Nanotechnology in Agriculture and Environmental Science

Nanotechnology in agriculture offers numerous benefits, such as improved crop yields, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced food safety. However, there are also limitations and challenges associated with its use, such as toxicity and regulatory issues.

Format: Hardback
Length: 326 pages
Publication date: 17 November 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Agricultural Nanobiotechnology: Exploring Applications and Limitations

Nanotechnology has revolutionized the field of agriculture, offering innovative solutions to address various challenges faced by farmers. Agricultural nanobiotechnology involves the use of nanomaterials, such as nanoparticles, to enhance crop yields, improve soil quality, and mitigate the impact of pests and diseases. In this article, we will explore the applications and limitations of agricultural nanobiotechnology.

Rationalized Design of Nanomaterials:

Nanomaterials are tiny particles with unique properties that can be tailored to specific applications. The rationalized design of nanomaterials allows for the creation of materials with enhanced properties, such as increased surface area, better solubility, and improved biocompatibility. This has led to the development of nano-enabled pesticides, fertilizers, and other agricultural products that are more effective, efficient, and environmentally friendly.

Nano-Enabled Pesticides and Their Applications:

Nano-enabled pesticides are a promising solution to address the growing problem of pesticide resistance. These pesticides contain nanomaterials that enhance their effectiveness by targeting specific pests or pest behaviors. For example, silver nanoparticles have been used to create effective pesticides against aphids, while copper nanoparticles have been used to control fungal diseases in crops. Nano-enabled pesticides are less harmful to the environment and can be used at lower concentrations, reducing the risk of pesticide residues in food and water.

Nanofungicides for the Management of Fungal Diseases in Crops:

Fungal diseases are a significant threat to crop yields worldwide. Nanofungicides are a promising solution to control these diseases. Nanomaterials, such as chitosan nanoparticles, have been shown to have antifungal properties and can be used to protect crops from fungal infections. Chitosan nanoparticles can be applied to the leaves or stems of crops, and they can help to prevent the spread of fungal diseases and reduce the damage caused by them.

Nanofertilizer and Their Development:

Nanofertilizers are a promising solution to address the issue of nutrient depletion in soil. Nanomaterials, such as iron oxide nanoparticles, have been shown to enhance the availability of nutrients to plants by improving their solubility and uptake. Nanofertilizers can be used to improve crop yields, reduce the need for chemical fertilizers, and promote sustainable agriculture.

Biosensors for Monitoring Soil Health:

Biosensors are devices that can detect and measure various environmental parameters, such as pH, temperature, and nutrient levels. Biosensors are used in agricultural nanobiotechnology to monitor soil health and detect changes in soil conditions. This information can help farmers make informed decisions about crop management and improve soil quality.

Assessment of Toxicity and Risk of Nanoparticles:

While agricultural nanobiotechnology offers many benefits, it is important to assess the toxicity and risk of nanoparticles. Nanoparticles can have harmful effects on human health and the environment, and it is essential to ensure that they are used safely and responsibly. Research is ongoing to evaluate the safety of nanoparticles and develop guidelines for their safe use in agriculture.

Chitosan Nanoparticles and Their Applications in Plant Diseases Management:

Chitosan nanoparticles are a promising solution to address the issue of plant diseases. Chitosan is a natural polymer that has antimicrobial properties and can be used to protect plants from various diseases. Chitosan nanoparticles can be applied to the leaves or stems of plants, and they can help to prevent the spread of diseases and reduce the damage caused by them.

Conclusion:

Agricultural nanobiotechnology has the potential to revolutionize the field of agriculture by offering innovative solutions to address various challenges faced by farmers. Nanomaterials, such as nanoparticles, have the potential to enhance crop yields, improve soil quality, and mitigate the impact of pests and diseases. However, it is important to assess the toxicity and risk of nanoparticles and develop guidelines for their safe use in agriculture. With continued research and development, agricultural nanobiotechnology will play an increasingly important role in promoting sustainable agriculture and ensuring food security for a growing population.

Weight: 770g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032348117