Chapter 15 - Impact of Nanoparticles on Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants: An Overview

Abstract

Nanoparticles (NPs) are microscopic particles with at least one dimension in the 1–100nm size range. They possess different physical, chemical, and electrical properties than their bulk counterparts and thus open new avenues in the field of science, including the agriculture sector. In the last few decades plant and agricultural scientists have shown great interest in developing nanotechnological approaches to enhance crop productivity. For biotic and abiotic stress management in crop plants, engineered nanomaterials are applied in the form of nanosized fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, sensors, and smart delivery systems at low cost and using little energy. Abiotic stresses like drought, flood, nutrient deficiency, heat, light, metal stress, etc. are major constraints that affect growth and productivity of crop plants. The scientific community has a major concern to overcome loss in crop productivity induced by abiotic stress. Several NPs are being studied to assess their potential in protecting plants from abiotic stresses, improving plants, and modulating various plant processes. NPs have an impact at very low concentrations and their effects on plants are type and dose dependent; they have been shown to be an attractive alternative for the manufacture of nanofertilizers, which are more efficient and effective than traditional fertilizers. In seeking a sustainable future for agriculture, nanotechnology is gaining attention as a way to overcome problems related to abiotic and biotic stress. This chapter presents an overview of the use of NPs in abiotic stress responses in plants, highlighting their advantages and potential uses.