Investigation of Nanocellulose-Beads as an Agricultural ‘NanoCAB’ Nutrient (i.e., Cu, Zi, or Mg) Delivery System

Graduate #37
Discipline: Chemistry and Chemical Sciences
Subcategory: Chemistry (not Biochemistry)

Demetrius Finley - Tuskegee University
Co-Author(s): Donald White, Tuskegee University, Tuskegee Al. Dr. Michael Curry, Tuskegee University, Tuskegee AL

Under current methods used to deliver micronutrients to the plant or soil, increased runoffs have left a significant amount of our crops untreated. Furthermore, most of these nutrients are immobile once delivered; if the nutrient lands on the leaf it is now trapped in that position. Hence it is imperative that we develop new delivery methods that are eco-friendly and mobile. That being stated, our research focuses on the use of nanocellulose as alternative vehicle for the delivery of micronutrients to the plant and the soil. Cellulose is a natural organic polymer that can be extracted from any plant biomass source and converted to nanocellulose via strong acid hydrolysis. Its unique structure allows for varying functionalization that can alter its physiochemical and mechanical properties, which renders it perfect for use as an Agricultural delivery system – NanoCAB. Furthermore, cellulose has been reported to be used in different types of pharmaceuticals such as extended and delayed release coated dosage forms, extended and controlled release matrices, osmotic drug delivery systems, bioadhesives and mucon adhesives, just to name few. In this report, we will investigate the use of nanocellulose-beads as an Agricultural delivery system “NanoCAB” for copper, magnesium, zinc. Thus far, we have synthesis millimeter sized Micro-crystalline cellulose-beads, and a nanoreactor to scale-up the production of copper, magnesium, and zinc nanoparticles. Subsequently, the influence of functional groups on the release rate of nutrients under certain conditions will be tested.

Not Submitted

Funder Acknowledgement(s): CREST

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Micheal Curry, currym@mytu.tuskegee.edu

Role: I have completed 90% of the work to be presented.