Silver–honey nanoparticle seed coatings for antifungal protection
Introducing silver–honey nanoparticles as a sustainable antifungal seed treatment. These nanoparticles combine silver ions with honey, providing dual antifungal action and compatibility with existing treatments, ensuring seed safety and environmental compliance.
Overview
The silver–honey nanoparticle seed coating technology offers an innovative solution for protecting crops against Sudden Death Syndrome (SDS). By utilizing silver ions reduced by honey, this antifungal treatment provides an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical-based options. The honey acts both as a reducing agent and a stabilizer, resulting in nanoparticles that deliver prolonged antifungal protection. This approach not only disrupts fungal growth but also enhances the seed's natural defense mechanisms, ensuring healthier crop yields.
Technical specifications
- Honey-AgNPs Synthesis: Silver ions are reduced using various honey types, which serve as both a biogenic reducing agent and a stabilizer.
- Dual Antifungal Action: Silver ions disrupt fungal cell structures, while honey phytochemicals enhance oxidative stress responses.
- Seed Coating Benefits: Improved adhesion to seeds, controlled release, non-toxic to seedlings.
- Formulation Compatibility: Effective when combined with fludioxonil and metalaxyl-M, maintaining efficacy at ≤2 L/100 kg seed application volume.
- Sustainability: Food-grade synthesis avoids harsh chemicals, supporting eco-friendly claims.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 2, this technology is in the early phase of development. Ongoing validation includes greenhouse efficacy tests and field micro-plot confirmations. The formulation aims to achieve a high level of compatibility with existing seed treatment processes, ensuring minimal environmental impact and regulatory compliance.
About Kansas State University
Kansas State University is a comprehensive public land‑grant research university with multiple campuses and a strong applied mission. Industry partners tap a statewide extension network that connects companies to field sites, talent, and rapid outreach; campus pilot plants and analytical services enable bench‑to‑pilot scale validation, while co‑located high‑containment facilities support regulated studies. The Olathe campus in the Kansas City metro serves as an industry‑engagement hub with workforce pipelines, collaborative labs, and proximity to the Kansas City Animal Health Corridor. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, USDA, and DOE, alongside state and corporate sponsors, and a dedicated technology transfer office streamlines IP, sponsored research, and startup formation.
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