Bioactivity of Plant Nanoemulsions against Stored-Product Insects (Order Coleoptera): A Review1

Abstract

As the risks arising from the use of chemical pesticides increase, researchers are continuously exploring alternatives that are safer for humans and the environment. Among these alternatives is the use of plant extracts; however, plant extracts have various disadvantages, including the instability of their compounds that evaporate with time, thereby reducing their effectiveness. With the development of nanotechnology and its applications, researchers are focused on testing the performance of plant-based nanocomposites for eliminating pests. Numerous issues with agricultural and insect pest control can be addressed by using nanotechnology, including increasing the physical stability, water dispersion, and bioavailability of oil emulsions and coating the desired surface area with small oil droplets. Thus, issues with essential oil application, such as volatility, low water solubility, and oxidation, can be resolved by using nanoformulations. These nanoformulations progressively release active ingredients on site, reducing the toxicity for nontarget species and demonstrating their potential as substitutes for synthetic pesticides in the management of stored-grain pests. Research on nanoemulsions from plant sources and their role in controlling stored-product coleopteran insects was reviewed with emphasis on articles from 2014 through 2023. This review compiles important data for this field of research, providing information for design of future studies.