Nano-Agrochemicals

A special issue of Agrochemicals (ISSN 2813-3145).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 December 2023) | Viewed by 27735

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Plant Pathology Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Giza 12619, Egypt
Interests: agricultural nanotechnology; rapid diagnostic methods; breeding resistant varieties; pathogen genomes; eco-friendly nanomaterials
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

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Guest Editor
1. Department of Biotechnology, Sant Gagde Baba Amravati University, Amravati 444602, Maharashtra, India
2. Department of Biological Science and Biotechnology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Matunga, Mumbai 400019, Maharashtra, India
Interests: biological synthesis; nanobiotechnology; nanotechnology

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Nanotechnology may promote plant production by improving nutrient absorption and utilisation efficiency via nanoformulations of fertilisers and agrochemicals for plant enhancement, disease detection and treatment, and the monitoring of host–parasite interactions at the molecular level using nanosensors. Nano-agrochemicals can be used to precisely reduce an amount of chemicals via controlled or slow-release smart delivery methods. This Special Issue aims to inform readers about the latest applications of organic and inorganic NMs for crop growth and sustainable agriculture. The potential applications of nanopesticides, nanofertilisers, nanosensors, and nanoformulations for increasing agricultural yields, detecting environmental contaminants, and enabling soil cleaning are evaluated in terms of their beneficial impacts on plant growth. Sustained release and nanoscale delivery systems are among the top technologies for modern agriculture. Farmers and industrial employees are typically unwilling to participate in this business due to pricey product investments and mediocre cost benefits. However, while these technologies may not be commercially viable, the current state of agriculture cannot keep up with the ever-changing demands of food distribution and production, necessitating urgent change. Moreover, it is uncertain how NMs influence human health, safety, and the environment. Prior to applying NPs in fields, a comprehensive analysis of the physical and chemical features of the soil is essential to mitigate any potential hazards. Research on toxins that pose risks to humans and the environment may enhance our understanding of the complex connections between the agroecosystem, nanoscale agrochemicals, exposure levels, and individuals. The potential use of nanoscale agrochemicals in agriculture, such as nanopesticides, nanosensors, and nanoformulations, has altered traditional agricultural techniques, making them more effective and sustainable.

Prof. Dr. Kamel Ahmed Abd-Elsalam
Dr. Aniket Krishnarao Gade
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Agrochemicals is an international peer-reviewed open access quarterly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1000 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • nanoparticles as active ingredients
  • nanofertilisers
  • nanobiofertilisers
  • nano- and bioencapsulation
  • nanopesticides
  • nanoinsecticides
  • nanofungicides
  • nanoherbicides
  • nanodelivery system
  • slow release
  • nanosensors
  • antibiofilm agents
  • nanotoxicity

Published Papers (3 papers)

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Review

41 pages, 2982 KiB  
Review
Nanofertilizers: Types, Delivery and Advantages in Agricultural Sustainability
by Anurag Yadav, Kusum Yadav and Kamel A. Abd-Elsalam
Agrochemicals 2023, 2(2), 296-336; https://doi.org/10.3390/agrochemicals2020019 - 09 Jun 2023
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 16105
Abstract
In an alarming tale of agricultural excess, the relentless overuse of chemical fertilizers in modern farming methods have wreaked havoc on the once-fertile soil, mercilessly depleting its vital nutrients while inflicting irreparable harm on the delicate balance of the surrounding ecosystem. The excessive [...] Read more.
In an alarming tale of agricultural excess, the relentless overuse of chemical fertilizers in modern farming methods have wreaked havoc on the once-fertile soil, mercilessly depleting its vital nutrients while inflicting irreparable harm on the delicate balance of the surrounding ecosystem. The excessive use of such fertilizers leaves residue on agricultural products, pollutes the environment, upsets agrarian ecosystems, and lowers soil quality. Furthermore, a significant proportion of the nutrient content, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, is lost from the soil (50–70%) before being utilized. Nanofertilizers, on the other hand, use nanoparticles to control the release of nutrients, making them more efficient and cost-effective than traditional fertilizers. Nanofertilizers comprise one or more plant nutrients within nanoparticles where at least 50% of the particles are smaller than 100 nanometers. Carbon nanotubes, graphene, and quantum dots are some examples of the types of nanomaterials used in the production of nanofertilizers. Nanofertilizers are a new generation of fertilizers that utilize advanced nanotechnology to provide an efficient and sustainable method of fertilizing crops. They are designed to deliver plant nutrients in a controlled manner, ensuring that the nutrients are gradually released over an extended period, thus providing a steady supply of essential elements to the plants. The controlled-release system is more efficient than traditional fertilizers, as it reduces the need for frequent application and the amount of fertilizer. These nanomaterials have a high surface area-to-volume ratio, making them ideal for holding and releasing nutrients. Naturally occurring nanoparticles are found in various sources, including volcanic ash, ocean, and biological matter such as viruses and dust. However, regarding large-scale production, relying solely on naturally occurring nanoparticles may not be sufficient or practical. In agriculture, nanotechnology has been primarily used to increase crop production while minimizing losses and activating plant defense mechanisms against pests, insects, and other environmental challenges. Furthermore, nanofertilizers can reduce runoff and nutrient leaching into the environment, improving environmental sustainability. They can also improve fertilizer use efficiency, leading to higher crop yields and reducing the overall cost of fertilizer application. Nanofertilizers are especially beneficial in areas where traditional fertilizers are inefficient or ineffective. Nanofertilizers can provide a more efficient and cost-effective way to fertilize crops while reducing the environmental impact of fertilizer application. They are the product of promising new technology that can help to meet the increasing demand for food and improve agricultural sustainability. Currently, nanofertilizers face limitations, including higher costs of production and potential environmental and safety concerns due to the use of nanomaterials, while further research is needed to fully understand their long-term effects on soil health, crop growth, and the environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano-Agrochemicals)
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37 pages, 2036 KiB  
Review
Emerging Frontiers in Nanotechnology for Precision Agriculture: Advancements, Hurdles and Prospects
by Anurag Yadav, Kusum Yadav, Rumana Ahmad and Kamel A. Abd-Elsalam
Agrochemicals 2023, 2(2), 220-256; https://doi.org/10.3390/agrochemicals2020016 - 31 May 2023
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4914
Abstract
This review article provides an extensive overview of the emerging frontiers of nanotechnology in precision agriculture, highlighting recent advancements, hurdles, and prospects. The benefits of nanotechnology in this field include the development of advanced nanomaterials for enhanced seed germination and micronutrient supply, along [...] Read more.
This review article provides an extensive overview of the emerging frontiers of nanotechnology in precision agriculture, highlighting recent advancements, hurdles, and prospects. The benefits of nanotechnology in this field include the development of advanced nanomaterials for enhanced seed germination and micronutrient supply, along with the alleviation of biotic and abiotic stress. Further, nanotechnology-based fertilizers and pesticides can be delivered in lower dosages, which reduces environmental impacts and human health hazards. Another significant advantage lies in introducing cutting-edge nanodiagnostic systems and nanobiosensors that monitor soil quality parameters, plant diseases, and stress, all of which are critical for precision agriculture. Additionally, this technology has demonstrated potential in reducing agro-waste, synthesizing high-value products, and using methods and devices for tagging, monitoring, and tracking agroproducts. Alongside these developments, cloud computing and smartphone-based biosensors have emerged as crucial data collection and analysis tools. Finally, this review delves into the economic, legal, social, and risk implications of nanotechnology in agriculture, which must be thoroughly examined for the technology’s widespread adoption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano-Agrochemicals)
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17 pages, 1985 KiB  
Review
Nano-Biofertilizers Synthesis and Applications in Agroecosystems
by Preeti Bairwa, Nimish Kumar, Vijay Devra and Kamel A. Abd-Elsalam
Agrochemicals 2023, 2(1), 118-134; https://doi.org/10.3390/agrochemicals2010009 - 22 Feb 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 5523
Abstract
Green chemistry and nanobiotechnology have great potential for generating new and significant products that are favorable to the environment, industry, and consumers. The nanoforms of metals and nanocomposites are more effective and efficient agents than their bulkier counterparts because of their distinctive physical, [...] Read more.
Green chemistry and nanobiotechnology have great potential for generating new and significant products that are favorable to the environment, industry, and consumers. The nanoforms of metals and nanocomposites are more effective and efficient agents than their bulkier counterparts because of their distinctive physical, chemical, and optical properties. Green technology is a rapidly growing scientific field that has recently received attention due to its many applications. Different nanoparticle dimensions, sizes, and bioactivities will develop as a consequence of changes in the biomaterials employed for synthesis. The existing understanding of several green synthesis methods, that depend on different plant components and microorganisms for the production of nanoparticles, is summarized in the current review. Employing these materials minimizes synthesis costs while minimizing the use of hazardous chemicals and promoting “biosynthesis.” To produce metal nanoparticles efficiently, bio-reduction is influenced by the abundance of essential enzymes, proteins, and biomolecules. Rapid biosynthetic regeneration makes this characteristic sufficient for their employment in a range of situations. In this review, we explore the biosynthesis of nanomaterials and their potential in sustainable agriculture. Biosynthesized nanofertilizers, or bionanofertilizers, are a revolutionary new class of fertilizer that has been developed with the help of nanotechnology. These fertilizers offer many advantages over traditional fertilization methods and can be used to increase crop yields while reducing the environmental impact of fertilizers. Bionanofertilizer are an inexpensive way to increase plant growth and production, and to improve the use of nutrients by plants and the health of the soil. According to our survey, nanotechnology presents a wide range of prospects by offering a cutting-edge and environmentally friendly alternative in the agricultural sector. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano-Agrochemicals)
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