| Autor: |
Forini MML; Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Engineering, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Ilha Solteira, SP 15385-000, Brazil., Antunes DR; Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Engineering, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Ilha Solteira, SP 15385-000, Brazil., Cavalcante LAF; Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Engineering, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Ilha Solteira, SP 15385-000, Brazil., Pontes MS; Natural Resources Program, Center for Natural Resources Studies (CERNA), Mato Grosso do Sul State University (UEMS), Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul 79804-970, Brazil., Biscalchim ÉR; Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Engineering, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Ilha Solteira, SP 15385-000, Brazil., Sanches AO; Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Engineering, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Ilha Solteira, SP 15385-000, Brazil., Santiago EF; Natural Resources Program, Center for Natural Resources Studies (CERNA), Mato Grosso do Sul State University (UEMS), Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul 79804-970, Brazil., Fraceto LF; Department of Environmental Engineering, Institute of Science and Technology (ICTS), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Sorocaba, SP 18087-180, Brazil., Grillo R; Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Engineering, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Ilha Solteira, SP 15385-000, Brazil. |
| Abstrakt: |
The use of nano- and microparticles as a release system for agrochemicals has been increasing in agricultural sector. However, the production of eco-friendly and smart carriers that can be easily handled in the environment is still a challenge for this technology. In this context, we have developed a biodegradable release system for the herbicide atrazine with magnetic properties. Herein, we investigated the (a) physicochemical properties of the atrazine-loaded magnetic poly(ε-caprolactone) microparticles (MPs:ATZ), (b) in vitro release kinetic profile of the herbicide, and (c) phytotoxicity toward photosynthesis in the aquatic fern Azolla caroliniana . The encapsulation efficiency of the herbicide in the MPs:ATZ was ca. 69%, yielding spherical microparticles with a diameter of ca. 100 μm, a sustained-release profile, and easily manipulated with an external magnetic field. Also, phytotoxicity issues showed that the MPs:ATZ maintained their herbicidal activity via inhibition of PSII, showing lower toxicity compared with the nonencapsulated ATZ at 0.01 and 0.02 μmol·L -1 . Therefore, this technology may conveniently promote a novel magnetic controlled release of the herbicide ATZ (with the potential to be collected from a watercourse) and act as a nutrient boost to the nontarget plant, with good herbicidal activity and reduced risk to the environment. |
