Crop Protection

Controlled release matrices/formulations from biodegradable materials

In order to provide sufficient and high-quality food for the exponentially increasing global population, there is a dire need to establish approaches that focus on the targeted and controlled release of agrochemicals with minimal impact on the environment. We develop eco-friendly and biodegradable carriers that are derived from bio-based materials. I am involved in various projects with my group members as well as interdepartmental and international teams. We employ various forms of biodegradable matrices including electrospun nanofibers as seed coats, particulate disperisons in water and matrices developed from agricultural wastes as seed wraps to establish sustainable crop protection. While fine-tuning their design, we try to maximize their efficiency for better quality crops with minimal impact on the environment.

Sprayable Foliar Treatment Agents for Plant Diseases

Researcher: Mariam Sohail

Indiscriminate usage of agrochemicals particularly pesticides, fertilizers and insecticides has given rise to a number of issues including but not limited to increased pathogen resistance, environmental impacts and health effects. My research focuses on the development of sprayable agrochemical formulations that have the potential to achieve high efficacy with minimum losses of the agricultural Active Ingredient from the formulation. Through my research, I intend to develop formulations based on the principles of controlled release systems by bonding the Active Ingredient to a biodegradable matrix and thus limit and control free movement of the Active Ingredient in the formulation and the environment. The formulations will be tailored to stick to the leaf surface to minimize run-off losses and any on-ground contamination and also to achieve maximum contact with the target site. The focal point of the research is to make current agricultural practices more environmentally friendly and sustainable in addition to achieving food security for all.