Uptake and translocation properties of rotenone nanopesticide mediated by hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles in cucumber plant

Objective  Nanocarrier was used as pesticide carrier to improve the utilization ratio of pesticide.

Method  Hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles (HMSNs) were synthesized by self-template method using water as etchant on the basis of solid mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs). Botanical pesticide rotenone was loaded into HMSNs (Rot@HMSNs) by solvent evaporation method. The sustained-release property and insecticidal activity of Rot@HMSNs were determined. Distribution of rotenone in Rot@HMSNs of cucumber was obtained by HPLC.

Result  The particle size of HMSNs was about 250 nm and the specific surface area was 999.4 m²/g. The prepared Rot@HMSNs had uniform particle size and a considerable loading rate of rotenone (46.7%). The Rot@HMSNs had good releasing performance and the release model was in accordance with the Ritger-Peppas model. HMSNs significantly improved the uptake and translocation abilities of rotenone in cucumber plants.

Conclusion  The utilization rate of rotenone can be improved by nanocarrier HMSNs. The study is of great significance for reducing pesticide use and environmental pollution.