Chapter 10 - Nanotechnology in controlled-release fertilizers

Abstract

Traditional or conventional release of fertilizers leads to the wastage of about 50% of the used fertilizers to the soil, water bodies, and to the environment. Only very small portion of the applied fertilizers will benefit the plants. This leads to the repeated use of fertilizers and in turn increases the labor and cost. To minimize the loss of fertilizers by enhancing the availability of fertilizers to the plants, scientists have adopted many modern techniques. Among these techniques, the most important and powerful technique is the development of nanotechnology for the controlled release of fertilizers and pesticides in the agriculture fields. Development of nanocarriers, nanofertilizers, and nanosensors has improved fertilizer efficiency with minimum wastage. However, nanotoxicity is a major concern in developing nano-based fertilizers. In this chapter, we discuss about the different types of nano-based fertilizers, methods of preparation, advantages, and nanotoxicity.