Nanotechnology Applications in Agriculture for Crop Protection and Nutrient Delivery: A Review

Abstract

Nanotechnology has emerged as a revolutionary tool in modern agriculture, offering precision solutions for crop protection and nutrient management. The applications of nanotechnology in agriculture for crop protection and nutrient delivery. The application of engineered nanomaterials, including nano-fertilisers, nano-pesticides, and smart nanosensors, enables enhanced agricultural productivity, resource efficiency, and environmental sustainability. Nano-fertilisers, such as nano-urea, zinc oxide, and iron oxide nanoparticles, exhibit controlled release and improved bioavailability, resulting in up to 30–50% reduction in input use with comparable or superior yield outcomes. Nano-pesticides formulated with polymeric or metallic carriers enhance pest control efficacy at lower dosages through targeted delivery and reduced volatilisation. Nanosensors based on carbon nanotubes, quantum dots, and gold nanoparticles provide real-time monitoring of soil moisture, nutrient levels, and plant health, enabling site-specific management through integration with Internet of Things (IoT) platforms. Physiologically, nanoparticles modulate plant metabolic pathways, improve photosynthetic efficiency, and enhance abiotic stress tolerance by activating antioxidant defence mechanisms. Despite these advantages, environmental and biosafety concerns persist due to the potential mobility, persistence, and bioaccumulation of nanoparticles in soil, water, and food chains. Studies have confirmed nanoparticle translocation from roots to shoots and even into edible plant parts, raising the need for long-term ecotoxicological assessments. Regulatory bodies such as the OECD, FAO, and national agencies have developed initial safety, emphasising particle characterisation, exposure assessment, and lifecycle analysis. Field validation, transparent labelling, and stakeholder engagement remain key components for public acceptance and ethical deployment. As global agriculture faces increasing challenges from climate variability, resource depletion, and food insecurity, nanotechnology offers a scientifically grounded approach to optimise input use, reduce environmental footprints, and sustain crop productivity. Through interdisciplinary research, policy support, and inclusive education, nanotechnology can redefine the future of farming systems, contributing to climate-resilient, economically viable, and ecologically balanced agricultural practices.