ABSTRACT
Development and application of new types of fertilizers using nanotechnology are one of potentially effective options for significant enhancement of the global food production. This entry summarizes reviews related to either engineered or natural nanomaterials, which improve overall plant growth and could be used as nanofertilizers for increasing agronomic yields. A list of the relevant nanomaterials is presented, and the entry is focused on chemical composition, particle size, particle concentration applied, plant species, and plant-growth enhancements. In addition, this entry classifies nanofertilizers into four categories: macronutrient nanofertilizers (e.g., apatite nanoparticles (NPs), calcium carbonate NPs, and magnesium oxide NPs), micronutrient nanofertilizers (e.g., iron oxide NPs, manganese oxide NPs, zinc oxide NPs, and copper oxide NPs), nutrient-loaded nanofertilizers (zeolites, silica NPs, and carbon nanotubes (CNTs)), and plant-growth stimulating nanomaterials (titanium oxide NPs and CNTs). Each category is discussed for its own specific importance, research direction, and requirements in new fertilizer development. This entry suggests that development of N and P macronutrient nanofertilizers are a high research priority for sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.
