The project goal is to build a delivery system that consists of a matrix formed from safe-to-use polymers with entrapped active chemical compounds that could be used as insecticides. Particles will be designed to assist in electrostatic binding to soybean forage or the roots and to provide controlled release of the entrapped component. This work extends micro nanotechnology to agriculture to improve pesticide/herbicide functionality. To do this, the project includes studying the fluorescent nanoparticles adhesion to the roots, loading methoxyfenozide insecticide in nanoparticles and assessing the mortality of insects treated with the nanoparticles, and then assessing the mortality of soybean loopers fed leaves that have been sprayed with the nanoparticles.

Key Benefactors:
farmers, agronomists, Extension agents