Nano-Titanium-Chitosan Beads as a Biofungicidal Strategy against Anthracnose Stalk Rot in Maize

This study presents a sustainable approach to managing maize anthracnose stalk rot caused by Colletotrichum graminicola using alginate beads loaded with titanium nanoparticles (TiNPs) and chitosan nanoparticles (ChNPs). Encapsulation altered nanoparticle properties, as confirmed by UV-vis absorption at 210-270 nm, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) cross-linking signals. ζ-Potential and particle size distribution measurements indicated aggregation tendency of TiNPs, uniform dispersion of ChNPs, and heterogeneous surface charge-size in composite beads. Nanoparticle beads were spherical (4.5-5.2 nm), while composite were ellipsoidal (4.76 nm). ChNPs beads exhibited superior hydration, mass stability, and 81% antifungal activity, whereas composite beads showed 64% inhibition. Complete disease control was achieved in maize plants treated with beads of either ChNPs or TiNPs + ChNPs, accompanied by significant improvement in the plant performance attributes, both outperforming chemical fungicides. This research highlights nanoparticle-based alginate beads as a scalable, eco-friendly biofungicidal solution for agriculture.