Fungal green biosynthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) is a promising eco-friendly method for mass-scale production. In the present study Ag, CuO and ZnO nanoparticles were biogenically synthetized using a cell filtrate of a strain of Trichoderma harzianum as a reducer and stabilizer agent. The structure, morphology and physicochemical properties of the NPs were characterized through transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, wide angle X-ray scattering and thermogravimetric analysis. Since nanotechnology could offer promising applications in agricultural area, we evaluated the ability of the NPs to reduce the growth of important fungal phytopathogens as Alternaria alternata, Pyricularia oryzae and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. Silver and CuO NPs reduced significantly the mycelial growth of A. alternata and P. oryzae in a dose dependent manner. This is the first report of a multiple extracellular biosynthesis of NPs from T. harzianum and the first time that CuO and ZnO NPs were obtained from this fungus. In addition, we highlighted the rapid production of NPs, as well as, the potential of Ag and CuO for the control of phytopathogens. On the other hand, the three types of NPs could be easily and sustainably produced on a large scale with the chance of having multiple applications in biotechnological processes.

This work is aimed to develop antifungal lms from nanocomplexes based on egg white protein nanogels (EWPn) and phenolic compounds (PC), carvacrol (CAR) and thymol (THY). EWPn-PC nanocomplexes were characterized by intrinsic uorescence spectroscopy, particle size (DLS), ζ potential, encapsulation e ciency (EE), and antifungal properties. Nanocomplexes with proper encapsulation e ciency (> 80%) and antifungal activity against A. niger were obtained. Films were obtained by a casting process (40°C, 48 h) using glycerol as a plasticizing agent. EWPn-PC lms were transparent and slightly yellow. SEM images revealed a porous, compact, and homogeneous microstructure. Tensile tests indicated less exibility, breakability, and rigidity regarding the EWPn control lm. Thermal analysis (DSC and TGA) highlighted an amorphous nature and resistance to high temperatures (~ 150°C). Moreover, they were permeable to water vapor and able to adsorb variable water amounts. Finally, their antifungal properties were veri ed using a sample of preservative-free bread. EWPn-PC lms were able to prevent the fungal spoilage for 30 days of storage at 25°C. Sensory analysis for bread stored with EWPn-PC lms indicated acceptability above the indifference threshold (> 5).