A new tool to screen biodegradable polymers as technically and commercially viable fertiliser coatings

The Science of The Total Environment, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 976, P. 179371 - 179371

Published: April 9, 2025

Polymer coated controlled release fertilisers can mitigate nutrient pollution by aligning to plant demand, thereby reducing losses, fertiliser application and potentially increasing yields. However, most current commercial products use polymers that do not readily degrade. This of non-degradable plastics coat is being phased out, opening new opportunities develop commercialise truly biodegradable coating alternatives. the technical challenge substantial. The needs eventually fully mineralise, leaving no microplastic legacy, yet it must also maintain good mechanical barrier properties for extended periods. work presents first effort a polymer material selection tool guide as coatings based on polymers' known considerations. Using mechanistic model, relationship was established between elongation required avoid rupture water vapour permeability (WVP) coating. Then, broad list commercially available assembled literature data their WVP at break collated. By comparing this model outcomes, likely achieve long term were shortlisted. further condensed setting maximum price minimum global production capacity viability. We have shortlisted polycaprolactone, polyurethane natural rubber strong candidates coatings. rate biodegradation requires investigation. Flexible polyhydroxyalkanoates, poly(butylene succinate) poly(propylene carbonate) are technically promising, but currently viable.

Language: Английский

Nanoparticle-Based Bioinsecticide for Insect Pest Control: Current Status and Future Trends in Agriculture

Nanotechnology in the life sciences, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: unknown, P. 279 - 291

Published: Jan. 1, 2024

Language: Английский

pH and Pectinase Dual-Responsive Zinc Oxide Core-Shell Nanopesticide: Efficient Control of Sclerotinia Disease and Reduction of Environmental Risks

Nanomaterials, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 14(24), P. 2022 - 2022

Published: Dec. 16, 2024

Sclerotinia sclerotiorum is one of the fungi that cause plant diseases. It damages plants by secreting large amounts oxalic acid and cell wall-degrading enzymes. To meet this challenge, we designed a new pH/enzyme dual-responsive nanopesticide Pro@ZnO@Pectin (PZP). This uses zinc oxide (ZnO) as carrier prochloraz (Pro) encapsulated with pectin. When encountering released sclerotiorum, acidic environment promotes decomposition ZnO; at same time, pectinase produced can also decompose outer pectin layer PZP, thereby promoting effective release active ingredient. Experimental data showed PZP was able to achieve an efficient rate 57.25% 68.46% when added or under conditions, respectively. In addition, in vitro tests antifungal effect comparable commercial Pro (Pro SC) on market, its efficacy 1.40 times 1.32 original drug TC), Crucially, application significantly alleviated detrimental impacts wheat development. Soil wetting experiments have proved primarily remained soil, decreasing likelihood contaminating water sources reducing potential risks non-target organisms. Moreover, improved foliar wettability Pro, lowering contact angle 75.06°. Residue analyses indicated did not elevate residue levels tomato fruits compared conventional applications, indicating formulation does lead excessive pesticide buildup. summary, shows great promise for effectively managing while minimizing environmental impact.

Language: Английский