Modified carbon nanotubes for sustainable plant protection: A revolutionary approach to combat biotic and abiotic stresses

The agricultural sector faces significant threats from biotic challenges, including bacteria, viruses, insects, and fungi, as well as abiotic stresses such as heat, cold, and heavy metals, all leading to substantial economic losses. These stresses are compounded by decreasing arable land, water scarcity, environmental changes, and substandard agrochemicals, harming crop growth and yield. Drought and salinity alone contribute to billions in agricultural losses annually. Single carbon nanotubes (CNTs) currently show limited effectiveness in treating agricultural diseases, while modified CNT materials remain more effective. However, due to their stable surface chemistry, CNTs have promise as nano-pesticides to combat both biotic and abiotic stresses by targeting plant physiological processes. The proposed study underscores sustainability, aiming to transform pathogen control, enhance food security, and create a balanced agricultural system. Minimizing crop losses from pests and stresses is crucial for addressing environmental impacts, making ongoing research in modified CNTs essential for sustainable plant protection. This review examines the role of modified CNTs in plant protection, emphasizing their physicochemical properties, potential agricultural applications, and ability to reduce pesticide residues while bolstering plant defenses. Overall, CNTs may help revolutionize sustainable agriculture and promote more resilient cropping systems.