Nano fertilizers for Sustainable Crop Production: Recent Advances, Nutrient Use Efficiency, and Agricultural Applications

Nanofertilizers have emerged as an innovative technology for improving crop productivity and promoting sustainable agricultural development. Unlike conventional fertilizers, nanofertilizers provide controlled and targeted nutrient delivery, thereby enhancing nutrient use efficiency and minimizing nutrient losses through leaching, volatilization, and runoff. Their unique physicochemical properties improve nutrient availability, root absorption, plant metabolism, and stress tolerance, leading to increased crop yield and reduced environmental pollution. Recent advancements in nanotechnology have facilitated the development of smart nanofertilizers with controlled-release mechanisms and precision nutrient management. These nano-enabled fertilizers support sustainable farming by reducing fertilizer consumption while maintaining soil fertility and crop productivity. Despite their considerable advantages, concerns regarding nanoparticle toxicity, environmental persistence, and regulatory frameworks remain challenges for large-scale adoption. This review summarizes recent advances in nanofertilizer technology, nutrient use efficiency, agricultural applications, environmental benefits, current limitations, and future research directions for sustainable crop production.