Self-assembled degradable iron-doped mesoporous silica nanoparticles for the smart delivery of prochloraz to improve plant protection and reduce environmental impact

Abstract

Herein, a degradable silicon-based iron-doped nanoparticle (Fe-MSN) was prepared as a porous carrier. After loading the pesticide prochloraz (Pro), tannic acid (TA) was used to seal the pores and stabilize the nanocarrier structure. Due to the enough pore surface areas, the loading rate of Pro@Fe-MSNs/TA nanoparticles (Nps) was up to 31%. Nps possessed an excellent acid-responsive controlled-release of Pro and degradation behavior of the silica wall. Nanocarrier could effectively protect Pro against photodegradation and improve the storage stability of Pro. Pesticide deposition was enhanced by good wettability and Nps possessed better inhibitory efficacy against Rhizoctonia solani. The biosafety of Nps was evaluated and showed no obvious toxicological influence on cells and zebrafish. Furthermore, the pot experiment showed that nanocarriers could effectively promote the growth of wheat plants due to the rich supply of metal trace element. This study provides a promising strategy for sustainable crop disease management to reduce environmental risk. • Nanoparticles possessed an excellent acid-responsive controlled-release of prochloraz and degradation behavior of the silica wall. • The loading rate of nanoparticle was up to 31%. • Nanocarriers improved the stability and wettability of prochloraz. • Nanoparticles possessed better inhibitory efficacy against Rhizoctonia solani . • Iron-doped nanocarriers could effectively promote the growth of wheat plants.