IIT Mandi Researchers Develop Smart Biodegradable Microgels for Sustainable Agriculture

A team of researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has made an important breakthrough in the field of sustainable agriculture. They have developed natural polymer-based multifunctional smart microgels that can slowly release nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fertilizers. This innovative technology offers a promising solution to improve crop nutrition while reducing environmental damage.

A recent study published in the Carbohydrate Polymers journal sheds light on the use of biodegradable, redox-sensitive chitosan-based microgels in agriculture. The study was led by Dr. Garima Agrawal, Assistant Professor at the School of Chemical Sciences, IIT Mandi.

In modern agriculture, the excessive use of agrochemicals ranging from insecticides to fertilizers has become commonplace to meet the growing food demands of a growing population. However, this reliance comes at a cost, with these chemicals leaching into the soil, contaminating groundwater, and posing risks to both the environment and human health.

Dr. Agrawal highlights the research's aim to pioneer sustainable farming practices that mitigate the adverse impacts of conventional agrochemical usage. The biodegradable nature of these microgels ensures they break down over time, preventing soil and water contamination. Additionally, their stimuli-responsive feature allows for controlled release, reducing the risk of overexposure to agrochemicals.

The developed microgels, crafted from natural polymers, include environment-friendly attributes, including biodegradability and stimuli-responsive features, ensuring the gradual release of loaded agrochemicals over an extended period. Notably, these redox-sensitive chitosan-based microgels can adjust their release in response to environmental changes, promising a minimal ecological footprint.

The key innovation lies in the microgels' ability to slowly release nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers over an extended period, ensuring optimal nutrient uptake by plants while minimizing leaching and runoff. This sustainable delivery system offers a promising solution to enhance crop yield without compromising environmental integrity.

In trials with pea plants, the researchers observed no adverse effects on seed germination or plant growth, affirming the microgels' viability for agricultural applications. The sustained release of loaded insecticides over several days underscores their potential to reduce the need for frequent applications, while also enhancing nutrient uptake by plants.

The versatility of these microgels extends beyond nutrient delivery. Their high loading capacity for insecticides enables sustained release, effectively combating pests while minimizing chemical usage. Moreover, their foliar adhesion facilitates direct spraying, optimizing agrochemical application and reducing wastage. Moreover, they demonstrate efficacy in capturing heavy metal ions from the soil, fostering their utility in soil remediation efforts.

The research conducted at IIT Mandi represents a significant step towards sustainable agriculture. By harnessing the power of natural polymers and innovative delivery systems, these microgels offer a holistic solution to enhance crop productivity while safeguarding the environment. With further development and adoption, they have the potential to revolutionize farming practices and contribute to a more sustainable future.