Brazilian Scientists Innovate with Kraft Lignin Nanotechnology to Reduce Herbicide Use
Brazilian scientists have created a pioneering nanotechnology using Kraft lignin to enhance herbicide efficiency and reduce environmental impact in agriculture.
- • Brazilian scientists developed a technology using Kraft lignin to improve herbicide application.
- • The innovation reduces herbicide use and environmental contamination.
- • Kraft lignin is a cellulose byproduct mostly wasted but has valuable properties.
- • The technology supports circular economy by repurposing industrial waste.
- • Brazil is positioned to lead in sustainable agricultural innovations due to biomass resources.
Key details
Brazilian researchers from the National Institute of Science and Technology in Nanotechnology for Sustainable Agriculture (INCT NanoAgro), led by Professor Dr. Leonardo Fraceto of UNESP Sorocaba, have developed a cutting-edge technology that leverages Kraft lignin to improve herbicide application efficiency while minimizing environmental harm. Kraft lignin, a byproduct produced during cellulose extraction in the paper industry, has traditionally been underutilized, with less than 2% repurposed globally and much of it incinerated for energy.
The new method developed by the team involves fractionating Kraft lignin into various chemical components to create nanomaterials capable of carrying herbicides directly into plants. This innovation enhances the precision and effectiveness of herbicide delivery, reducing the amount needed and significantly lowering contamination risks to soil and water. The technology aligns with circular economy principles by transforming industrial waste into valuable agricultural inputs, fostering sustainable business models.
This breakthrough highlights Brazil's potential leadership in green agricultural inputs due to its abundant biomass resources. The researchers emphasize that this development not only advances productive agricultural practices but also supports global decarbonization goals and reduces dependence on petroleum-based chemicals.
This lignin-based nanotechnology marks a promising step toward more sustainable farming in Brazil, combining environmental protection with high-tech innovation.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
