Yoshinori Matsuda^{1, 2}, Norihiko Kajimura^{2, 3}, Maou Hirai^{2, 4}, Kazutaka Fujimoto^{2, 5}, Hideyoshi Toyoda^2,

The present study introduces an innovative device that enables the safe, unmanned control of kudzu vines climbing along roadside fences. The device consists of two identical galvanized iron nets arranged in parallel at a specified interval, separated by plastic spacers and secured within a plastic frame. One of the metal nets is connected to a pulse-charging positive voltage booster, while the other is grounded. This type of voltage booster is commonly used in electric fences to repel wild animals from crop fields, ensuring safe operation. The positive charge on the metal net connected to the voltage booster induces a negative charge on the grounded net through electrostatic induction. These opposite charges create an electric field in the space between the two nets. Kudzu vines creeping along the ground receive electric sparks from the pulse-charged net when they enter this electric field. These sparks are strong enough to destroy the apical meristem (growing tip) of the vine, thereby preventing further growth. Thanks to its simple structure, the device is easy to construct, cost-effective, and suitable for long-term use with minimal maintenance. The plastic spacers and frames, produced using metal molds, allow for rapid assembly and mass production of the components. This facilitates widespread deployment along roadside fences, especially on expressways across the country, where the kudzu invasion has become a serious social issue.

electric field, electrostatic weed control, kudzu invasion problem, positive voltage booster, pulse-charging, spark exposure, vine weed