1. Impact of Zn nanomaterials on agronomic and physiological parameters in bean plants (Phaseolus vulgaris)

Abstract

Over the last decade, the use of zinc (Zn) nanomaterials in agricultural practices such as nanofertilizers and nanopesticides has gained interest among those involved in agricultural production systems. For this reason, studies are needed to understand the effects of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) on crops of agricultural interest. This study was specifically designed to measure the comparative effects of metallic zinc nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), Zn sulfate (ZnSO₄∙H₂O), and green Zn oxide nanoparticles (ZnO GNPs) at different concentrations (25, 50, 75, and 100 mg Zn/kg soil) on physiological and agronomic parameters in bean plants. The results indicate that all Zn compounds applied improve leaf area development and pod and grain yield in bean plants. In addition, the best results for leaf area and pod yield were obtained with the ZnO GNPs source at 75 mg Zn kg^-1 of soil. No significant differences were found between treatments for chlorophyll and nitrogen concentration.