent (114_MX, 116_MX, 118_MX).

8. The treatment device (100) according to Claim 7, wherein said casing (102) comprises a first section (SI), a second section (S2), a third section (S3), and a fourth section (S4), each comprising a respective nozzle kit, and wherein:

- the nozzle kit of the first section (SI) comprises a first distribution of nozzles (112_G) for delivering a liquefied gaseous treatment agent, preferably including three nozzles (112_G) for delivering a liquefied gaseous treatment agent, said first distribution of nozzles (112_G) for delivering a liquefied gaseous treatment agent being arranged about a vertical axis (Z100) of said treatment device (100);

- the nozzle kit of the second section (S2) comprises a second distribution of nozzles (114_G) for delivering a liquefied gaseous treatment agent, and a third distribution of nozzles (114_MX) for delivering a mixture of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent and of a liquid treatment agent, the nozzles of the second distribution and the nozzles of the third distribution being arranged about the vertical axis (Z100) of said treatment device (100) and alternating with one another about said vertical axis (Z100);

- the nozzle kit of the third section (S3) comprises a fourth distribution of nozzles (116_G) for delivering a liquefied gaseous treatment agent, and a fifth distribution of nozzles (116_MX) for delivering a mixture of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent and of a liquid treatment agent, the nozzles of the fourth distribution (116_G) and the nozzles of the fifth distribution (116_MX) being arranged about the vertical axis (Z100) of said treatment device (100) and alternating with one another about said vertical axis (Z100); and

- the nozzle kit of the fourth section (S4) comprises a sixth distribution of nozzles (118_G) for delivering a liquefied gaseous treatment agent, and a seventh distribution of nozzles (118_MX) for delivering a mixture of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent and of a liquid treatment agent, the nozzles of the sixth distribution (118_G) and the nozzles of the seventh distribution (118_MX) being arranged about the vertical axis (Z100) of said treatment device (100) and alternating with one another about said vertical axis (Z100).

9. The treatment device (100) according to Claim 8, wherein the nozzles of each of said first distribution (112_G), second distribution (114_G), third distribution (114_MX), fourth distribution (116_G), fifth distribution (116_MX), sixth distribution (118_G), and seventh distribution (118_MX) are arranged at equal angular distances apart about the vertical axis (Z100).

10. The device according to Claim 8 or Claim 9, wherein the nozzles of each of said first distribution (112_G), second distribution (114_G), third distribution (114_MX), fourth distribution (116_G), fifth distribution (116_MX), sixth distribution (118_G), and seventh distribution (118_MX) are fixed on an inner surface of said casing (102) facing the treatment volume (V).

11. The treatment device (100) according to Claim 9, wherein there is moreover, along said vertical axis (Z100), an alternation of a nozzle for delivering a liquefied gaseous treatment agent (112_G, 114_G, 116_G, 118_G) and of a nozzle for delivering a mixture of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent and of a liquid treatment agent (114_MX, 116_MX, 118_MX).

12. The treatment device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said casing (102) has a fmstoconical shape.

13. The treatment device (100) according to Claim 1 or Claim 12, wherein said casing (102) is a bell (100) configured for housing at least one plant organism (OE) completely inside it, said bell (100) being configured for resting on the ground (GND).

14. The treatment device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said casing (102) has a double wall including an outer wall (108) having a first wall thickness (S108) and an inner wall (110) having a second wall thickness (SI 10), said inner wall (110) being made of thermally insulating material.

15. A method for treating infections caused by phytopathogenic organisms in plant organisms, comprising:

- installing a treatment device (100) according to any one of Claims 1 to 14 so as to encapsulate at least in part, preferably integrally, the plant organism (OE) that is to undergo treatment;

- administering at least one treatment agent within the treatment device (100) by means of said unit for administering treatment agent (112, 114, 116, 118) to obtain a reduction in temperature within at least one xylematic vessel (XV) of said plant organism, wherein said treatment agent is a liquefied gaseous treatment agent, preferably carbon dioxide;

- monitoring the reduction in temperature within said at least one xylematic vessel (XV) of said plant organism;

- administering said at least one liquefied gaseous treatment agent, preferably carbon dioxide, within the treatment device (100) until, within said at least one xylematic vessel (XV), a temperature is reached comprised in a range from +12°C to -70°C, and maintaining said temperature within said range for a period of time comprised between 1 minute and 100 minutes.

16. The method according to Claim 15, wherein said treatment agent may further comprise a liquid treatment agent, in particular a biological liquid treatment agent comprising at least one between Azadirachta indica and acetic acid.

17. The method according to Claim 15 or Claim 16, wherein said treatment agent comprises a mixture of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent, preferably carbon dioxide, and of a biological liquid, said combination being diffused by said nozzles for delivering a mixture of a liquefied gaseous treatment agent and of a liquid treatment agent (114_MX, 116_MX, 118_MX) of the nozzle kits of each of said second section (S2), third section (S3), and fourth section (S4).

18. The method according to any one of Claims 15 to 17, wherein said installing comprises applying said treatment device (100) to the ground (GND) so as to house the entire plant organism (OE) within said treatment volume (V).

19. The method according to any one of Claims 15 to 18, wherein, prior to the step of installing said treatment device (100), the method further comprises at least one step from among:

- pruning said plant organism (OE);

- washing said plant organism (OE) with a biological liquid, preferably comprising at least one between Azadirachta indica and acetic acid;

- sprinkling at least part of the root system of said plant organism by administration of at least one pesticide liquid, preferably comprising at least one between Azadirachta indica and acetic acid.

20. The method according to any one of Claims 15 to 18, wherein said phytopathogenic organisms are selected from among bacteria, fungi, insects, and mites.

21. An instantaneous system for mixing in combination carbon dioxide or other gases in the liquid state and any biological liquid, for cleansing and carrying out biopesticide treatments to eliminate any type of mite, bacterium, fungus, and harmful insect, constituted by:

- at least one machine unit (Dl), comprising at least one machine body (12) mounted on which are one or more delivery nozzles (11), it being possible for each said delivery nozzle to be mounted in a fixed or removable way, maintaining the connection by means of said inner duct (82);

- at least one power-supply means (9) mounted on said machine unit (Dl) and in turn comprising one or more batteries (8) and/or one or more connection means (73, 74) for connection to the power mains supply; - at least one pump unit (D2), in turn comprising one or more pumps (6), at least one first connection (13) of said pump to at least one tank for containing the biological pesticide liquid (5), at least one duct for carrying the liquid (7) from said pump (6) to said machine unit (12), and means for connection of said duct (16) to said delivery nozzle (11);

- at least one valve assembly (D3), in turn comprising one or more solenoid valves (2), at least one first connection of said solenoid valve to at least one canister for containing the gas in the liquid state, at least one duct for carrying (3) the gas from said solenoid valve to said machine unit (12), and means for connection of said duct (16) to said delivery nozzle (11);

- at least one electrical cable (4) for said solenoid valve (2) and one electrical cable (4) for said pump (6), said supply cables (4) being connected to said machine unit (Dl); and

- one or more delivery nozzles (11), the two substances of the system, the gas in the liquid state and the biological liquid product being mixed in said delivery nozzles (11),

characterized in that in said system at least one biological-pesticide liquid substance and at least one gas in the liquid state are used; said mixing preferably, though not exclusively, occurring within said delivery nozzle (11).

22. The instantaneous system for mixing in combination carbon dioxide or other gases in the liquid state and any biological liquid, for cleansing and carrying out pesticide treatments to eliminate any type of mite, bacterium, fungus, and harmful insect, as per Claim 1, characterized in that a gas in the liquid state is used, preferably, though not exclusively, carbon dioxide and a biological pesticide product.

23. The instantaneous system for mixing in combination carbon dioxide or other gases in the liquid state and any biological liquid, for cleansing and carrying out pesticide treatments to eliminate any type of mite, bacterium, fungus, and harmful insect, as per Claim 1, characterized in that said pump (6) is appropriately integrated within the machine body (12).

24. The instantaneous system for mixing in combination carbon dioxide or other gases in the liquid state and any biological liquid, for cleansing and carrying out pesticide treatments to eliminate any type of mite, bacterium, fungus, and harmful insect, as per Claim 1, characterized in that a part of the gas in the liquid state, via a said union tee (14) and a pipe for carrying gas, is used for keeping the biological pesticide liquid mixed within the container (5) at low temperatures.

25. The instantaneous system for mixing in combination carbon dioxide or other gases in the liquid state and any biological liquid, for cleansing and carrying out pesticide treatments to eliminate any type of mite, bacterium, fungus, and harmful insect, as per any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control devices for operating said solenoid valve (2) and said pump (6) are positioned on said machine body (12).

26. The instantaneous system for mixing in combination carbon dioxide or other gases in the liquid state and any biological liquid, for cleansing and carrying out pesticide treatments to eliminate any types of mites, bacteria, fungi and harmful insects, characterized in that the invention may be applied to a system for covering and/or insulating the plant for bringing said plant to low temperatures and thus eradicating diseases present in the lymphatic system of said plant.