Nanoparticles can reduce the use of chemicals in agriculture
Researchers at Stockholm University have developed an innovative method to reduce pesticide use in the agriculture. By using nanoparticles made from lignin, a natural polymer found in wood, pesticides can be effectively attached to and absorbed by plant surfaces. This allows pesticides to work for up to two months, protecting the plants while dramatically reducing chemical use.
From industrial waste to crop protection
Matilda Andersson, a PhD student at the Department of Chemistry, has developed this bio-based nanoparticle technology under the guidance of Mika Sipponen, using lignin – a currently underutilized by-product from wood-based industries – as the base material. By modifying the lignin with fatty acid derivatives, the researchers have created particles that both adhere to the plants' waxy surface and penetrate the protective layer of the leaves.
Reduced pesticide use with global impact
The research, published in 'ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces', shows that the new nanoparticles could potentially reduce the amount of pesticides needed, helping protect the environment. Nearly 4 million tons of pesticides are used globally each year, but less than 25% of this reaches its intended target. The rest ends up in the soil through spraying, rain, or breaks down due to UV light. Here, the developed lignin particles offer a solution. The researchers compare the technique to the Trojan Horse: the nanoparticles effectively deliver the pesticides to the plants while protecting them from being washed away by rain or irrigation.
Long-lasting and controllable pesticide release
Another key feature of the new nanoparticles is their ability to regulate pesticide release over an extended period—up to 60 days. The gradual release ensures long-term protection, making the method more effective than traditional pesticides. At the same time, it reduces the risk of contamination and health hazards, which are often associated with the overuse of pesticides.
Next step – greenhouse trials to validate the method
The researchers now plan to test the technology on growing crops to further validate its effectiveness.
"This method has the potential to reduce the amount of pesticides required, which benefits not only farmers but also the environment. Our next step is to test the lignin-based nanoparticles under practical conditions to validate their long-term effectiveness on growing crops," says Matilda Andersson, PhD student and lead author of the study.
A future solution for sustainable agriculture
The bio-based technology offers an effective way to protect crops while reducing the environmental impact of modern agriculture. Lignin-based nanoparticles could become an important part of the development of more sustainable agricultural techniques that reduce dependence on chemicals and improve environmental protection.
"Our goal is to further develop sustainable technologies that can solve the real challenges faced by agriculture," says Mika Sipponen, project leader for LIFAGRO, a project funded by the Swedish Research Council for Sustainable Development, FORMAS.
Text: Angela Westin.
More information:
Matilda Andersson explains lignin
Lignin paves the way for a fossile-free society
Contact: Mika Sipponen, Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry
Last updated: February 5, 2025
Source: Department of Chemistry