Nanotechnology in Crop Protection: A Review

Abstract

The establishment and development of new pathogenic races is a constant problem, because chemical pest control is both expensive and ineffectual. Nanomaterials have lately been proposed as a potential alternative for reducing plant diseases and crop protection. Agricultural methods usually include the systematic administration of a variety of active chemicals at varied dosages and frequency, resulting in a variety of selective regimes. Crop protection is critical in the production of food all over the world. Nanotechnologies are being employed more and more to maintain traditional crops and to develop novel crops with superior qualities. Pollen magnetofection and gene nanocarriers are two nanobiotechnologies that are now being used to improve pest, weed, and disease management, as well as agricultural genetic modification. Traditional crop pest, weed, and disease management has been greatly enhanced thanks to a better understanding of the synthesis of nanomaterials with extraordinary capabilities. Plant germination, growth, and crop protection have all been proved to benefit from nanoparticles in agriculture. The enhanced specific surface area of nanomaterials benefits fertilisers and insecticides. Nanomaterials have also been developed for a variety of applications such as medical, medication delivery, electronics, fuel cells, solar cells, food, space, and so on. This chapter outlines recent attempts the use of nanotechnologies in agriculture in novel ways that could assist meet rising food demand while also ensuring environmental sustainability.