Chemically Engineered Nanoparticles and Their Role in Agriculture

This chapter highlights the role of chemically engineered nanoparticles (NPs) in achieving sustainable and resilient agriculture. Chemically engineered NPs are derived from metals, carbon, polymers, silica, and composites. These engineered NPs offer effective solutions for making agriculture more productive and resilient to stresses. Metal-based NPs like silver and copper offer antimicrobial properties that protect crop plants from different pathogens. Some carbon-based NPs have the potential to improve soil structure and nutrient delivery. Controlled agrochemical release is achieved by using polymer-based NPs, while silica-based NPs have the potential to enhance water and nutrient uptake. An improved nutrient delivery pest management is achieved by using composite NPs. Delivering pesticides and fungicides via NPs can minimize nontarget impacts. In general, NPs enhance stress tolerance and promote plant growth by modulating enzyme activity, metabolic pathways, and signal transduction pathways.