Lignin, found in some plant cell walls, is a byproduct of paper production. A nanoparticle measures at the “nano”-scale, based on one-billionth of a meter. Combined, lignin in a nanoparticle form has the potential to deliver inputs to soybeans. This project engineers nanoparticles to carry agricultural inputs, starting with a soybean seed treatment fungicide. Research covers nanoparticle synthesis and characterization, testing the impact of nanoparticle seed treatment on soybean health and insect susceptibility and determining if nanoparticles with entrapped fungicides improve seedling disease control, plant stands, vigor, and yield.
Key Benefactors:
farmers, agronomists, Extension agents, chemical companies