Nano-formulations: High Definition Liquid Engineering of Pesticides for Advanced Crop Protection in Agriculture

Nanogels may be defined as nano-sized hydrogel systems which are highly cross linked systems in nature involving polymer systems, which are either co-polymerized or monomeric [4]. Sudden outbreak in the field of nanotechnology have introduced the need for developing nanogel systems which proven their potential to deliver active ingredients in controlled, sustained and targetable manner. With the emerging field of polymer sciences it has now become inevitable to prepare smart nano-systems which can prove effective for treatment as well as clinical trials progress. Nevertheless, these systems have been investigated from a longer period of time for mak-ing advancements in synthetic procedures not only for active delivery but for miscellaneous agents like quantum dots, dyes and other diagnostic agents [57]. Traditionally in the name of gels we have heard of semisolid formulations with three dimensional network of organic systems en-compassing fluids and drugs. Majorly these systems have been the part of traditional sys-tem of topical drug delivery for local effects. Prospects of targeted delivery perhaps could not been established with these preparations [8]. The significance of nanosized microgel and hydrogel has arisen due to specific delivery system anticipation. Wide variety of polymer systems and the easy alteration of their physico-chemical characteristics have given advantage for versatile form of nanogel formulations [9]. Recent studies at clinical level have shown promising value of nanogels [10]. Nanogels are typical formulations mainly of the size range of 100 nm, by varying solvent quality and branching the volume fraction, one can alter variably to maintain a three dimensional structure [11]. The review suggests that innovation in this field shall bring-forth sound support to pesticide applications in future. Recently Institute of Pesticide Formulation Technology, Gurgaon has developed a nanogel formulation of permethrin (a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide) for long lasting impregnation of this insecticide in the dresses which can protect personals from mosquito bite whenever they are deployed/posted to work in forest areas [12]. The formulation developed in the laboratory was evaluated as per WHO specifications with respect to wash resistance and it qualifies all the laid down parameters. This type of nanogel formulation may have good future in seed dressing/ coating because of its lower particle size, large surface area and greater adhesive properties.