Nanotechnology in Agriculture

Abstract The application of nanotechnology to agriculture and food industries is carrying increased weight because of the good benefits ranging from improved food quality, processing and nutrition and safety to reduced agricultural inputs. Nano-materials in agriculture reduce the amount of spread chemicals, minimize nutrient losses in fertilization and increased yield through water and nutrient management. The significant interest of using nanotechnology in agriculture includes specific applications like nano-fertilizers and nano-pesticides to track products and nutrients levels to increase the productivity without decontamination of soils and waters and protection against pest and diseases. The nano-particles like Ag, ZnO and CuO are relevant in the growth of agriculture by bioactivity and bio-modification. The delivered nanotechnology devices are also being explored in the field of plant breeding and genetic transformation. For the crop production and plant protection the nano-capsules nano-particles and nano-emulsion act as a smart delivery system of active ingredients for disease and pest control. Also these particles are used in fertilizers for the enhancement of nutrients adsorption by plants and delivery of nutrients. The nano-particles carrying DNA or RNA can be delivered to plant cells for genetic transformation hence plant breeding. From many different technological innovations including hybrid varieties, synthetic chemicals and biotechnology nanotechnology seeks a new source of agricultural improvements benefitting from food processing, distribution, packaging and functional food. The increased use of pesticides and herbicides in the agricultural system effectively utilizes modern technology for crop management called Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA). For insect pest control a slow but efficient chemical like insecticide is released through a process called Nano-encapulation. To enhance nutrient use efficiency and overcome the chronic problem of eutrophication, nano-fertilizer might be a best alternative. Nanofertilizers are synthesized in order to regulate the release of nutrients depending on the requirements of the crops. Nanofertilizers could be used to reduce nitrogen loss due to leaching, emissions, and long-term incorporation by soil micro-organisms. This study provides a review of the current challenges of sustainability, food security and climate change that are exploring by the researchers in the field of nanotechnology in the improvement of agriculture. Keywords: Bio nanotechnology, Nano-encapsulation, Nano-fertilizers, Eutrophication, nano-fabrication, nano-particles.