These nano-engineered particulate coatings (NPCs) allow for extended release of repellents/ pesticides. They help continually protect citrus plants and other crops from insect attacks and bacterial infestations, which cost billions in lost revenue and thousands of jobs every year. Citrus greening, a bacterial infection spread from plant to plant by insects, is particularly devastating and especially harmful to Florida’s $9.3 billion citrus industry. University of Florida researchers’ innovative nano-engineered particulate coatings use modified clay particles to continually release small amounts of repellent/pesticides. An extended release prevents actives from being washed away in rainwater, protecting the environment and allowing the same quantity of repellent/ pesticide to last longer. The NPCs provide crop protection to cover gaps between pesticide applications. Formulated to be hydrophobic (water-repelling), the NPCs strongly adhere to fresh flush and mature leaves for superior weather resistance.
Foliage adherent nano-engineered particulate coatings that release incorporated semiochemical (repellent) / pesticide slowly for crop protection
University of Florida researchers have created NPCs comprised of clay particles impregnated with repellents/ pesticides that can be released as a volatile in the presence of air or leached out as a liquid. The NPCs release repellents/pesticides slowly preventing attacks on plants during critical periods. These NPCs formulations are designed to adhere to leaves during inclement weather. The technology allows enables more effective management of agricultural diseases.
