Sustainable lignin-modified epoxy nanocarriers for enhanced foliar insecticide efficacy and food safety

Reducing pesticide residues while extending their efficacy period is a critical challenge in the development of controlled-release pesticides. This study focuses on loading avermectin onto lignin-modified epoxy resin nanocarriers via the creation of photostable nanocapsules (NCs) for evaluating their efficacy against Plutella xylostella. This study also assesses the NCs' resistance to water scour on plant leaves by comparing them with traditional preparations. These NCs feature a stable core-shell structure, an encapsulation efficiency of 92.90 % and slow-release properties. Compared to emulsifiable concentrate (EC) and microemulsion (ME) under UV irradiation, the loading of nanocarriers significantly prolonged the degradation time of avermectin by fivefold. The Nano-formula demonstrated enhanced insecticidal activity in comparison to traditional preparations. Field tests revealed that the efficacy of the NCs on Day 7 (92.55 %) and Day 14 (78.54 %) significantly surpassed that of traditional preparations. Additionally, NCs are more readily washed off cabbage leaves by water than EC and ME, aiding in the reduction of pesticide residues. This technology is particularly suitable for leafy vegetable crops in arid regions or greenhouses, enhancing effectiveness period while minimizing pesticide residues. This research offers novel insights and directions for the development of controlled-release pesticides.