Innovative formulations for agricultural applications

Over time the world’s population continues to grow [1], resulting in an increased demand for food and an intensification of agricultural practices. The extensive use of pesticides and fertilizers is a largely applied strategy, despite the drawbacks it brings like soil contamination, food pollution, and groundwater pollution [2]. In the agritech field the newest fertilizers and pesticides formulations are based on engineered nanomaterials. This innovative technology allows for the development of smart carriers designed for the delivery of fertilizers and pesticides to plants. By introducing chemical modifications, a smart carrier can be engineered to release the active ingredients (AIs) only upon stimulation from specific sources such as light, pH, temperature, or enzymes [3]. The transportation of AIs exclusively to the plant, triggered by an external stimulus, can lead to a reduction in soil and water pollution by minimizing the leaching. The employment of lignin as a bio-based surfactant represents a promising strategy in the creation of environmentally friendly smart delivery systems. This method is focused on lignin's amphiphilic characteristics, allowing for molecular self-assembly. In particular, the main lignin building blocks (p-coumaryl alcohol, coniferyl alcohol, sinapyl alcohol) contain an aromatic ring acting as the hydrophobic segment and hydroxyl groups acting as the hydrophilic segment. An eco-friendly strategy may involve the utilization of agricultural food waste to develop novel lignin-based carriers for fertilizers and pesticides. Particularly, lignocellulose, a complex material found in agricultural waste, has emerged as a promising solution to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly compounds in the agricultural sector. The application of lignocellulose extends to the production of smart pesticides [5], which are known for their biodegradability and non-toxic nature. The introduction of lignocellulosic smart carriers in agriculture has the power to transform the industry, facilitating the adoption of a circular economy model. This approach involves recycling agro-wastes to develop pesticides or fertilizers, ultimately boosting agricultural output and consequently increasing waste production. The circular model offers immense potential for utilizing lignocellulose as a sustainable surfactant in agricultural formulations, promoting bio- and eco-friendly practices.