Nano‐EMB‐SP improves the solubility, foliar affinity, photostability and bioactivity of emamectin benzoate

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Emamectin benzoate (EMB), a frequently used biopesticide, is poorly soluble in water, making it difficult to wet the leaf surface, is prone to degrade in sunlight and readily loses its bioactivity. Traditional methods such as organic solvent application, pH adjustment and addition of photoprotectants either increase the economic and environmental costs or barely achieve the desired goal. We hypothesized that nanotechnology could improve the solubility, foliar affinity, photostability and bioactivity of EMB. This research set out to prepare a nano-EMB solid powder (nano-EMB-SP) and test this hypothesis.RESULTS: Nano-EMB-SP was prepared using a self-emulsifying method combined with carrier solidification. The mean particle size and Polydispersity index (PDI) of nano-EMB-SP were 14.64 nm and 0.24, respectively. A scanning electron microscopy image showed that EMB nanoparticles were mainly spherical or ellipsoidal in shape. Without organic solvent, the aqueous solubility of EMB in nano-EMB-SP was 4500 mg L −1 , at least 14-fold that of the EMB soluble granule (EMB-SG), which is solubilized by pH adjustment. Excellent foliar affinity of EMB was achieved by nano-EMB-SP, which completely wet and penetrated the superhydrophobic surface of cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.) leaf. Without photoprotectants, up to 82% of EMB content can be protected from ultraviolet (UV) damage in nano-EMB-SP. The combined effects of excellent photostability and foliar affinity of nano-EMB-SP led to the bioactivity of EMB being almost unchanged before and after UV radiation.CONCLUSION: Nano-EMB-SP is an eco-friendly and efficient way to improve the solubility, foliar affinity, photostability and bioactivity of EMB. This research provides a good approach to improving the efficacy of poorly soluble and UV-sensitive pesticides.

Size-dependent Effect on Foliar Utilization and Biocontrol Efficacy of Emamectin Benzoate Delivery Systems

“…The Nano-EB and Micro-EB were prepared using a self-emulsifying combined with a carrier solidification technique. , The detailed preparation procedure was as follows. First, emulsifier 600 and emulsifier 700 were dissolved in ethyl acetate.…”

“…Compared to conventional formulations, the small size, large specific surface area, enhanced foliar and target affinity, and elevated in-plant transportation of nanopesticides can substantially improve the solubility, dispersibility, stability, and effective utilization of poorly soluble pesticides. − Gao et al prepared an emamectin benzoate (EB) solid nanodispersion with a particle size of 14.6 nm using a self-emulsifying combined with a carrier solidification method. In the absence of organic solvent, the aqueous solubility of EB in the nanoformulation increased to 4500 mg L –1 , which was 14-fold that of commercial soluble granule . Mishra et al constructed a 169.2 nm permethrin dispersion with excellent stability by the solvent evaporation technique and demonstrated its biosafety toward beneficial bacteria .…”

Distribution of Emamectin Benzoate Granules in Maize Plants by Broadcasting into Maize Leaf Whorls

“…In addition, it also has a strong sublethal effect, which can significantly affect the life cycle of the offspring of FAW . At present, new formulations of EB, such as gels, nanoparticles, nanogel suspensions, and nanocapsules, have been developed ,− Good control efficacy against FAW can be obtained. However, the materials used in these preparations are usually expensive, and the preparation process is tedious and time-consuming. ,, Therefore, it is difficult to conduct large-scale production in a factory setting and promote their application in the field.…”

“…At present, new formulations of EB, such as gels, nanoparticles, nanogel suspensions, and nanocapsules, have been developed ,− Good control efficacy against FAW can be obtained. However, the materials used in these preparations are usually expensive, and the preparation process is tedious and time-consuming. ,, Therefore, it is difficult to conduct large-scale production in a factory setting and promote their application in the field. Additionally, it is necessary to ascertain the distribution of pesticides in maize plants before application in order to ensure food safety in field production. , …”

Design and Synthesis of a Water-Based Nanodelivery Pesticide System for Improved Efficacy and Safety

“…29 It is important to develop an environmentally friendly and safe nanodelivery system to improve the efficacy of pesticides and minimize environmental and health risks during application processes. It was previously reported that EB nanopesticides with different carrier materials and structures can significantly improve AIs' photostability, insecticidal activity, 30 contact area with targets, 31 and controllable release of pesticide in pests, 32 thereby improving their utilization and control effectiveness. These research results have provided good insights to investigate nanopesticide performance and promote effective applications.…”