Applications of Nanotechnology in Agriculture: An Overview

Abstract

Agriculture provides food for humans, directly and indirectly. Given the increasing world population, it is necessary to use the modern technologies such as nanotechnology in agricultural sciences. Nanotechnology has been defined as relating to materials, systems and processes which operate at a scale of 100 nanometers (nm) or less. Nanotechnology has many applications in all stages of production, processing, storing, packaging and transport of agricultural products. Nanotechnology will revolutionize agriculture and food industry by innovation new techniques such as: precision farming techniques, enhancing the ability of plants to absorb nutrients, more efficient and targeted use of inputs, disease detection and control diseases, withstand environmental pressures and effective systems for processing, storage and packaging. Increase the efficiency of applied fertilizer with the help of nano clays and zeolites and restoration of soil fertility by releasing fixed nutrients. Research on smart seeds programmed to germinate under favourable conditions with nanopolymer coating are encouraging. Nanoherbicides are being developed to address the problems in perennial weed management and exhausting weed seed bank. Efficiency of medicine increases by use of nano particle in animal sciences. Silver and iron nano particle are used in the treatment and disinfection of livestock and poultry. Levels of environment pollution can be evaluation quickly by nano smart dust and gas sensors.