Emerging Copper Alternatives for Crop Protection

Abstract: Copper (Cu) bactericides/fungicides are aggressively used in the agriculture industry in the U.S and worldwide on many crops. There is an increasing concern of Cu accumulation in field soil, Cu leaching potential into the surrounding ecosystem and development of bacterial resistance. Using nanotechnology, it is possible to reduce Cu amounts per application without compromising overall efficacy. Moreover, Zn based nanoparticles can be developed for potential use as an alternative to Cu bactericides/fungicides. This presentation will focus on laboratory, greenhouse and field efficacy outcomes of several nanoparticle composites, challenges towards developing industrially viable formulations and approaches to minimize regulatory challenges.

Biography: Dr. Swadeshmukul Santra is a Professor at UCF holding a joint appointment with the NanoScience Technology Center and the Department of Chemistry. Dr. Santra is a chemist with interdisciplinary research experience. He has been actively working in the field of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology for over 17 years and has developed several composite materials for biomedical and agricultural applications. Specifically, he has developed a series of metal (copper, zinc) and non-metal based agricultural bactericides. He has published 68 peer-reviewed research articles in reputed international journals, 7 review articles, and 9 book chapters and delivered 74 invited talks. He has been awarded 28 patents including 22 US patents. His research has been funded by NSF, USDA, Citrus Research and Development Foundation, Environmental Research and Education Foundation and several industries with a portfolio of over $5.5M research funding. He has been actively working in the area of citrus canker and greening since 2009 and is intimately engaged in several agriculture industries and stakeholders including advisory board members. The proposed research idea stems from his expertise in materials, chemistry and biomedical research and strong interaction with the scientists, growers, regulatory consultants and industry partners.