Carbon Nanotubes as Sensors in Food and Agricultural Applications

Abstract

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are emerging as one of the rising stars in the field of nanosensors due to their fascinating properties, such as good electronic and mechanical properties and high surface-to-volume ratios. As a promising tool for their applications in the field of food and agriculture, CNTs assure a crucial space for the nurture of greener environment. An appreciable improvement in the selectivity, sensitivity, and speed along with their small size, less power consumption, simplicity, and capability to detect complex analytes compared with the traditional methods are the superior traits of CNTs. This chapter is focused around the role of CNTs in the field of agriculture and food safety considering the growing need for development in that direction. Improvement of crop yield, reduction of applied agrochemicals, and improved farming methods using CNTs which are necessary for the realization of a smart agricultural sector within the limited areas and minimum negative environmental impact are discussed in this chapter. Furthermore, the part of CNTs in ensuring food safety is detailed giving special emphasis on quality assurance, prevention of food spoilage, and detection of food-borne pathogens. Concluding with a brief note on the negative impacts of CNTs on environment, we hope this chapter will provide the readers a compilation of the trends and 116developments of carbon nanotubes as sensors in food and agricultural applications.