Nanotechnology-Based Delivery Systems: Highlights in Agricultural Applications

Abstract

Due to the excessive use of chemical agents in agriculture, numerous problems have arisen, such as contamination of the environment, intoxication of non-target organisms and the development of resistance mechanisms by pests. To overcome these challenges, several sustainable technological approaches are being explored, and nanotechnology is one of them. This review aims to provide insights into the use of nanotechnology related to the agricultural sector. Articles were selected using the Web of Science and Science Direct databases; more than 50 manuscripts between 2015 and 2019 were reviewed. This review includes systems based on nanotechnology, in particular, for the sustained release of active ingredients for pest control, nutrition and plant growth. Nanoparticle-based formulations have great potential to increase agricultural productivity and reduce health and environmental impacts. However, there are certain technological challenges that must be addressed to allow the adoption of this technology for wider use in agri-food production