Cui H., Zhang P., Gu W.
Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, CN
Keywords: crop disease control, nanobiomaterial, photosynthesis, TiO2 sol
Synthetic germicides have been widely used to control crop diseases. But they caused many problems such as environmental pollution and food safety issues. It has consequently become necessary to develop alternative methods for the control of crop diseases. The environmental friendly TiO2 photo-catalyst as nanobiomaterials has potential for agricultural application because of its photocatalytic disinfection and photobiological effects. Our group recently conducted some experimental researches on biological effects of TiO2 nano-particles in crop production. The preliminary results showed that TiO2 photocatalyst has significant effects in preventing crop fungal/bacteria diseases and promoting photosynthesis [1-3]. But the suspension of TiO2 nano-particles has low adhesion to plant leaves and therefore is difficult to fully perform their biological effects. This paper reported preparation and characterization of TiO2 sol, and its biological effects on the control of plant diseases and growth regulation. TiO2 sol was synthesized by Ichinose method from peroxotitannic acid solution, which is a neutral, viscous aqueous colloid of TiO2 with size of 10-50nm and 1.6% content of TiO2. XRD result showed that the crystal form of TiO2 nano-particles was anatase. Field experiment showed the TiO2 sol can form well-spread, transparent and sticky layer of TiO2 photocatalyst on the surface of plant, which could prevent plant from pathogens infection and improve photosynthetic performance. These results indicated that the nano-TiO2 sol can be developed as a kind of environmental-friendly plant germicide and growth regulator.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 2, Nanotechnology 2009: Life Sciences, Medicine, Diagnostics, Bio Materials and Composites
Published: May 3, 2009
Pages: 286 - 289
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Medical & Biotech
Topic: Biomaterials
ISBN: 978-1-4398-1783-4