Nanomaterial Transformation in the Soil–Plant System: Implications for Food Safety and Application in Agriculture

Abstract

Engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) have huge potential for improving use efficiency of agrochemicals, crop production, and soil health; however, the behavior and fate of ENMs and the potential for negative long‐term impacts to agroecosystems remain largely unknown. In particular, there is a lack of clear understanding of the transformation of ENMs in both soil and plant compartments. The transformation can be physical, chemical, and/or biological, and may occur in soil, at the plant interface, and/or inside the plant. Due to these highly dynamic processes, ENMs may acquire new properties distinct from their original profile; as such, the behavior, fate, and biological effects may also differ significantly. Several essential questions in terms of ENMs transformation are discussed, including the drivers and locations of ENM transformation in the soil–plant system and the effects of ENM transformation on analyte uptake, translocation, and toxicity. The main knowledge gaps in this area are highlighted and future research needs are outlined so as to ensure sustainable nanoenabled agricultural applications.

Environmental dimensions of the protein corona

“…The corona formed in leaves, soils, and from rhizospheres are currently unexplored, but elucidation of their composition will enable prediction of ENM uptake, development of plant sensors, and toxic response within major agricultural crops to help maintain food security with the increasing prevalence of ENMs in agricultural soils. 9,[102][103][104] Moreover, just as biomedical studies have identified proteins that target ENMs to key organs, so corona studies in plants can enhance efficacy of biopesticides through targeting and control of the corona. Further analysis of the role of the corona in ENM trophic transfer may also lead to guided reactivity of ENMs within specific plants or symbiotic microbes.…”

Alleviation of nitrogen stress in rice (Oryza sativa) by ceria nanoparticles

“…As noted by Lowry et al, 8 many challenges and barriers need to be overcome before the real potential of nanomaterials (NMs) in agriculture can be achieved. A major barrier is that the interaction of NMs with plants, and the effects of these interactions on the behaviour of NMs, such as the transformations in the soil and at the soil/root interface and the uptake in plants, 19 as well as on the plant growth, are deeply interrelated and their exploration have only begun recently. Additionally, the environmental safety and human safety of NMs and their residues in plants and soil lack sufficient understanding currently.…”

Recent advances in the aqueous applications of PEDOT

“…There is currently a global effort to fabricate and utilise emerging nanomaterials, nanocomposites, and nanostructured materials with desirable characteristics for use in aqueous environments, such as biological uids, aquatic ecosystems, and agricultural soil. [1][2][3][4][5] The biocompatibility and sustainability aspects of the desired nanomaterials have been widely investigated with the aim of addressing concerns about how they behave in the mentioned environments. [6][7][8][9] Subsequent to this, understanding and controlling the nanostructure and nanoscale dynamics of materials is also important to the devices integrating these materials.…”