Beyond the Microscope: Nanotechnology’s Impact on Our World (Part 2) E-Book
Authors: Shivang Dhoundiyal
59,99 €
Mehr erfahren.
- Herausgeber: Bentham Science Publishers
- Kategorie: Fachliteratur
- Sprache: Englisch
Building upon the foundational knowledge presented in Part 1, Beyond the Microscope: Nanotechnology’s Impact on Our World – Part 2 explores the expanding real-world applications, regulatory considerations, and ethical implications of nanotechnology across diverse sectors.
Key themes include the integration of nanomaterials in biomedical technologies, their role in sustainable agriculture and environmental remediation, as well as the development of smart materials. The book also critically examines issues surrounding toxicity, lifecycle assessments, governance frameworks, and the societal impact of emerging nanotechnologies.
Chapters cover areas such as nanocarriers for drug delivery, nano-enabled food and water safety solutions, nanostructured materials for energy systems, conservation science, public perception, and policy development—offering both depth and interdisciplinary insight.
Key Features:
Explores advanced applications through up-to-date case studies
Examines cross-sectoral impacts of nanotechnology on public health, energy, and sustainability
Analyzes regulatory frameworks and safety protocols in nanomaterial usage
Investigates ethical, legal, and societal issues shaping nanotech development
Illustrates practical uses with visuals and applied research examples
Presents future outlooks and innovation trends in global nanoscience
Readership
An essential resource for students, researchers, and practitioners in nanoscience, biotechnology, materials science and policy.
Das E-Book können Sie in Legimi-Apps oder einer beliebigen App lesen, die das folgende Format unterstützen:
Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2025
Ähnliche
BENTHAM SCIENCE PUBLISHERS LTD.
End User License Agreement (for non-institutional, personal use)
This is an agreement between you and Bentham Science Publishers Ltd. Please read this License Agreement carefully before using the book/echapter/ejournal (“Work”). Your use of the Work constitutes your agreement to the terms and conditions set forth in this License Agreement. If you do not agree to these terms and conditions then you should not use the Work.
Bentham Science Publishers agrees to grant you a non-exclusive, non-transferable limited license to use the Work subject to and in accordance with the following terms and conditions. This License Agreement is for non-library, personal use only. For a library / institutional / multi user license in respect of the Work, please contact: [email protected].
Usage Rules:
All rights reserved: The Work is the subject of copyright and Bentham Science Publishers either owns the Work (and the copyright in it) or is licensed to distribute the Work. You shall not copy, reproduce, modify, remove, delete, augment, add to, publish, transmit, sell, resell, create derivative works from, or in any way exploit the Work or make the Work available for others to do any of the same, in any form or by any means, in whole or in part, in each case without the prior written permission of Bentham Science Publishers, unless stated otherwise in this License Agreement.You may download a copy of the Work on one occasion to one personal computer (including tablet, laptop, desktop, or other such devices). You may make one back-up copy of the Work to avoid losing it.The unauthorised use or distribution of copyrighted or other proprietary content is illegal and could subject you to liability for substantial money damages. You will be liable for any damage resulting from your misuse of the Work or any violation of this License Agreement, including any infringement by you of copyrights or proprietary rights.Disclaimer:
Bentham Science Publishers does not guarantee that the information in the Work is error-free, or warrant that it will meet your requirements or that access to the Work will be uninterrupted or error-free. The Work is provided "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied or statutory, including, without limitation, implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. The entire risk as to the results and performance of the Work is assumed by you. No responsibility is assumed by Bentham Science Publishers, its staff, editors and/or authors for any injury and/or damage to persons or property as a matter of products liability, negligence or otherwise, or from any use or operation of any methods, products instruction, advertisements or ideas contained in the Work.
Limitation of Liability:
In no event will Bentham Science Publishers, its staff, editors and/or authors, be liable for any damages, including, without limitation, special, incidental and/or consequential damages and/or damages for lost data and/or profits arising out of (whether directly or indirectly) the use or inability to use the Work. The entire liability of Bentham Science Publishers shall be limited to the amount actually paid by you for the Work.
General:
Any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with this License Agreement or the Work (including non-contractual disputes or claims) will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Singapore. Each party agrees that the courts of the state of Singapore shall have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with this License Agreement or the Work (including non-contractual disputes or claims).Your rights under this License Agreement will automatically terminate without notice and without the need for a court order if at any point you breach any terms of this License Agreement. In no event will any delay or failure by Bentham Science Publishers in enforcing your compliance with this License Agreement constitute a waiver of any of its rights.You acknowledge that you have read this License Agreement, and agree to be bound by its terms and conditions. To the extent that any other terms and conditions presented on any website of Bentham Science Publishers conflict with, or are inconsistent with, the terms and conditions set out in this License Agreement, you acknowledge that the terms and conditions set out in this License Agreement shall prevail.Bentham Science Publishers Pte. Ltd. 80 Robinson Road #02-00 Singapore 068898 Singapore Email: [email protected]
PREFACE
In Part 2 of this book, we shift our focus from theory to transformation. The following chapters showcase how nanotechnology is being applied to solve real-world problems across a variety of fields—from healing human bodies at the molecular level to protecting cultural heritage with invisible coatings.
We’ve written this section to illustrate what happens when cutting-edge science meets human needs. You’ll read about personalized medical treatments, smart wearables that monitor your health, and nanomaterials that help preserve the planet. However, you’ll also find discussions on the ethical boundaries and safety standards that must be upheld as this field continues to grow.
We aim to present nanotechnology as both a tool and a challenge—one that can do immense good when used wisely. We hope that these pages help you think critically, not only about what is possible, but also about what is right. As always, we thank you for joining us in exploring the infinitesimal wonders of nanoscience.
Nanotechnology in Agriculture and Food
Shivang Dhoundiyal,Aftab AlamAbstract
Nanotechnology offers transformative opportunities in agriculture and food, providing innovative solutions to enhance productivity, sustainability, and food safety. This chapter explores key applications of nanotechnology, including nanofertilizers for improved nutrient delivery, nanosensors for real-time monitoring of soil and plant health, and nano-pesticides for targeted pest control with reduced chemical use. These advancements contribute to more precise and efficient agricultural practices, boosting crop yields and minimizing environmental impact. In food preservation, nanocoatings extend shelf life and prevent contamination, while nanosensors ensure food safety by detecting pathogens and integrating into supply chain monitoring. Nanomaterials also enhance food processing, improving nutritional value, texture, and flavor. The chapter highlights smart delivery systems that control the release of nutrients and agrochemicals, alongside innovations in animal husbandry that improve health and productivity through advanced veterinary applications and feed supplements. It also discusses the environmental implications of nanotechnology, emphasizing the importance of assessing ecosystem impacts and developing regulatory frameworks to ensure safety. As nanotechnology continues to evolve, its potential to revolutionize agriculture and food systems is immense, promising a more sustainable, efficient, and resilient future in food production and security.
INTRODUCTION
Nanotechnology, the science of manipulating matter at scales as small as one-billionth of a meter, is revolutionizing various sectors, including agriculture and food. This cutting-edge technology offers new tools and techniques that can significantly enhance food production and safety, contributing to more efficient, sustainable, and resilient agricultural systems [1]. The global demand for food is increasing due to population growth, climate change, and the depletion of natural resources, creating a pressing need for innovative solutions. Nanotechnology addresses these challenges by enabling precision agriculture, improving the efficiency of inputs like fertilizers and pesticides, and enhancing the quality and safety of food products [2]. As a result, it is becoming an indispensable component of modern agricultural practices and food systems. The applications of
nanotechnology in agriculture are diverse and rapidly expanding, as mentioned in Table 1.1. One of the most promising areas is precision farming, which leverages nanosensors and smart delivery systems to monitor and manage agricultural processes with unprecedented accuracy [3]. Nanosensors can detect soil moisture levels, nutrient deficiencies, and plant diseases early on, enabling timely interventions that improve crop health and yield. Nano-fertilizers and nano-pesticides are another significant application, designed to release nutrients and active compounds slowly and in a controlled manner, ensuring that plants receive the right amount at the right time. This not only enhances plant growth but also reduces the environmental impact of excess fertilizer and pesticide use, such as water contamination and soil degradation. In addition, nanotechnology is being used to develop nano-encapsulated agrochemicals, which protect active ingredients from degradation due to environmental factors, extending their efficacy. Nano-enabled delivery systems can also target specific plant tissues or pests, reducing the overall amount of chemicals needed and minimizing off-target effects [4]. Beyond crop management, nanotechnology is revolutionizing water purification and filtration systems, ensuring that irrigation water is free from contaminants that could harm crops or enter the food chain [5]. These advances contribute to more sustainable agricultural practices and improve the overall quality and safety of food products. Nanotechnology’s importance in sustainable agriculture cannot be overstated. It offers numerous benefits that align with the principles of sustainability, including the efficient use of resources, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced food security. By enabling more precise application of inputs like water, fertilizers, and pesticides, nanotechnology reduces waste and mitigates the negative effects of overuse, such as soil degradation and water pollution. This is particularly crucial in regions facing water scarcity or where traditional farming practices have led to significant environmental degradation. Nanotechnology enhances the resilience of crops to environmental stressors like drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures, which are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change. By improving plant health and reducing losses due to pests and diseases, nanotechnology helps to stabilize food production, even under challenging conditions. This is vital for ensuring food security, especially in developing regions where agricultural productivity is closely linked to livelihoods and economic stability. Another key benefit of nanotechnology is its potential to reduce post-harvest losses through advanced packaging and preservation techniques. Nano-enabled packaging materials can detect spoilage, extend shelf life, and even release preservatives in a controlled manner, ensuring that food remains fresh from farm to table [6]. This helps reduce food waste, a significant issue in the global food supply chain, and ensures that more of the food produced reaches consumers.
ENHANCING CROP YIELD AND PROTECTION
Nano Fertilizers
Nanofertilizers represent a groundbreaking advancement in agricultural technology, designed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of nutrient delivery to plants. Traditional fertilizers often suffer from issues such as nutrient leaching, volatilization, and inefficient uptake by plants, leading to significant wastage and environmental pollution [16]. Nanofertilizers, on the other hand, utilize nanoscale materials to encapsulate or coat nutrients, allowing for more precise and controlled release [17]. This targeted approach ensures that nutrients are delivered directly to the plant roots, enhancing absorption and reducing the amount of fertilizer needed. As a result, nanofertilizers not only improve the nutritional content available to crops but also minimize the negative environmental impacts associated with excessive fertilizer use [18]. The core innovation behind nanofertilizers lies in their advanced nutrient delivery systems. These systems are engineered to release nutrients in a slow and sustained manner, matching the specific growth stages and nutrient demands of crops. For instance, nanomaterials can be designed to respond to environmental triggers such as soil pH, moisture levels, or root exudates, releasing nutrients only when the plants need them [19]. This level of precision not only maximizes nutrient uptake by plants but also reduces the risk of nutrient runoff into water bodies, which can cause eutrophication and other ecological problems. Additionally, nanofertilizers can be formulated to include multiple nutrients in a single application, addressing the specific needs of crops more comprehensively than conventional fertilizers. This multi-nutrient approach not only boosts plant growth and yield but also enhances soil health by maintaining a balanced nutrient profile. The efficacy of nanofertilizers has been demonstrated in various case studies, showcasing their potential to significantly increase crop yields. In one study, the application of nano-encapsulated nitrogen fertilizers to wheat crops resulted in a 20-30% increase in grain yield compared to traditional fertilizers [20]. The slow and controlled release of nitrogen reduced losses due to volatilization and leaching, ensuring that more of the applied nitrogen was available to the plants throughout the growing season. Similarly, in rice cultivation, the use of nanofertilizers containing essential micronutrients such as zinc and iron led to improved plant health, increased resistance to diseases, and higher grain production. Another notable example is the application of nano-hydroxyapatite as a phosphate fertilizer, which has been shown to enhance phosphorus availability in the soil, leading to better root development and higher crop yields in maize.
Nanosensors for Crop Monitoring
Nanosensors are a cutting-edge innovation in agricultural technology, designed to monitor crop health and soil conditions with high precision and in real-time. These tiny devices, often no larger than a few nanometers, are embedded with the capability to detect and measure a wide range of environmental parameters, including soil moisture, nutrient levels, pH, temperature, and the presence of pests or diseases [21]. The use of nanosensors in agriculture enables farmers to gather detailed, accurate data on their crops and soil conditions, allowing for timely and informed decision-making. This technology is integral to the advancement of precision agriculture, where the goal is to optimize the use of resources, enhance crop yields, and reduce environmental impacts through targeted interventions. One of the most significant advantages of nanosensors is their ability to provide real-time monitoring of soil and plant health. Traditional methods of soil and crop analysis often involve manual sampling and laboratory testing, which can be time-consuming, labor-intensive, and subject to delays. In contrast, nanosensors can be deployed directly in the field, continuously collecting data and transmitting it to farmers via wireless networks [22]. This constant stream of information allows for immediate detection of issues such as nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or disease onset, enabling farmers to take corrective actions before these problems escalate. For example, nanosensors can detect early signs of drought stress by monitoring soil moisture levels and signaling when irrigation is needed, thus preventing crop damage and optimizing water use. Similarly, by tracking nutrient levels, these sensors can help ensure that plants receive the right amount of fertilizers at the right time, enhancing nutrient uptake and reducing wastage. Nanosensors are at the forefront of precision agriculture, a farming management concept that uses technology to observe, measure, and respond to field variability in crops. Precision agriculture aims to optimize field-level management regarding crop farming by assessing the needs of individual plants or specific areas within a field, rather than applying a uniform treatment to the entire field [23]. Nanosensors play a crucial role in this approach by providing detailed, localized data that guides precise applications of water, fertilizers, and pesticides. For instance, in large-scale farming, nanosensors can map out areas of a field that require more attention, such as zones with poor soil quality or higher pest activity. This enables farmers to apply resources more efficiently, targeting only the areas that need treatment, thereby reducing input costs and minimizing environmental impacts. The role of nanosensors with GPS and drone technologies allows for automated monitoring and intervention, further enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of farm management practices [24]. The use of nanosensors in precision agriculture also supports sustainable farming practices. By reducing the overuse of fertilizers and pesticides, these sensors help lower the risk of soil degradation and water contamination, which are common issues in conventional farming methods. The ability to monitor crops and soil in real-time contributes to more resilient agricultural systems, capable of adapting to changing environmental conditions and mitigating the effects of climate change.
Nano-pesticides
Nano-pesticides represent a transformative advancement in pest management, utilizing nanotechnology to enhance the effectiveness, precision, and safety of pesticide applications. Traditional pesticides, while effective, often face challenges such as rapid degradation, inefficient delivery, and non-specific targeting, which can lead to excessive chemical use, environmental contamination, and harm to non-target organisms. Nano-pesticides address these issues by incorporating active ingredients into nanoscale carriers or encapsulating them within nanomaterials, which can be engineered to release the pesticide in a controlled and sustained manner [25]. This innovative approach not only improves the stability and bioavailability of the active ingredients but also allows for targeted pest control, minimizing the overall amount of chemicals required and reducing the environmental footprint of pest management practices. One of the key advantages of nano-pesticides is their ability to deliver targeted pest control. By designing nanoparticles that can recognize and bind to specific pest organisms or plant tissues, nano-pesticides can ensure that the active ingredients are released precisely where they are needed, and in the right amounts. This targeted delivery minimizes off-target effects, reducing the impact on beneficial insects, soil microorganisms, and surrounding vegetation. Additionally, the controlled release mechanisms of nano-pesticides mean that the active compounds are gradually released over time, maintaining effective pest control for longer periods and reducing the need for frequent reapplication [26]. This results in significant reductions in the overall quantity of pesticides used, lowering costs for farmers and decreasing the risk of pesticide resistance developing in pest populations. By using nano-pesticides, farmers can achieve more effective pest management with less environmental disruptions, contributing to more sustainable agricultural practices. While nano-pesticides offer numerous benefits, their environmental impact and safety considerations are critical aspects that must be carefully managed [27]. The use of nanomaterials in agriculture introduces new variables in terms of toxicity, bioaccumulation, and the potential for unintended ecological consequences. It is essential to ensure that the nanomaterials used in these pesticides do not persist in the environment or accumulate in non-target organisms, where they could cause harm. Rigorous testing and regulation are necessary to assess the long-term effects of nano-pesticides on soil health, water quality, and biodiversity. Additionally, the development of biodegradable or environmentally benign nanomaterials is a priority to minimize any potential negative impacts. Despite these concerns, nano-pesticides hold the promise of reducing the overall environmental burden associated with conventional pesticide use. By lowering the amount of chemical inputs needed and enhancing their efficiency, nano-pesticides can help reduce the contamination of water bodies, soil degradation, and harm to non-target species [28]. Furthermore, by enabling more precise pest control, they can contribute to the reduction of pesticide residues in food products, enhancing food safety for consumers. The continued research and development of nano-pesticides, coupled with robust safety assessments and regulatory frameworks, will be crucial in ensuring that their adoption in agriculture leads to positive outcomes for both food production and environmental sustainability.
FOOD PRESERVATION AND SAFETY
Nanocoatings for Food Packaging
Nanocoatings for food packaging are an innovative application of nanotechnology that plays a crucial role in extending the shelf life of food products and preventing contamination. These ultra-thin, nanoscale layers are applied to packaging materials to create protective barriers that are highly effective against moisture, gases, and microbial contaminants. Traditional food packaging often struggles to maintain the freshness of perishable items, leading to spoilage and significant food waste [29]. Nanocoatings address these challenges by offering enhanced barrier properties, such as improved resistance to oxygen and water vapor transmission, which are critical factors in preserving the quality and safety of food. Nanocoatings can be designed with antimicrobial properties, actively inhibiting the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens on the food surface, thereby reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses [30]. This innovative approach not only improves the longevity of food products but also contributes to food safety and reduces the reliance on chemical preservatives. The primary function of nanocoatings in food packaging is to extend the shelf-life of food products by creating a more effective barrier against external factors that contribute to spoilage [31]. By controlling the exchange of gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide, as well as moisture, nanocoatings help maintain the optimal internal environment of the packaging, slowing down the degradation processes of food items. For example, fruits and vegetables often release ethylene gas as they ripen, which can accelerate spoilage if not properly managed [32]. Nanocoatings can incorporate ethylene scavengers that capture and neutralize this gas, thereby extending the freshness of produce. Additionally, nanocoatings can be infused with antimicrobial agents, which actively protect food from microbial contamination throughout the supply chain. This is particularly important for perishable items such as dairy products, meats, and seafood, where contamination risks are high. By preventing microbial growth, nanocoatings help ensure that food remains safe to consume, even under fluctuating storage conditions. Nanocoatings have diverse applications in both perishable and processed foods, making them an essential technology in modern food packaging. For perishable foods, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products, nanocoatings provide a protective layer that helps to retain moisture, prevent oxidation, and inhibit microbial activity [33]. This not only preserves the taste, texture, and nutritional value of the food but also reduces food waste by extending the time these products remain fresh and safe to eat. In processed foods, nanocoatings can be used to improve the packaging of items like snacks, baked goods, and ready-to- eat meals by enhancing barrier properties that protect against environmental factors like humidity and oxygen, which can cause staleness or rancidity. The versatility of nanocoatings allows for their application in various packaging materials, including plastics, paper, and even biodegradable options. In the packaging of processed foods, nanocoatings can be used to create active packaging that not only protects the food but also interacts with it to release preservatives or absorb unwanted substances, such as excess moisture or odors [34]. This adaptive functionality is particularly beneficial for maintaining the quality of processed foods during long storage or transportation periods.
Nanosensors for Food Safety
Nanosensors are emerging as a powerful tool in food safety, offering advanced capabilities for the rapid and accurate detection of pathogens and contaminants in food products. These nanoscale sensors are designed to detect minute traces of harmful substances, such as bacteria, viruses, toxins, heavy metals, and chemical residues, that can compromise food safety and pose significant health risks to consumers [35]. Traditional methods of detecting contaminants in food often involve time-consuming laboratory tests, which may delay the identification of foodborne hazards and lead to widespread outbreaks before action can be taken. Nanosensors, on the other hand, can provide real-time, on-site detection, enabling immediate responses to potential threats. By incorporating highly sensitive nanomaterials, such as nanoparticles, nanotubes, and nanowires, these sensors can identify contaminants at extremely low concentrations, offering a level of precision and speed that surpasses conventional testing methods [36]. This capability is crucial for ensuring the safety of food products from the point of production through to consumption. The detection of pathogens and contaminants is a critical application of nanosensors in food safety. These nanosensors can be engineered to recognize specific molecular signatures associated with harmful microbes or chemical substances. For example, nanosensors can be functionalized with antibodies, DNA sequences, or other biomolecules that selectively bind to the surface proteins or genetic material of pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella, or Listeria [37]. Once the target pathogen is detected, the nanosensor generates a detectable signal, such as a change in color, fluorescence, or electrical current, indicating the presence of contamination. This rapid detection capability allows for timely intervention, such as the removal of contaminated products from the supply chain, before they reach consumers. Additionally, nanosensors can be used to monitor for allergens, pesticide residues, and other harmful chemicals, ensuring that food products meet safety standards and are free from substances that could trigger adverse health effects. Nanosensors in supply chain monitoring systems represent a significant advancement in ensuring food safety from farm to table. The food supply chain is complex and involves multiple stages, including production, processing, packaging, transportation, and retail. At each stage, there is potential for contamination to occur, making continuous monitoring essential [38]. Nanosensors can be embedded in packaging materials, storage environments, and transport containers to provide real-time data on the condition of food products as they move through the supply chain. For instance, nanosensors can monitor temperature, humidity, and the presence of spoilage indicators, providing early warnings of compromised conditions that could lead to contamination or spoilage. This real-time data can be transmitted to central monitoring systems, allowing for immediate corrective actions, such as adjusting storage conditions, rerouting shipments, or recalling products before they reach consumers. The use of nanosensors in supply chain monitoring enhances traceability and transparency, key components of modern food safety systems [39]. By continuously tracking the condition of food products and detecting any signs of contamination, nanosensors help build trust between producers, retailers, and consumers. They also provide valuable data for improving supply chain management practices, reducing food waste, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. As the technology evolves, the potential to use nanosensors with other smart technologies, such as blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT), could further enhance the accuracy, reliability, and efficiency of food safety monitoring across global supply chains [40].
Nanomaterials in Food Processing
Nanomaterials, which operate at the nanoscale, have unique properties that allow them to interact with food components in ways that are not possible with conventional ingredients or additives. In food processing, nanomaterials can be used to improve the stability and bioavailability of nutrients, protect sensitive ingredients during processing, and create novel textures and flavors that enhance the overall consumer experience. The use of nanotechnology in this domain is paving the way for the development of healthier, more enjoyable, and longer-lasting food products, addressing consumer demands for both quality and nutrition [41]. Nanomaterials play a critical role in enhancing the quality and nutritional value of food products. One of the key applications is the encapsulation of vitamins, minerals, and other bioactive compounds in nanocarriers, which protects these nutrients from degradation during processing and storage. This ensures that the nutrients remain potent until the point of consumption, significantly increasing their effectiveness. For instance, omega-3 fatty acids, which are prone to oxidation, can be encapsulated in nanoemulsions to prevent spoilage and preserve their health benefits in functional foods [42]. Additionally, nanomaterials can be designed to improve the absorption of nutrients in the body. Nano-sized particles have a larger surface area and can more easily penetrate biological barriers, making nutrients more bioavailable. This is particularly important for enhancing the delivery of essential nutrients like iron, calcium, and vitamins, which can be challenging to absorb in sufficient quantities from conventional food sources. Beyond improving nutritional content, nanomaterials are also revolutionizing the way food is experienced in terms of texture and flavor. In food processing, nanomaterials can be used to create novel textures that are otherwise difficult to achieve [43]. For example, nanoparticles can be used to stabilize emulsions, resulting in creamy textures in low-fat products that mimic the mouthfeel of full-fat versions. This allows food manufacturers to produce healthier alternatives without compromising on sensory appeal. Additionally, nanomaterials can be engineered to control the release of flavors, providing a more intense and prolonged taste experience. For example, nanocapsules containing flavor compounds can be designed to break down at specific points during chewing or digestion, releasing flavors in stages and enhancing the overall taste experience [44]. They also enable the modification of food structures at a molecular level, allowing for the creation of innovative food products with unique properties. For instance, aerogels and nanofoams can be incorporated into foods to create light, airy textures that add novelty and appeal to traditional products. The ability to manipulate food at the nanoscale also opens up possibilities for developing customized flavors and textures tailored to individual preferences or dietary needs, offering a more personalized eating experience.
INNOVATIONS IN AGRI-NANOTECH
Smart delivery systems utilize nanomaterials to encapsulate or bind active ingredients, such as fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, or growth regulators, and release them in a controlled, targeted manner over time. Traditional agricultural practices often involve the application of large quantities of chemicals, much of which can be lost due to volatilization, leaching, or degradation before they benefit the crops [45]. Smart delivery systems address these inefficiencies by ensuring that active ingredients are delivered directly to the plants or soil, precisely when and where they are needed, thereby maximizing their efficacy while minimizing environmental impact and reducing costs. The core feature of smart delivery systems is their ability to control the release of nutrients and agrochemicals, tailored to the specific needs of crops throughout their growth cycle. This is achieved through the use of nanocarriers, such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, and nanoclays, which can be engineered to respond to various environmental triggers like pH, temperature, or moisture levels. For example, a smart delivery system might release nutrients in response to the moisture level in the soil, ensuring that plants receive nourishment during critical growth phases or in response to drought conditions [46]. Similarly, pesticides encapsulated in nanocarriers can be released gradually, providing prolonged protection against pests and reducing the frequency of applications. This precision in timing and location not only enhances the effectiveness of the agrochemicals but also significantly reduces the risk of runoff and contamination of water bodies, soil degradation, and harm to non-target organisms. The practical benefits of smart delivery systems have been demonstrated in various field applications, showcasing their potential to revolutionize modern agriculture. One notable case study involved the use of nano-encapsulated fertilizers in rice cultivation. In this study, the smart delivery system enabled a slow and sustained release of nitrogen, which significantly increased nitrogen use efficiency and resulted in a 20-30% improvement in crop yield compared to conventional fertilizers [47]. Another example is the use of smart delivery systems for herbicides in maize fields, where the controlled release of herbicides reduced weed growth while minimizing the impact on soil health and non-target plant species [48]. In a similar vein, a study on tomato plants demonstrated that using nanocarrier-based pesticides resulted in better pest control and higher fruit yield, with fewer pesticide applications required throughout the growing season. These case studies highlight the potential of smart delivery systems to enhance agricultural productivity, reduce input costs, and promote sustainable farming practices. By improving the efficiency and effectiveness of nutrient and agrochemical applications, these systems contribute to the overall goal of precision agriculture, where inputs are used more judiciously, and environmental impacts are minimized, as depicted in Fig. (1.1). As smart delivery technologies continue to evolve, they hold the promise of further innovations in agriculture, helping to meet the growing global demand for food in a more sustainable and resource-efficient manner.
Fig. (1.1)) Role of nanofertilizers/nano pesticides in improving crop yield.
