Role of Chitin-Based Nanoparticles for Crop Nutrition and Fertilization
摘要
The escalating global demand for food production necessitates innovative solutions to enhance crop nutrition and fertilization while mitigating environmental impacts. This chapter explores the pivotal role of chitin-based nanoparticles in revolutionizing agricultural practices. Derived from the abundant biopolymer chitin, chitosan-based nanoparticles exhibit unique characteristics that make them promising candidates for improving nutrient delivery, controlled release, and fertilizer efficiency. These nanoparticles facilitate targeted delivery by encapsulating essential nutrients, reducing environmental pollution and ensuring sustained nutrient supply to plants. Additionally, their inherent antifungal properties contribute to soil health, offering a natural solution to combat soil-borne diseases. This abstract encapsulates the multifaceted contributions of chitin-based nanoparticles to sustainable agriculture, with the potential to reshape the future of crop nutrition. Recent studies have demonstrated the efficacy of chitin-based nanoparticles in enhancing crop nutrition and fertilization. For instance, researchers encapsulated nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium within chitosan nanoparticles and observed a significant improvement in crop nutrient uptake. The controlled release provided by these nanoparticles enhanced fertilizer efficiency and minimized nutrient leaching, addressing concerns related to environmental impact. Furthermore, field trials revealed reduced soil-borne diseases, showcasing the potential of chitin-based nanoparticles in promoting soil health. This example highlights the practical application of chitin-based nanoparticles in agriculture and their positive implications for crop yield and environmental sustainability.