Uptake, translocation, and nutrient efficiency of nano-bonechar as a plant growth regulator in hydroponics and soil systems

Abstract

The use of nanotechnology in terms of nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, and quantum dots, when exposed to the plants, helps increase their productivity. It is worth the effort to comprehend the fate of these nanoparticles in plants. Bonechar derived from bones is a rich source of C, P, Ca2+, and Mg2+ nutrients, which can significantly contribute to the growth of the plants. This study focused on the uptake of nano-bonechar (NBC) in the Syngonium podophyllum plant, and its effects on plant growth under hydroponics and soil systems. The compound microscopy and SEM-EDX results confirmed the presence of NBC in the leaves and roots of the plants in hydroponics and soil systems. The FTIR spectra reflected the presence of functional groups of the NBC in the leaves of the Syngonium podophyllum plant. The plant's growth parameters showed an increase in fresh weight, dry weight, shoot length, chlorophyll content, leaf count, total Ca2+, total PO43−, and total organic carbon of plants in both systems. The NBC not just improved plant physiochemical parameters but also built up the soil quality in terms of bioavailable Ca2+, PO43−, water holding capacity, and soil organic matter. It is concluded that the production of carbon-based NBC not only helps manage bone waste but also their efficient uptake in plants significantly improving plant productivity.