Synthesis and Characterization of Mesoporous Nanosilica Derived from Rice Husk Ash

Rice husk, an abundant agricultural byproduct, has garnered attention as a potential source of natural silica, a material with a myriad of applications. Natural silica is particularly attractive due to its low cost of production and safe handling. In this study, sodium silicate derived from rice husk ash was employed to create mesoporous nanosilica (MNS) via the sol-gel process. The extraction process commenced with the utilization of rice husk as a precursor for silica, capitalizing on its silica-rich composition. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis was performed to ascertain the presence of Si-O-Si bonds within the synthesized MNS. This critical step confirmed the successful formation of silica-based materials. Subsequently, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was employed, revealing a significant peak at 22 degrees, a clear indicator of the presence of crystalline silica. Examining the morphology of the MNS, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) results showcased a smooth surface and spherical morphology. Additionally, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) was employed, revealing the presence of nanoparticles smaller than 100 nanometers, which is indicative of the mesoporous nature of the synthesized nanosilica. Characterization techniques, including FTIR, XRD, FESEM, and HR-TEM, provided compelling evidence of successful nanosilica extraction. The findings underscore the potential of utilizing agricultural waste products for the sustainable production of valuable materials like nanosilica, which holds promise in various industrial applications. This research not only contributes to the valorization of agricultural residues but also aligns with the pursuit of eco-friendly and cost-effective materials for a wide range of applications.

Unraveling the Potential of Household Electrolytes on Extricating Imidacloprid Residues from Tomatoes: Toxicity Assessment

Farmers that cultivate tomatoes use imidacloprid to combat sucking bugs even while the fruits are being harvested so that they can maintain a five- to six-time harvest. Decontaminating tomato fruits before eating is absolutely necessary due to the insecticide's slow dissipation rate and the fact that residues last in vegetables for 15–25 days. The quality of fruit has been compromised and cannot be used in salads, despite the fact that various heat procedures are effective in removing imidacloprid residue. Therefore, a study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of common electrolytes, namely NaCl and NaHCO3, and their combinations, on imidacloprid removal from tomato fruits. Fruits and washing solutions were extracted for imidacloprid residue and determined using the UFLC-PDA besides optimizing the concentration and period of decontamination or washing without dietary risk. Results indicates that the washing of the fruits with NaCl @ 1, 2 and 3% solutions for 10 minutes are efficient (98-100% removal) in decontaminating to below hazard quotient when sprayed with recommended 20 g ai/ha. Whereas, the NaHCO3 or its combination with NaCl 1% for 10 minutes was found to be efficient (92-100%) in decontaminating the fruits when sprayed with 40 g ai/ha. Increasing the decontamination period beyond 10 minutes increased the residue load on fruits to above hazard quotient and was above 1.0 when NaCl was used. Study suggests the washing of tomato fruits with 2%NaHCO3 or 1%NaCl+2% NaHCO3 for 10 minutes is the efficient decontamination way and to ensure safety to the consumers.

Green Nanotechnology: Harnessing Rice Husk Ash for Nano-Silica and Characterization Insights

In the form of nanoparticles, silica is a significant inorganic component of rice husk. Consequently, it is feasible to extract high purity amorphous silica nanoparticles by straightforward thermo-chemical processes. So, in this study, an eco-friendly chemical treatment method (Green Synthesis) was used to try and manufacture amorphous silica nanoparticles from rice husk ash. I had done synthesizing silica nanoparticle in Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural chemistry, TNAU, Coimbatore in the year 2023 and the aim of this study is to characterize the silica nano particle and use it on agricultural crops. Selected region from X-ray diffraction analysis and Transmission Electron Microscopy, silica sample exhibited amorphous behaviour as seen in the electron diffraction patterns, whereas the Fourier-transform infrared Spectroscopy spectra primarily contained siloxane and silanol groups. Images obtained in Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed the existence of primary nanoparticles with secondary microparticles, possibly as a result of their agglomeration. These silica nanoparticles can therefore be used in the fields of microelectronics, sensors, nano-additives and will be suitable on implication on agricultural crops.

Biosynthesis of Graphene Oxide Nanoparticles from Coconut Fronds

To address the ecofriendly approach for the nano graphene oxide (nGO) synthesis, “Wealth from waste” idea utilized in this study. The synthesis process involves the controlled reduction and manipulation of nGO sheets to achieve nano-scale dimensions, resulting in nGO with improved structural integrity and enhanced surface area. Characterization of the synthesized nGO is conducted using advanced analytical tools, including Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), UV-Visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS) and Particle Size Analyser (PSA). The PSA analysis revealed, a predominantly monodisperse distribution with a peak size of approximately 314 nanometers with indicative of good dispersion uniformity. The UV-Visible spectroscopy displayed a significant absorption peak at 234 nanometers, elucidating the material’s optical characteristics. TEM images unveiled the structural features such as wrinkles, folds and nanoscale dimensions. The XRD diffractogram suggested the presence of both GO and rGO phases with unique intensity peaks at 10.33° and 32.35° shown the interlayer spacing of 3.72 and 1.11 nm respectively. These analyses provide valuable insights into the morphology, size and crystallinity present in the nGO, aiding in its structural elucidation. These findings affirm the successful conversion of coconut fronds waste into GO nanoparticles and open avenues for sustainable nanomaterial production. The unique properties of GO are utilized for water purification, oil spill cleanup, energy storage, sensors, composite materials, photodetectors, anticorrosive coatings, and so on. The biosynthesis of nano graphene oxide particles offers exciting opportunities for the development of next-generation materials with enhanced performance characteristics.

Harnessing the Antifungal Potential of Seed Bacteriome against Major Seed and Soil-borne Pathogens in Blackgram

Blackgram is an important pulse crop in India. One of the major constraints on blackgram production is the attack of pathogens, which leads to yield loss. Nowadays, with the understanding of harmful effects of chemical fungicides, biocontrol methods are gaining more importance. One such method is biopriming with endophytes to control pathogens and enhance yield. In the present study, the endophytes of blackgram seeds was explored and tested for its biocontrol potential against major seed- and soil-borne pathogens and growth promotion in blackgram. A total of 14 bacterial endophytic isolates were obtained and screened against Macropomina phaseolina and Fusarium oxysporum. Among them, BSE5 isolate was proven to be more efficient in inhibiting the mycelial growth of M. phaseolina and F. oxysporum, with per cent inhibition of 22.5 and 50.6, respectively, following BSE9. Both the isolates showed improved plant growth parameters like germination percentage, root length, shoot length, dry matter production and vigour index. Molecular characterisation of BSE5 and BSE9 confirmed that the isolates are Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus xiamenensis.

Physiological Changes in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) by Postharvest Application with Hexanal Containing Aqueous Formulations

Aim: Okra is a vegetable that holds a significant share in both domestic and export markets, but it is prone to desiccation and fungal spoilage, leading to a short shelf life. A laboratory study was undertaken to determine the effects of hexanal containing aqueous formulation to improve the shelf life of okra with the objective to maintain the best quality of pods for end consumer acceptance.Study Design: Factorial Completely Randomized Design was followed with three replications.Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in laboratory conditions, Department of Vegetable Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Coimbatore during 2021-2022Methodology: In this study, TNAU released nanoformulation– TNAU FRUITY FRESH – ENHANCED FRESHNESS FORMULATION consisting of 2% Hexanal, 10% Formulation ingredients, 88% Deionized filler. and hexanal was used at varying concentrations for imposing treatments on freshly harvested, uniform sized undamaged tender pods of bhendi hybrid COBh H4 (TNAU released hybrid) using spray and dip methods under ambient and cold storage conditions and physiological parameters were assessed.Results: As per the investigation, 2% Enhanced Freshness Formulation using dip method in cold storage conditions slower the physiological loss in weight, preserves the L*, a*, b* value, extend the shelf life and preserved the quality for consumer acceptance during storage 9 days as compared to control.Conclusion: The study gave the knowledge of hexanal containing aqueous formulation and their effectiveness to use as post-harvest technology tool for okra.

Influence of Nano Urea on Growth and Microbial Population in Paddy Ecosystem

Chemical fertilizer usage has been a long-drawn criticism because of its harmful effects on the environment and on the quality of agricultural produce. Researchers are continually looking for more productive, better solutions while retaining societal wellbeing. Effective use of nano fertilizers in place of chemical fertilizers is essential in reducing fertilizer overuse and also contribute in lowering the pollution and leaching which in turn increase the effectiveness of nutrient consumption and also increase the yield of the crop. An experiment was carried out in paddy to study the influence of Nano urea applications on growth and microbial populations in soil. The field trial used a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with eight treatment combinations and three replications. Results showed that application of STCR based N as Urea (50%) and Nano Urea (2 sprays) and Recommended dosage of N as Urea (50%) and Nano Urea (2 sprays) recorded higher plant height, Leaf Area Index (LAI), Dry matter accumulation in paddy. In addition, applications of Nano urea increased the microbial population including bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes. Combining recommended dosage of fertilisers with nano urea spray at critical stages of paddy crop increases the crop growth and microbial activity.