Copper (Cu) pesticides are aggressively used in the agriculture industry worldwide on many crops. There is an increasing concern of Cu accumulation in field soil, Cu leaching potential into the surrounding ecosystem and development of bacterial resistance. Using nanotechnology, it is possible to reduce Cu amount per application without compromising overall efficacy. Moreover, Zn and Mg based nanomaterials can be developed for potential use as an alternative to Cu bactericides/fungicides. This presentation will focus on laboratory, greenhouse and field efficacy outcome of several nanoparticle composites, challenges towards developing industrially viable formulations and approaches to minimize regulatory challenges.
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