Utilizing Metal-based Nanoparticles as Nanopesticides for Pest Management

Aqsa Nadeem, Muddassar Alam

Department of Chemistry, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan

Department of Biological Sciences and Chemistry, University of Nizwa, Nizwa Oman

Submitted: 13-08-2025; Accepted: 24-12-2025; Published: 31-12-2025

 

 

 

Abstract

Metal-based nanoparticles (MNPs) are considered as a valuable ingredient of nanopesticides, as these new methods are offered to improve the pest control of the agriculture system and combat the ecological effects of the conventional pesticides. Silver, copper, zinc, nickel, gold, iron, aluminium, titanium and other MNPs have peculiar nanoscale characteristics. These properties enable MNPs to be engineered to release under controlled and extended release which lowers the frequency of application and the environmental runoff. This mechanism is known to minimize the risks to the beneficial species and non-target animals as well as maximize the efficacy of pest management as per the principles and rules of sustainable crop protection. This review evaluates nanopesticides according to their specific targets. Additionally, examined are the mechanisms of action of metal-based nanoparticles, including chemical interactions, biological processes, and physical disturbance. The review also explains how MNPs damage membranes, denaturize proteins, interfere with DNA and damage mitochondria, all of which damage cellular integrity. Regardless of these advantages, there are still a lot of challenges to be solved, particularly in relation to the environmental impacts of MNPs, their influence on soil, potential harms to human health and ecosystem dynamics. A number of problems need to be fixed before MNPs can be used to their full potential in sustainable agriculture.

 

Keywords: Metal Nanopesticides, Green Synthesis, Conventional pesticides, Environmental risks.

Full length article    *Corresponding Author, e-mail: aqsanadeem676@gmail.com, doi# 10.71111/Science today/4-25-3-3-st-4