Copper-Based Nanoparticles for Pesticide Effects

Abstract

In recent years, engineered nanoparticles have been the focus of intensive scientific and technological development in different applications, including agriculture and food production/security. Copper-based nanoparticles have interesting features, such as low production cost and potent antimicrobial actions at concentrations considered safe to humans and to the environment, making them good candidates for agricultural applications. Moreover, copper-based nanomaterials can be prepared not only by traditional chemical and physical methods but also by green routes involving biogenic methods in a sustainable manner. Copper is involved in plant growth, metabolism, and defense, and it has been used in agriculture as a key player in fungicides in the combat of plant diseases. Recently, the design of copper-based nanoparticles has opened new avenues to protect and defend crops, with superior results and lower toxic effects compared with bulk copper (massive copper). In this scenario, the current chapter presents and discusses recent progress in the design and applications of copper-based nanoparticles with potent antimicrobial applications for agricultural pest management, green routes to synthesize the nanoparticles, and recent progress in the applications of copper-based nanoparticles as pesticides, as well as their phytotoxic activity. We hope that this chapter opens new avenues in this important topic involving nanotechnology and agriculture.