A review: Zinc oxide nanoparticles: advantages and disadvantages

Nanomaterials (NMs) have distinctive physicochemical characteristics and offer adaptable scaffolds for biomolecule functionalization. NMs have such a wide range of properties and use that a general evaluation of their health and environmental concerns is impossible. A necessary component of sustainable development is the application of nanotechnology (NT) research in the agricultural sector. The green revolution and new farming techniques have significantly increased crop yield but gradually reduced soil micronutrients, including Zn, Mo, and Fe. It is possible to employ NT to increase the availability of micronutrients for plants. The significant interests of using NT in agriculture include specific applications like nano-fertilizers and nano-pesticides to trail products and nutrient levels to increase productivity without contamination of soils and waters and protection against several insect pests and microbial diseases. However, as with the deployment of any new technology, a trustworthy risk-benefit analysis and thorough cost-accounting study are required. The majority of the arid zone soils are deficient in Zn. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are prevalent candidates for usage in the agribusiness and nourishment segments, such as pesticides, fungicides, and fertilizers. Also, the Food and Drug Administration recorded ZnO bulk particles (ZnO BPs) as a secure fabric and utilized it as a nourishment additive. This review article contributes to the enrichment of knowledge about the interactions of ZnO NPs with plant systems. It summarizes the possible advantages and disadvantages of ZnO NPs in agriculture and offers suggestions for future research.