Positively charged zein nanoparticles (ZNPs), 135± 3 nm in diameter, monodisperse with a PDI of  0.202 ±  0.034 and a zeta potential of 81 ±  4 mV at pH 6, were engineered to adhere to plant tissues, roots and leaves. ZNPs were loaded with methoxyfenozide and chlorantraniliprole. Experiments using a diet overlay were conducted to evaluate the effects of nanoparticles alone and with entrapped pesticide on SBL. It was determined that empty nanoparticles killed neonates in a dose-response manner; the higher the concentration of the particles, the higher the mortality. An average of fifty percent SBL neonates were killed at 200 ppm nanoparticles regardless of the colony tested, but no third instars were affected. Particles loaded with chlorantraniliprole at 50, 100, and 200 ppm all resulted in 100% mortality in SBL neonates and third instars. Field experiments showed that nanodelivered methoxyfenozide controlled soybean looper (SBL) 28 days after treatment (DAT) in a field study, while methoxyfenozide alone controlled SBL out to 21 DAT only. Results indicated that positively charged zein nanoparticles could work as efficient delivery systems for hydrophobic pesticides and have the potential to be used in an integrated pest management program.<br/>

Pesticide-loaded cationic zein nanoparticle as a control agent against soybean looper

2019 Fall National Meeting

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