Applications of nanotechnology in fertilizers: A review study

Abstract

The ability of any country to grow depends on its ability to produce food and resources for its people that are high in nutrients or values. However, its growth is being hampered by various factors such as soil quality, water quality, climate change, and overcrowding of any population. Due to population expansion, it is anticipated that global food consumption will increase by over 70 % by 2050. Less nutrients and contaminants in soil are a big problem since they can harm a crop’s ability to grow and develop, as they negatively affect agriculture. Chemical fertilizers play an important role in the growth of the agricultural industry, but they can also have reverse impacts on the environment and human health. Approximately half of all chemical pesticides and fertilizers are ineffective due to leaching, which leads to nutrient imbalances and can contaminate water sources, posing threats to aquatic ecosystems and human health. Nanotechnology, deals with nanoparticles, can improve crop yields and quality through enhanced plant growth and disease resistance mechanisms. Nano fertilizers can be synthesized chemically, physically, and biologically from the plants. The biological method is the most effective for the synthesis of nanoparticles and nano fertilizers due to its cost effective, and environment-friendly nature. These biocompatible and non-toxic nanoparticles are suitable for various agricultural applications without any harmful impacts on the environment or human health. Therefore, the review study of this innovative approach could enhance the understanding of revolutionizing sustainable agriculture practices through nanoparticles.