Modern agriculture and nanotechnology

Abstract

Globally, many countries have identified the potential of nanotechnology in the agricultural sector. Therefore, they are investing significant funds into nanotechnological research. Developing countries also adopt their own nanotechnology programmes specifically focused on applications in agriculture. The development of nanotechnology in the long run is expected to emerge as an economic driving force in the agricultural industry.

Nanoproducts have been used recently in developing smart agricultural systems. For instance, nanosensors are used to identify plant health issues before they become visible. Sensors can respond to different situations by taking appropriate remedial action or they can alert the farmer to the problem. In this way, these smart devices act as both a preventive and an early warning system. Controlled and targeted drug delivery to specific tissues and organs has become highly successful, enabling high-precision treatment of different diseases such as cancer in animals. Researches have been underway on developing different technologies to create a system for the controlled release of fertilizers and pesticides aimed at enhancing their
uptake by the plant. Technologies such as encapsulation and controlled release methods have revolutionized the use of pesticides and herbicides. In the near future, nanostructured catalysts will be available and they will increase the efficacy of pesticides and herbicides, allowing lower rates to be applied. The above investigations are also aimed at reducing environmental pollution and making agriculture more environmentally friendly.

The Faculty of Agronomy in Čačak has studied the electrochemical synthesis and characterization of nanocrystalline powders of alloys for their potential application in many fields of technical science, agricultural production and food industry.