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Enhancing Maize Yield and Quality with Metal-Based Nanoparticles without Translocation Risks: A Brief Field Study
Dávid Ernst1, Marek Kolenčík1, Martin Šebesta2
1Institute of Agronomic Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology and Food Resources, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia.
Plants (Basel, Switzerland)
|July 27, 2024
Summary
Gold and zinc oxide nanoparticles significantly boosted maize yield and protein content in field trials. These nanomaterials offer a safe and effective approach for sustainable agriculture, with no adverse effects on grain quality.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Nanotechnology
- Plant Physiology
Background:
- Nanoparticles (NPs) have shown potential for crop yield intensification in previous studies.
- The effects of specific NPs on maize (Zea mays L.) quantitative, qualitative, and yield parameters in field conditions require further investigation.
- Assessing NP translocation is crucial for understanding their safety and environmental impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the field effects of zinc oxide (ZnO-NPs), gold NPs anchored to meso-biosilica (Au-NP-bioSi), and titanium dioxide (TiO2-NPs) on maize.
- To determine the impact of these NPs on yield, yield components, and nutritional quality (minerals, starch, crude protein).
- To investigate the potential hazardous translocation of NPs in maize.
Main Methods:
- Field experiment conducted in Central Europe during the 2021 vegetation season.
- Application of ZnO-NPs, Au-NP-bioSi, and TiO2-NPs as biological stimulants.
- Assessment of plant number, yield, yield components, mineral nutrients, starch, crude protein, and NP translocation.
Main Results:
- Au-NP-bioSi and ZnO-NPs treatments significantly enhanced maize yield and yield components.
- NP-free variant showed the highest phosphorus levels; Au-NP-bioSi and ZnO-NPs optimized crude protein content.
- Starch content was similar across TiO2-NPs, Au-NP-bioSi, and control groups. No hazardous NP translocation or negative impact on grain quality was observed.
Conclusions:
- Gold and zinc oxide nanoparticles are effective biological stimulants for improving maize yield and quality.
- NPs can be utilized as a tool for precise and sustainable agriculture without compromising grain safety.
- Further research into NP-crop interactions can optimize agricultural practices.
