Use of nanomaterials as pest and diseases prevention in tropical regions

Barbora Buřičová

Bakalářská práce

Abstract:

This bachelor’s thesis investigates the use of nanomaterials—specifically nanofiber-treated protective textiles—as a sustainable method for pest and disease prevention in agriculture, with emphasis on tropical and subtropical regions. These areas face increased pest pressure due to warm and humid climates, while rising concerns about pesticide resistance, environmental degradation, and food safety have accelerated the search for alternatives to chemical pesticides. The research combines a theoretical overview of nanotechnology in agriculture with a practical field experiment using tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum). The experiment tested multiple textile covers, including a novel nanomaterial-treated fabric applied in two orientations: with the active nanolayer facing up and down. The covered variants showed lower pest infestation and higher yields compared to the uncovered control, with the downward-facing nanolayer (FD) producing the best results. The study suggests that nanomaterial-treated textiles function not only as physical barriers but may also contribute to pathogen suppression through photocatalytic activity and improved microclimate conditions. These outcomes align with integrated pest management (IPM) strategies and highlight nanotechnology’s potential in low-input, sustainable agriculture. However, the study was limited to a single growing season under temperate conditions. Further research is recommended to evaluate long-term effects, environmental impacts, and performance under tropical climates. Additionally, future work should assess economic feasibility and potential integration with smart farming technologies. Overall, nanotextiles present a promising, eco-friendly alternative for pest management, particularly in regions where conventional chemical inputs are increasingly unsustainable.

Keywords

nanomaterials, tropical crops, climate change, pest prevention

Jazyk práce: angličtina

Datum vytvoření / odevzdání či podání práce: 19. 4. 2025

Obhajoba závěrečné práce

• Obhajoba proběhla 28. 5. 2025
• Vedoucí: Ing. Matěj Satranský, Ph.D.
• Oponent: Patrik Zimmer, Ing.

Česká zemědělská univerzita v Praze

Fakulta agrobiologie, potravinových a přírodních zdrojů

Bakalářský studijní program:
Tropické zemědělství