Synthesis of bionanoparticles and their significance in soil nutrition and plant development

Abstract

The use of nanofertilizers in agriculture improves crop yields and reduces environmental impacts. Nanoparticles (NPs) have been demonstrated to boost production by delivering nutrients more precisely or slowly, reducing the need for as much fertilizer. Different methods, from physical and chemical to green (biological), may be used to create nanofertilizers. Compared to physicochemical methods, the green approach is preferred since it uses fewer chemicals, results in less chemical pollution, and is safer overall. A sustainable agricultural strategy nsitates consideration of the use of green-produced NPs as nanofertilizers. Uptake processes for plant growth are discussed, along with current advancements and uses of biologically produced metallic NPs for use as nanofertilizers. Also, this chapter sheds light on plant-based and microbial-based NPs as safe fertilizers in the agriculture sector. Recent developments in the biosynthesis and biochemical synthesis of NPs, such as biochemically generated metallic NPs and biologically produced polymeric NPs, and their in vitro mechanisms are discussed in this chapter. In addition, the introduction of organic, inorganic, and hybrid bioNPs, as well as their significance in plant development and as a fertilizer, has been briefly discussed. NP uses in farming are reviewed, along with the related toxicity issues. © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.