Progress in Research on Nanomaterial-Plant Interaction

Nanomaterials (NMs) have received global attention because of their unique physicochemical properties. Recent advances in nanotechnologies have proved useful in improving plant growth and yield, quality of food materials, and efficacy of phytomedicine. Nanoparticles (NPs) of several metals and metal oxides are now being synthesized by using plant extracts or their products as the reducing and capping agents. Many NPs are used as nutrient carriers for plants and have shown positive impact on the overall plant performance. However, their reported toxicity in biological/physiological environment is a point of concern. This chapter provides an overview of the current and the expected future status of NM-plant interaction.