Spontaneously Formed Ratio-Tunable Micro- and Nano-Capsule Coexist System for Precision and on-Demand Fungicide...

Multiscale particle size functional pesticide carriers can provide more efficient protection for plants, but this protection is difficult to achieve via single-scale formulation technology. This study presents a novel one-step method for the preparation of lignin-based micro/nanocapsules with controllable proportions within a unified system. This strategy enables the adjustment of the proportion of nanocapsules to between 18.81% and 85.21%. The microcapsules (MCs) vary in diameter from 2 to 3 µm, whereas the nanocapsules (NCs) span from 160 to 220 nm, with an encapsulation efficiency exceeding 90%. An increased proportion of NCs in the system leads to faster release, heightened sensitivity to UV light, and enhanced penetration into the leaves. During Phytophthora capsici (P. capsici) infection, the NCs in the leaves interact with the defensive enzymes of the plant to quickly respond. Moreover, an optimal balance of MCs and NCs is key to effective fungicide use, not just a higher concentration of NCs. A 65:35 ratio of NCs to MCs ensures effective inhibition of P. capsici outside leaves and a rapid response to leaf invasion. This study enhances fungicide efficiency and advances the development of nanoresponsive fungicides to promote sustainable agricultural practices.