Applications of Nanotechnology in Plant Disease Management

Plant pathogens cause significant reduction in production (20-40 %) of various crops. Current disease management relies heavily on the application of chemicals like fungicides, bactericides and nematicides. It is estimated that 90 % of chemicals are lost in the environment during or after application of chemicals. Therefore, nanotechnology would provide green and efficient alternatives for the management of plant disease without harming nature. The use of nanotechnology in agriculture is currently being explored in plant hormone delivery, seed germination, water management, transfer of target gene, nano sensor and controlled release of agrochemicals. Nanotechnology is the design, characterization, production and application of structures, devices and system by controlling shape and size at Nano scale. Nanoparticles used in plant disease management are Nano chitosan, Nano silver, Nano silica, Nano copper etc. Fungicides that have low water solubility require organic solvent to solubilize them for this purpose nano particles act as carrier of fungicides and are exploited to improve low water solubility, decrease volatilization and improve stability (Worrallet al. , 2018). Nano particles have also been used for biosensorsincluding metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, quantum dots, carbon nanotubes and graphene. Application of nanotechnology can offer unprecedented advantages like improved solubility of poorly water-soluble pesticides, enhanced shelf-life and controlled delivery of actives. Nanoparticles helps to improve the selective toxicity and overcome pesticide resistance.