Iron-based metal-organic-frameworks as fertilizers for hydroponically grown Phaseolus vulgaris

Developing efficient crop fertilization practices has become more and more important because of their demand for food production was increased. A porous iron-based metal-organic framework (Fe-MOF) was modified with ethylenediaminetetra-acetic dianhydride. The NMR and elemental analysis of the modified material (Fe-MOF-EDTA) show three pathways of modification. Ferrous-ethylenediaminetetra-acetic acid (Fe-EDTA), Fe-MOF and Fe-MOF-EDTA were applied to Phaseolus vulgaris plant in hydroponic culture. The effect of Fe-sources on plant growth rate, chlorophyll contents, protein and antioxidant enzymes activities of Phaseolus vulgaris was monitored. Results confirmed the superior actions of Fe-MOF-EDTA compared with other Fe-sources especially in plant weight, realizing 9.6% enhancement after 96 h of treatment, in addition to chlorophyll content, protein and enzymes activities. Collectively, these data revealed the enrichment effect of Fe-MOF-EDTA component in nutrient solutions which may be adopted as a strategy for improving the growth and quality parameters of Phaseolus vulgaris plants.