Nanofertilizers: A shifting paradigm for the sustainable agriculture
摘要
Noval technologies for the development of nanofertilizers have revolutionised modern agriculture and have improved nutrient delivery and efficacy. This new generation fertilizers composed of particles ranging from 1 nm to 100 nm, in contrast to the bulky chemical fertilizers. Owing to their increased surface area, nano-sized particles provide enhanced distribution and smart nutrient delivery to plants that proves their efficacy in terms of crop productivity and environmental sustainability. Plants can absorb nanofertilizers by foliage or roots depending upon the application methods and properties of the particles. They offer the potential for advanced formulations incorporating various active compounds such as growth promoting agents, in addition to being optimally efficient and less hazardous to the ecosystem. Nanofertilizers enhance the biotic and abiotic stress tolerance and disease resistance in plants. Although the benefits of nanofertilizers are undoubtedly opening new approaches towards sustainable agriculture, their challenges such as high production costs, lack of standardization, public awareness, ecological safety and regulatory standards need to be addressed for the market commercialization.