Downsizing gum Arabic-based abamectin particles using flash nanoprecipitation method for enhanced pesticide...

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Materials Science
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Pesticides are crucial for crop yields but face challenges with low efficiency and environmental impact from carriers.
• Developing advanced pesticide formulations is essential for sustainable agriculture and reduced ecological harm.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and fabricate abamectin nanopesticides using natural polysaccharides and a co-stabiliser via flash nanoprecipitation (FNP).
• To enhance foliar affinity, deposition, and stability of pesticides while reducing particle size and environmental concerns.

Main Methods:

• Utilized flash nanoprecipitation (FNP) with gum arabic (GA) and various co-stabilisers to create abamectin nanopesticides.
• Investigated the impact of co-stabilisers and FNP process parameters on particle size, distribution, and stability.
• Evaluated nanopesticide retention on leaf surfaces and efficacy against Tetranychus urticae.

Main Results:

• Achieved significantly reduced particle size (111.5 nm) and narrow size distribution (PDI = 0.078) through synergistic effects of GA and co-stabilisers.
• Enhanced nanopesticide stability and controlled release performance.
• Demonstrated improved retention on leaf surfaces, minimizing pesticide loss and showing comparable efficacy to commercial formulations against Tetranychus urticae.

Conclusions:

• The FNP method offers precise control over nanopesticide size, enabling enhanced foliar deposition and reduced environmental impact.
• This approach provides an effective strategy for improving pesticide utilization efficiency and supporting sustainable agricultural practices.