A novel redox-responsive hydrogel for controlled release of agrochemicals and heavy metal ion capture was prepared, benefiting plant growth and soil remediation synchronously.

A novel pH and redox dual-responsive cellulose-based nanogel was prepared for the controlled release of agrochemicals. To synthesize the responsive nanogel, palmitoyl chloride and glyoxal were modified on carboxymethyl cellulose sequentially and 3,3′-dithiobis­(propionohydrazide) was used as a cross-linker to assemble the nanogel. The morphology, structure, and physical properties of nanogels were characterized with transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), particle size analysis, and zeta-potential measurement. Facing pH and redox stimulation, the nanogel showed reversible sol–gel transitions, indicating good pH- and redox-responsiveness. The nanogel loaded with agrochemicals exhibited high loading capacity and various release behaviors. In addition, the experiment of nanogel on heavy metal ions complexation displayed the potential of improving soil condition while delivering agrochemicals.

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