Metal–Organic-Frameworks: as Revolutionizing Material Utilized for Distinct Applications in Precision Farming

Global crop yields suffer significant yearly losses due to several phytopathogens, insects, pests, weeds, and nutrient deficiencies. Agrochemicals are the main force behind the ongoing advancement in modern agriculture and meet the demand for food security by ensuring greater productivity in the agriculture sector. The primary benefit of nanomaterials in the agriculture field is that, they enable the targeted and accurate delivery of agrochemicals. This has created novel possibilities to support the long-term growth of green agriculture due to the current innovations in the field of nanotechnology. The main point of this article is to focus on the recent advancements in MOFs (Metal Organic Frameworks) based nanoplatforms for the protection of crops, encompassing the management of phytopathogens, pests, weeds, as well as enhancing the overall growth and yield of crops via delivery of fertilizers and phytohormones. Hence, the production of novel and fascinating nanomaterials are important for their effective use in various applications including nano fertilizers, nano pesticides, water remediation and detection of heavy metals and toxins. Additionally, it also involves the implementation of biosensor to identify hazardous substances present in soil and water and for the regulated release of agrochemicals in agricultural fields. Due to the remarkable properties of MOFs including sorptive, hybrid compositions, recognition, pore volume, large surface area, and catalytic properties, it is extensively used in agriculture. The review highlights the recent advancement of MOFs used in modern agriculture which are employed in various contexts in the form of nano fertilizers, nano pesticides, and the removal of agrochemicals as well as environmental remediation.

Graphical abstract represents the advantages of MOFs and their mode of application in the agriculture field.