Abstract

Agrochemical Delivery using Nanocomposites

Author(s): Jennifer Stewart

Excessive fertiliser use has a negative impact on soil health, lowers plant nutrient consumption efficiency, and pollutes the environment. The use of controlled-release fertiliser is gaining traction as a solution to the dilemma. Engineered nanocomposites (ENCs) have showed great potential for delivering agrochemicals (macro- and micronutrients, insecticides, and other agrochemicals) to where they are needed. This review covers the synthesis of nanocomposites, as well as their physical and chemical characterisation and approaches for achieving continuous release and targeted distribution to crops, with a focus on their beneficial role in plant production and protection. Aspects such as the application's practicality, commercialization of nanoformulations, and biosafety concerns are also discussed. This will aid in the development of a critical understanding of the current state of the art in nanocomposites for the controlled release of agrochemicals. Future research should pay more attention to critical issues including scaling up manufacturing, economic analyses, field-based trials, and environmental safety concerns.