Nanotechnology: A novel approach transforming agriculture

Akshika Bhawariya^{* *}Correspondence: Akshika Bhawariya, Department of Agriculture, RNB Global University, Bikaner, India, Email:

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Introduction

Nanotechnology can also act as sensors for monitoring soil quality in agricultural fields, thus maintaining the health of agricultural plants Prasad, et al. It promises to revolutionize agriculture and the food industry by introducing new techniques such as precision farming, enhancing plants' nutrient absorption, more efficient and targeted use of inputs, disease detection and control, resilience against environmental stresses, and advanced systems for processing, storage, and packaging. Nanoclays and zeolites can increase the efficiency of applied fertilizers and restore soil fertility by releasing fixed nutrients. Nanoherbicides are being developed to tackle perennial weed management and deplete weed seed banks. Environmental pollution levels can be swiftly assessed using nano smart dust and gas sensors [1].

Nanotechnology in agriculture

Nanotechnology is an interdisciplinary field that spans various applied sciences, including chemistry, physics, biology, medicine, and engineering. It involves controlling the structure of matter at the nanometer scale to create materials with unique properties. Nanotechnology, essentially the manipulation or self-assembly of individual atoms, molecules, or molecular clusters into structures, produces materials and devices with new or significantly different properties. The term "Nano" is derived from the Greek word “nanos” meaning ‘dwarf’. "Nanotechnology" primarily involves processing materials by one atom or molecule at a time.

Nanoparticles (NPs)

Nanoparticles, whether natural or manufactured, have at least one dimension in the range of 1−100 nm. A nanometer is one billionth of a meter. The term “nano” refers to a size scale between 1 nm and 100 nm, involving the development or modification of materials or devices within that size range. Nanoemulsions, carbon nanotubes, quantum dots, nanorods, and nano-encapsulation are examples of nanomaterials. These materials' properties significantly differ from others due to increased relative surface area and quantum effects. Important properties of nanoparticles include morphology, hydrophobicity, solubility, surface area, Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) capacity, and dispersion/aggregation [2,3].

Potential applications in agriculture

Nanotechnology has the potential to transform the agricultural and food industries by introducing new tools for molecular disease treatment, rapid disease detection, and enhancing plants' nutrient absorption. Smart sensors and delivery systems will help the agricultural industry combat viruses and other crop pathogens. Nano-structured catalysts will increase the efficiency of pesticides and herbicides, allowing for lower doses. Nanotechnology will also indirectly protect the environment through renewable energy sources and pollution-reducing filters or catalysts. Nanofertilizers and nanopesticides improve the efficiency of agricultural inputs and conserve natural resources. For instance, the Allosperse delivery system enhances the efficiency of pesticide application. Nano sensors in precision farming and nanomaterials for soil and water conservation, like Geohumus and NanoClay, help utilize natural resources efficiently. Production of nanomaterials can manage agricultural waste effectively, such as the production of nanocellulose from agricultural residues by CRICOT India.

Applications in various agricultural fields

Nanotechnology has applications in numerous scientific fields, including agriculture, food technology, crop improvement, seed technology, precision farming, balanced crop nutrition, plant disease diagnosis, weed management, water management, biosensors, and pest management. It is predicted that nanotechnology will transform the entire food industry, changing how food is produced, processed, packaged, transported, and consumed. Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) technology provides an excellent platform for introducing nanotechnology into agriculture. Nanotechnological devices for CEA can significantly improve growers' ability to determine the best harvest time, crop vitality, and food security issues [4-6].

Precision farming

Precision farming aims to maximize crop yields while minimizing inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides by monitoring environmental variables and applying targeted actions. This method uses computers, global satellite positioning systems, and remote sensing devices to measure localized environmental conditions, determining whether crops are growing efficiently or identifying specific problems. Using centralized data, seeding, fertilizer, chemical, and water use can be fine-tuned to lower production costs and potentially increase production. Although not yet fully implemented, nanotechnology-enabled devices, such as autonomous sensors linked to GPS for real-time monitoring, will significantly impact future precision farming. These nanosensors can monitor soil conditions and crop growth, allowing an earlier response to environmental changes. For example, carbon nanotubes or nano-cantilevers can trap and measure individual proteins or molecules, and nanoparticles can trigger electrical or chemical signals in the presence of contaminants [7-9].

Nano sensors

Nanotechnology applications are being developed to improve soil fertility and crop production. Nano-sensors can determine the optimal harvest time, detect crop health, and identify microbial or chemical contamination. They can also monitor crop and animal health and remove soil contaminants using magnetic nanoparticles. "Lab on a chip" technology could significantly impact developing nations by providing detailed analysis and monitoring capabilities.

Nanofertilizers

In recent years, nanofertilizers have become available in the market, though agricultural fertilizers are not yet widely produced by major chemical companies. Nanofertilizers may contain nano zinc, silica, iron, titanium dioxide, and other elements, promoting controlled release and improving quality. Studies on the uptake, biological fate, and toxicity of several metal oxide NPs have been conducted to enhance agricultural production [10,11].

Nanoherbicides

Developing target-specific herbicide molecules encapsulated with nanoparticles aims to target weed roots, inhibiting their growth and ultimately killing them. This approach can address issues like herbicide resistance and reduce the need for multiple herbicide applications. Nanoherbicides can also ensure controlled release, improving weed management even in rain-fed areas where soil moisture is insufficient [12-15].

Nanopesticides

Nanopesticides, encapsulated in nanoparticles, offer slow-release properties with enhanced solubility, specificity, permeability, and stability, reducing pesticide dosage and human exposure. This environmentally friendly approach to crop protection minimizes negative impacts on ecosystems Nuruzzaman, et al. Companies like Syngenta have developed products such as Karate ZEON and Subdue MAXX, which utilize nanoscale emulsions for effective pest control.

Applications in agronomy

Precision agriculture, aided by nano sensors, optimizes the use of fertilizers and chemical pesticides, improving safety and economic efficiency. Nano sensors enable precise farm management, reporting plants' needs timely and ensuring optimal input use. Nanomaterials and GPS with satellite imaging can remotely detect crop pests or stress, allowing for automatic adjustment of pesticide applications or irrigation levels. Slow-release fertilizers, like those using zeolites, ensure nutrients are released at a slower rate, minimizing waste and environmental pollution. Nanocomposites containing N, P, K, micronutrients, and amino acids can increase nutrient uptake and utilization by crops.

Seeds imbibed with nano-encapsulations, termed smart seeds, can reduce seed rates and improve crop performance. Smart seeds can be programmed to germinate when adequate moisture is available, aiding in reforestation efforts. Coating seeds with nano membranes ensures germination at the right time, while magnetic particles detect moisture content during storage, reducing damage. Bio-analytical nano sensors can determine seed aging, enhancing seed quality and germination.

Conclusion

The extensive use of agrochemicals to boost agricultural production has polluted topsoil, groundwater, and food. While increasing agricultural productivity is essential, new approaches are needed to mitigate environmental damage. Nanotechnology offers promising solutions, including the delivery of pesticides, biopesticides, fertilizers, and genetic material for plant transformation. Nanomaterials can reduce dosage and ensure controlled slow delivery, stabilizing biocontrol preparations and minimizing environmental hazards. Nanotechnology's unique properties have led to the development of nanosensors capable of detecting pathogens at extremely low levels. These tools can also degrade persistent chemicals into harmless components, addressing urgent environmental protection and pollution issues. By employing nanotechnology, agricultural technology can streamline current practices and provide powerful tools for environmental detection, sensing, and remediation.

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