INCT NanoAgro develops nanotechnology for Lufenuron application

INCT NanoAgro (National Institute of Science and Technology in Nanotechnology for Sustainable Agriculture) has developed an advanced pesticide delivery system that uses polycaprolactone (PCL) nanoparticles to encapsulate lufenuron. 

This molecule is an insect growth regulator widely used in Brazil to control the soybean looper (Rachiplusia nu).

According to the researchers responsible, the research focused on improving the pesticide's stability, efficacy, and environmental safety. To this end, the team tested the new nano-encapsulated formulations in the laboratory (in vitro) and under semi-field conditions (in vivo).

The conventional commercial formulation eliminated almost 100% of the pest's larvae at the maximum dose. However, the advantage of the nano-encapsulated version was maintaining high levels of efficacy even at lower doses.

According to the researchers, the nanotechnology used ensures greater protection of the active ingredient, gradual control of product release, and less degradation over time. "The nanoparticles act as small capsules that release the pesticide in a more controlled manner, maintaining its action for longer and requiring fewer applications," explained Marcos Lenz, one of the researchers involved in the study.

The tests carried out showed that, in a realistic environment (in vivo), the formulation maintained a control rate above 90% at the recommended concentration. Performance dropped at lower concentrations, but the researchers see this as an important step for the future of nanopesticides.

"It is crucial to continue testing these formulations under different environmental conditions to understand how they behave in the field. The goal is to fine-tune the concentration of the active ingredient in the nanoparticles, further increasing their competitiveness and sustainability," Lenz said.

For him, this strategy, which is both efficient and less aggressive to the environment, could be a game-changer for agribusiness, especially in a context where the excessive use of pesticides is the target of increasing criticism.

The researchers at INCT NanoAgro expect the research to advance to further optimize the concentration of the active ingredient in the nanoparticles and expand tests on different types of crops and climates.

According to Lenz, in the long term, technologies like this could drastically reduce the volume of pesticides used on crops, preserving productivity without compromising biodiversity.

(Editing by Leonardo Gottems, reporter for AgroPages)