Lignosulfonate-encapsulated paraquat nanoemulsion for enhanced UV stability
A novel lignosulfonate-encapsulated paraquat nanoemulsion is designed to enhance UV stability and herbicidal efficiency. This formulation protects paraquat from degradation and enables sustained release, enhancing agricultural productivity.
Overview
The lignosulfonate-encapsulated paraquat nanoemulsion represents a breakthrough in agrochemical formulations by significantly enhancing the UV stability and herbicidal efficiency of paraquat. By encapsulating paraquat in a lignosulfonate-based double emulsion, this technology offers a protective mechanism against UV degradation while enabling sustained release on plant surfaces. As a result, paraquat retains its efficacy over a longer period, leading to improved weed control and agricultural yield.
Technical specifications
- Encapsulation Material: Lignosulfonate, a UV-absorbing polymer, forms a protective layer.
- Emulsion Composition: Utilizes paraquat, vegetable oil, Tween-80, and Span-80.
- Droplet Size: Characterized by droplet sizes ranging between 150–200 nm.
- Polydispersity Index: Maintained at <0.3 for uniform droplet distribution.
- Zeta Potential: Approximately -30.0 mV, ensuring electrostatic stability.
- Spectroscopy Results: UV–Visible spectroscopy indicates a blue shift in absorption spectrum, confirming strong lignosulfonate-paraquat interactions.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at Technology Readiness Level 6, indicating that it has undergone validation in relevant environments. Future plans include further synthesis and characterization, validation through licensing bodies, and comprehensive evaluation under in vitro and field conditions.
About Tamil Nadu Agricultural University
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University is a comprehensive state agricultural university headquartered in Coimbatore, combining education, research, and statewide extension at scale. Co-located experimental farms, commodity research stations, and pilot processing facilities provide industry with sites for field trials, prototyping, and product validation. An extensive extension network connects faculty with growers and supply chains, while proximity to Tamil Nadu’s agri‑machinery, textiles, and food‑processing base supports collaboration and talent pipelines. Research is supported by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, the Government of Tamil Nadu, and competitive national programs such as DST and DBT. A dedicated technology transfer office and agribusiness incubation services facilitate IP, licensing, startup formation, and contract research.
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