Nanocomposites in agriculture as pesticides for plant protection: a review

Abstract

Plant pests pose a significant threat to agricultural crops, requiring the use of pesticides for effective and large-scale production. With increasing concerns about environmental and health risks, as well as potential resistance to synthetic pesticides, there is a growing need for sustainable and effective alternatives. Nanocomposites (NCs) offer a promising solution due to their unique properties such as biodegradability, affordability and accessibility. The development of novel NCs improves the management of plant pests, mitigating the emergence of resistant and persistent pests and the loss of crop production due to the damage they cause. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the relevant literature in this field, focusing on the applications and modes of action of NC-based pesticides in agriculture. By synthesising the available information, this paper provides valuable insights into the value and potential of NCs in crop protection. The results of this review are intended to inform researchers and agricultural practitioners about the opportunities and challenges associated with the use of NC-based pesticides, ultimately facilitating the development of sustainable and efficient crop pest management strategies.