Nanotechnology and its importance in micronutrient fertilization

The increase in population and reduction of available land and water resources are major concern for agriculture to meet food requirement. The possible growth in agriculture can be achieved by increasing productivity through soil, water and nutrient management supported by an effective use of modern technology like nanotechnology. The small size, high specific surface area and reactivity of nano fertilizers compared to bulk fertilizers may increase the solubility, diffusion and availability of nutrients to plants and enhance crop productivity. Nanotechnology has provided the feasibility of exploring nanostructured materials as fertilizer carrier or controlled-release vectors for building of the so-called smart fertilizers, as new facilities to enhance the nutrient use efficiency and reduce the environmental pollution.