Chapter 8 - Effects, uptake and translocation of Ag-based nanoparticles in plants

Abstract

Nanomaterials deal with sizes of 100nm or smaller in at least one dimension which allows for plant uptake and transferred through the leaves. Plants' responses to nanoparticles vary depending on plant species, vegetative stage, age and nature of the nanoparticles. The utilization of nanoparticles in agriculture can decrease the addition chemical fertilizers to plants and contribute to accuracy farming as it decreases fertilizer loss and in turn environmental contamination due to agricultural malpractices. Because nanoparticles are ubiquitous in the environment and plants are key players of all ecosystems, nanoparticles will inevitably interact with plants. These interactions may lead to the uptake and accumulation of nanomaterials in the plant and widely affect their distribution in the environment. Usages of nanotechnology in agricultural and natural resources include the use of this technology in fertilizers and pesticides, conversion of food wastes to energy, chemical sensors, water treatment, prevention of plant diseases, food packaging, improvement seed germination and plant growth. Silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) are one of the most widely applied nanoparticles due to their excellent antiviral, antibacterial, photochemical and physicochemical properties. Moreover, Ag-NPs have a positive significant influence on plants growth and seed germination, better seedling establishment, resistance to salinity stress, and improving root elongation and plant production, etc. Nevertheless, in spite of numerous positive impacts, there are several references reporting on the harmful consequences of Ag-NPs applications on seed germination and plant growth. In general, careful consideration of the possible impacts of Ag-NPs on health, the environment and biological magnification can lead to improved design and uses of nanotechnology in sustainable agriculture and a healthy food chain.