Applications of natural zeolites on agriculture and food production

Zeolite application and irrigation during ripening reduced berry sunburn damage and yield loss in cv. Sangiovese (Vitis vinifera L.)

Climate change poses significant challenges to the grapevine cultivation for wine production. In the last years, the occurrence of extreme weather events such as intense heat waves and prolonged period of drought increased sunburn damage with negative consequences to yield and berry composition. Short-term adaptation strategies are urgently needed to mitigate these effects. In this light, our study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of zeolite application on the canopy and irrigation during ripening on sunburn damage, yield, and berry composition in cv. Sangiovese (Vitis vinifera L.). Over 3 years (2021-2023), canopy management and irrigation treatments were arranged in a strip-plot design. Canopy management treatments included leaf removal on the cluster zone, with and without zeolite application, and no defoliated control; irrigation treatments comprised irrigation from berry softening and no irrigation. Both zeolite application and irrigation reduced sunburn damage, thus mitigating yield loss. Regarding berry composition, zeolite application did not alter the main parameters whereas irrigation led to reductions in sugar and anthocyanin concentrations. These findings suggest that zeolite application and irrigation during ripening represent promising and cost-effective solutions for grape growers facing climate change-induced challenges. However, further studies are necessary to optimize timing of irrigation to avoid detrimental effects on anthocyanin accumulation.

Purified Clinoptilolite-Tuff as an Efficient Sorbent for Food-Derived Peanut Allergens

The avoidance of allergen intake is crucial for persons affected by peanut allergy; however, the cross-contamination of food is common and leads to unpredictable consequences after the consumption of supposedly "safe" food. The aim of the present study was to eliminate harmful traces of peanut allergens from food using purified clinoptilolite-tuff (PCT)-a specially processed zeolite material. Analyses were performed using a peanut ELISA and a Coomassie blue (Bradford) assay. Mimicking conditions of the human gastrointestinal tract demonstrated a higher efficacy of PCT in the intestine (pH 6.8) than in the stomach (pH 1.5). Adsorption rates were fast (<2 min) and indicated high capacities (23 µg and 40 µg per 1 mg of PCT at pH 1.5 and pH 6.8, respectively). Allergenically relevant peanut protein concentrations were sorbed in artificial fluids (32 µg/mL by 4 mg/mL of PCT at pH 1.5 and 80.8 µg/mL by 0.25 mg/mL of PCT at pH 6.8) when imitating a daily dose of 2 g of PCT in an average stomach volume of 500 mL. Experiments focusing on the bioavailability of peanut protein attached to PCT revealed sustained sorption at pH 1.5 and only minor desorption at pH 6.8. Accompanied by gluten, peanut proteins showed competing binding characteristics with PCT. This study therefore demonstrates the potential of PCT in binding relevant quantities of peanut allergens during the digestion of peanut-contaminated food.

Oviposition-Deterrent Effect of a High-Quality Natural Zeolite on the Olive Fruit Fly Bactrocera oleae, under Different Conditions of Temperature and Relative Humidity

In recent years, the number of available chemical pesticides has been dramatically reduced, urging the need for the discovery of alternatives to chemical pesticide products such as, among others, natural zeolites (zeolitic rocks). We determined the mineralogical and chemical composition of a specific and continuous layer of zeolitic rock sample (ZeotP) from Petrota, Evros, Greece, and evaluated its oviposition-deterrent effect on the olive fruit fly Bactrocera oleae Gmelin (Diptera: Terphritidae). The tested natural zeolite contained 70 wt. % clinoptilolite, 18 wt. % amorphous material, 7 wt. % feldspars, 4 wt. % cristobalite, and 1 wt. % quartz. We tested the oviposition-deterrent effect of ZeotP mixed or not with an emulsifier adjuvant, NU-FILM-P®, in water and applied it to the surface of olive fruits. The ZeotP oviposition-deterrent effect on the olive fly was very high under a series of tested temperatures (17 °C, 20 °C, 25 °C, and 30 °C) and RHs (23%, 33%, 55%, 75%, and 94%). In addition, the ZeotP residual deterrent effect after equable water spraying was high, like the respective effect of the pyrethroid insecticide Decis® (deltamethrin). Our results may contribute to the effective control of the olive fruit fly using an alternative to chemical pesticides: natural zeolite (zeolitic rocks) products.

Soil quality increases with long-term chabazite-zeolite tuff amendments in arable and perennial cropping systems

The application of natural zeolites to improve soil quality and functioning has become highly popular, but we still miss information about the long-term effects on the soil due to its application. This study assesses the soil quality index (SQI) of three distinct agricultural soil systems 6-10 years after a single application of natural chabazite zeolite as a soil amendment. These soils exhibit different management practices: intensive arable (cereals), intensive perennial (pear) and organic perennial (olive). In the arable system, a zeolite application dosage of 5, 10 and 15 kg m-2 was tested and compared to unamended soil. In the two perennial systems, an application of 5 kg m-2 was tested against untreated reference sols. A set of 25 soil physical, chemical and biological parameters linked to soil health and quality were analysed at each experimental site. The dataset was investigated through Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to calculate the soil quality index (SQI) using linear scoring. In the arable-cereal field, the SQI doubled (0.3 to ca. 0.6 for all amendments) in chabazite-amended plots; a dose effect was not recognizable. In both perennial fields, the SQI was significantly higher in the chabazite-amended plots (5 kg m-2) with similar increases as compared to the arable-cereal field. At each site, the indicators selected by the PCA were different, indicating that chabazite addition impacted soil quality differently in each cropping system. Overall, the results highlighted a significant increase in soil quality with chabazite amendment, which confirms its potential for increasing soil health in the long-term.

Growth performance, meat quality, strength of jejunum and leg bones of both sexes Cherry Valley ducks fed with zeolite

Zeolite, as a natural mineral, could be a good additive for ducks, in line with pro-environmental trends. The study aimed to evaluate zeolite additives in feed for broiler ducks of both sexes on production results, meat quality, and the strength of the jejunum, tibia, and femur. The experiment used 200 Cherry Valley ducks, divided into a control group of males (CM) and females (CF) and an experimental group of males (ZM) and females (ZF). In the control groups, a commercial diet was used. In the experimental groups, 1% zeolite was added. The ZM group demonstrated higher body weight and weight gain than the CM group. Zeolite reduced the feed conversion ratio. A higher liver weight was found in the experimental group (ZM). Notably, zeolite influenced the weight of male pectoral muscles. Higher water loss in the pectoral muscles and higher protein content in the leg muscles were found in the same group. Females had a higher weight of neck and wings with skin. Female pectoral muscles had lower protein and water content. Zeolite in feed at a 1% level for broiler ducks could be recommended as a natural additive that positively affects the ducks' production results concerning good quality meat.

Modification of natural zeolites and their applications for heavy metal removal from polluted environments: Challenges, recent advances, and perspectives

In recent decades, environmental pollution has become a significant problem for human health and environmental impact. The high accumulation of heavy metals in waters and soils from different sources was conducted by finding efficient and environmentally friendly treatment methods and materials for their removal. Natural zeolites have found wide-ranging applications in environmental remediation and protection, considering various treatment and modification methods designed to enhance the natural zeolites' adsorptive or ion-exchange capabilities for increased efficiency. This paper briefly consolidates the recent scientific literature related to the main characteristics of natural and modified zeolites, the advantages and limitations of their environmental remediation application, and summarizes the methodologies applied to natural zeolites in order to improve their properties. Their application for removing heavy metals from water systems and soils is also comprehensively discussed. This review highlights the excellent potential of natural zeolites to be used after specific treatment or modification as a sustainable and green material to solve numerous environmental pollution issues.

Research progress of fishy odor in aquatic products: From substance identification, formation mechanism, to elimination pathway

Fishy odor in aquatic products has a significant impact on the purchasing decisions of consumers. The production of aquatic products is a complex process involving culture, processing, transportation, and storage, which contribute to decreases in flavor and quality. This review systematically summarizes the fishy odor composition, identification methods, generation mechanism, and elimination methods of fishy odor compounds from their origin and formation to their elimination. Fishy odor compounds include aldehydes (hexanal, heptanal, and nonanal), alcohols (1-octen-3-ol), sulfur-containing compounds (dimethyl sulfide), and amines (trimethylamine). The mechanism of action of various factors affecting fishy odor is revealed, including environmental factors, enzymatic reactions, lipid oxidation, protein degradation, and microbial metabolism. Furthermore, the control and removal of fishy odor are briefly summarized and discussed, including masking, elimination, and conversion. This study provides a theoretical basis from source to elimination for achieving targeted regulation of the flavor of aquatic products, promoting industrial innovation and upgrading.

Panorama of biogenic nano-fertilizers: A road to sustainable agriculture

The ever-increasing demand for food from the growing population has augmented the consumption of fertilizers in global agricultural practices. However, the excessive usage of chemical fertilizers with poor efficacy is drastically deteriorating ecosystem health through the degradation of soil fertility by diminishing soil microflora, environment contamination, and human health by inducing chemical remnants to the food chain. These challenges have been addressed by the integration of nanotechnological and biotechnological approaches resulting in nano-enabled biogenic fertilizers (NBF), which have revolutionized agriculture sector and food production. This review critically details the state-of-the-art NBF production, types, and mechanism involved in cultivating crop productivity/quality with insights into genetic, physiological, morphological, microbiological, and physiochemical attributes. Besides, it explores the associated challenges and future routes to promote the adoption of NBF for intelligent and sustainable agriculture. Furthermore, diverse applications of nanotechnology in precision agriculture including plant biosensors and its impact on agribusiness and environmental management are discussed.

Activated natural zeolites for beer filtration: A pilot scale approach

A clinoptilolite-rich natural zeolite was tested as a substitute for kieselguhr as a filtering material to eliminate ingredients that cause beer haze formation. Two-grain sizes of micronized natural zeolite were thermally activated to 400 °C, to enhance its adsorption performance and remove the impurities adsorbed in the microporous system of zeolites, followed by their physicochemical characterization. The activated zeolites mixed with four commercial filter aids in different ratios were used for beer filtration at the pilot scale. Most of the physicochemical and sensory characteristics of beers filtered with commercial filter aids and with zeolites were similar. Using zeolite in filtering mixtures significantly reduces the number of microorganisms present in the filtered beer, which can eliminate the necessity of beer sterilization after filtration. The results evidenced that activated natural zeolites, which are cheap materials, are promising candidates as filter aids and can replace kieselguhr without producing any degradation of the beer filtration process.

Insecticidal Effect of Diatomaceous Earth Formulations for the Control of a Wide Range of Stored-Product Beetle Species

Diatomaceous earth (DE) formulations are promising alternatives over the use of traditional insecticides. In the present study, a series of laboratory bioassays was carried out to assess the efficacy of three diatomaceous earth formulations, i.e., Silicid, Celatom^® MN-23, and SilicoSec^®, for the control of a wide range of stored-product insect species in soft wheat. The species tested were Tribolium confusum, Tribolium castaneum, Sitophilus oryzae, Sitophilus granarius, Rhyzopertha dominica, Oryzaephilus surinamensis, and Alphitobious diaperinus. Different dose rates, i.e., 0 (control), 100, 300, 500, and 1000 ppm, were used for each of the aforementioned dust formulations. Mortality levels of the exposed individuals were assessed after 3, 7, 14, and 21 days of exposure. Moreover, progeny were counted 65 days later. Based on our results, dust formulations were effective for the control of most of the stored-product beetle species tested. Among the DE formulations tested, Silicid could adequately control the stored-product insect species. Complete suppression of offspring was observed only for secondary species (T. confusum, T. castaneum, O. surinamensis, and A. diaperinus). For primary species (S. oryzae, S. granarius, and R. dominica), the lowest number of progeny was observed in wheat treated with Silicid. For instance, in the case of R. dominica, significantly fewer individuals were produced in Silicid-treated wheat at the highest dose rate. The results of the present study aim to encourage the utilization of DE in stored-product protection as an integrated pest management tool. Additional experimentation is required to apply the tested DE formulations in the field and on different surfaces.

Natural and Synthetic Clay Minerals in the Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Fields

Clay minerals are historically among the most used materials with a wide variety of applications. In pharmaceutical and biomedical fields, their healing properties have always been known and used in pelotherapy and therefore attractive for their potential. In recent decades, the research has therefore focused on the systematic investigation of these properties. This review aims to describe the most relevant and recent uses of clays in the pharmaceutical and biomedical field, especially for drug delivery and tissue engineering purposes. Clay minerals, which are biocompatible and non-toxic materials, can act as carriers for active ingredients while controlling their release and increasing their bioavailability. Moreover, the combination of clays and polymers is useful as it can improve the mechanical and thermal properties of polymers, as well as induce cell adhesion and proliferation. Different types of clays, both of natural (such as montmorillonite and halloysite) and synthetic origin (layered double hydroxides and zeolites), were considered in order to compare them and to assess their advantages and different uses.

Enhancing Yield and Physiological Performance by Foliar Applications of Chemically Inert Mineral Particles in a Rainfed Vineyard under Mediterranean Conditions

One of the biggest environmental challenges that most of the traditional and modern grape-growing areas are facing is the frequency, severity, and unpredictability of extreme weather events as a result of climate change. Sustainable tools such as chemically inert mineral particles could be a valid alternative for the promotion of environmentally-friendly viticultural techniques to enhance yield, improve physiological processes, and increase tolerance to biotic/abiotic stressors and grape quality. In regard to this concept, the effects of kaolin (KL) and zeolite (ZL) application was tested in the rosé grapevine cultivar Roditis, field-and rainfed, under the Mediterranean conditions of central Greece. In a two-year trial, the whole vine canopy was sprayed with kaolin and zeolite until runoff at a dose of 3% (w/v) twice throughout the growing season; the first at the beginning of veraison and the second one week later; treatment of the untreated control plants was also performed (C). The assimilation rate in morning and midday, the stomatal conductance, and the WUEi of the leaves of the treated and untreated plants were monitored one day after each application and at harvest. During the same time period of the day (i.e., morning and midday) in July, August, and September, the leaf temperature near the fruit zone was also recorded. At harvest, the yield parameters, cluster characteristics, grape composition, and incidence (%) of sunburned and dehydrated berries as well as berries infected by Plasmopara viticola and Lobesia botrana were recorded. The results showed that KL and ZL application decreased leaf temperature during the growing season until harvest compared to the control treatment, which resulted in an improvement in physiological parameters such as net photosynthesis and intrinsic water use efficiency. At harvest, the KL- and ZL-treated vines showed increased yield due to an increasing cluster and berry fresh weight. On the other hand, the KL and ZL application did not affect the sugar concentration and pH of the must and increased the total acidity and decreased the total phenolic compound content, but only in the first year of the experiments. Furthermore, the incidence of sunburn necrosis, dehydrated berries, and infected berries was significantly lower in the treated vines compared to the control vines. These results confirm the promising potential of kaolin and zeolite applications as a stress mitigation strategy during the summer period, with the ability to protect grapevine plants, enhance yield, and maintain or improve fruit quality in rainfed Mediterranean vineyards.

Combining Zeolites with Early-Maturing Annual Legume Cover Crops in Rainfed Orchards: Effects on Yield, Fatty Acid Composition and Polyphenolic Profile of Olives and Olive Oil

Under climate change threats, there is a growing need to adapt the conventional agronomic practices used in rainfed olive orchards by sustainable practices, in order to ensure adequate crop yield and olive oil quality and to preserve soil health. Therefore, for two years, the effects of conventional tillage practice (T) and two sustainable soil management strategies, a leguminous cover crop (LC) and its combination with natural zeolites (ZL), on the yield, fatty acid composition, polyphenolic profile and quality indices of olive fruits and oil were evaluated. Crop yield was significantly increased by LC and ZL in the first year. Although in the second year no significant differences were verified, the cumulative yield increased significantly by 31.6% and 35.5% in LC and ZL trees, respectively. LC enhanced the moisture and size of olives, while ZL increased, in general, the concentrations of oleuropein, verbascoside, caffeic acid and epicatechin, as well the oleic/linoleic ratio in fruits and the levels of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylglycol, tyrosol, verbascoside and caffeic acid in olive oil. Despite the higher concentration of total phenols in the fruits and oil from T trees in the warmer and dryer year, the quality of the oil decreased, mainly when compared with ZL, as evidenced by the peroxide value and K232 and K270 coefficients. In short, both sustainable soil management strategies appear to be promising practices to implement in olive orchards under rainfed conditions, but the innovative strategy of combining zeolites with legume cover crops, first reported in the present study, confers advantages from a nutritional and technological point of view. Nevertheless, studies subjected to the long-term use of these practices should be conducted to ensure the sustainability of the crop yield and olive oil quality.

Preparation, Characterization, and Performance of Natural Zeolites as Alternative Materials for Beer Filtration

The clarity of the beer is essential to its marketability and good consumer approval. Moreover, the beer filtration aims to remove the unwanted constituents that cause beer haze formation. Natural zeolite, an inexpensive and widespread material, was tested as a substitute filter media for diatomaceous earth in removing the haze constituents in beer. The zeolitic tuff samples were collected from two quarries in Northern Romania: Chilioara, in which the zeolitic tuff has a clinoptilolite content of about 65%, and the Valea Pomilor quarry, containing zeolitic tuff with a clinoptilolite content of about 40%. Two-grain sizes, <40 and <100 µm, from each quarry were prepared and thermally treated at 450 °C in order to improve their adsorption properties and remove organic compounds and for physico-chemical characterization. The prepared zeolites were used for beer filtration in different mixtures with commercial filter aids (DIF BO and CBL3) in laboratory-scale experiments, and the filtered beer was characterized in terms of pH, turbidity, color, taste, flavor, and concentrations of the major and trace elements. The results showed that the taste, flavor, and pH of the filtered beer were generally not affected by filtration, while turbidity and color decreased with an increase in the zeolite content used in the filtration. The concentrations of Na and Mg in the beer were not significantly altered by filtration; Ca and K slowly increased, while Cd and Co were below the limits of quantification. Our results show that natural zeolites are promising aids for beer filtration and can be readily substituted for diatomaceous earth without significant changes in brewery industry process equipment and protocols for preparation.

The Impact of Long-Term Clinoptilolite Administration on the Concentration Profile of Metals in Rodent Organisms

Heavy metals are dangerous systemic toxicants that can induce multiple organ damage, primarily by inducing oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage. Clinoptilolite is a highly porous natural mineral with a magnificent capacity to eliminate metals from living organisms, mainly by ion-exchange and adsorption, thus providing detoxifying, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory medicinal effects. The in vivo efficiency and safety of the oral administration of clinoptilolite in its activated forms, tribomechanically activated zeolite (TMAZ) and Panaceo-Micro-Activated (PMA) zeolite, as well as the impact on the metallic biodistribution, was examined in healthy female rats. Concentration profiles of Al, As, Cd, Co, Pb, Ni and Sr were measured in rat blood, serum, femur, liver, kidney, small and large intestine, and brain using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) after a 12-week administration period. Our results point to a beneficial effect of clinoptilolite materials on the concentration profile of metals in female rats supplemented with the corresponding natural clinoptilolite materials, TMAZ and PMA zeolite. The observed decrease of measured toxicants in the kidney, femur, and small and large intestine after three months of oral intake occurred concomitantly with their most likely transient release into the bloodstream (serum) indicative of a detoxification process.

Assessment of health safety of pigs taking natural sorbents with feed

BACKGROUND

The study assessed the effect of smectites (bentonite and zeolite) used as natural sorbents in the diet of pigs on feed digestibility, health parameters, the severity of anatomo-histological changes in organs, and the accumulation of volatile pollutants in organs.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was conducted using fattening pigs (crossbreds from multiple breeds) assigned to three groups - a control (C) and two experimental groups (A and B), with 240 pigs in each group (3 replicates × 80). The animals in group C received a standard complete diet, while groups A and B received diets with 1.5% composed smectite sorbents. The feed and faeces were analysed for content of dry matter, crude ash, crude protein, ether extract, and crude fibre. The content of P was determined using a Helios Alpha UV-VIS spectrophotometer. Whole blood was analysed for haematological parameters and serum for biochemical parameters. Tissue samples were collected for analysis of volatile substances and histological analysis. After slaughter, samples of the lungs, liver, kidneys and jejunum were collected for morphological evaluation, and samples of the perirenal fat, liver, kidneys, lungs and brain for headspace gas chromatography (GC) to determine the levels of volatile toxic substances.

RESULTS

A statistical increase in the digestibility of crude fibre and an increase in that of P were observed in both experimental groups (A and B) in comparison to the control. The whole blood and serum of the pigs from the control group had statistically significantly higher levels of creatinine, urea, and Mg and a higher WBC count compared to both experimental groups (A and B).

CONCLUSIONS

The feed additives were not shown to have a negative effect on the health parameters analysed or on accumulation of pollutants in selected tissues. No significant effect on the digestibility of most nutrients was observed; only an increase in the digestibility of crude fibre and a decrease in P digestibility were noted in the experimental groups.

Essential Oils Encapsulated in Zeolite Structures as Delivery Systems (EODS): An Overview

Essential oils (EO) obtained from plants have proven industrial applications in the manufacturing of perfumes and cosmetics, in the production and flavoring of foods and beverages, as therapeutic agents in aromatherapy, and as the active principles or excipients of medicines and pharmaceutics due to their olfactory, physical-chemical, and biological characteristics. On behalf of the new paradigm of a more natural and sustainable lifestyle, EO are rather appealing due to their physical, chemical, and physiological actions in human beings. However, EO are unstable and susceptible to degradation or loss. To tackle this aspect, the encapsulation of EO in microporous structures as zeolites is an attractive solution, since these host materials are cheap and non-toxic to biological environments. This overview provides basic information regarding essential oils, including their recognized benefits and functional properties. Current progress regarding EO encapsulation in zeolite structures is also discussed, highlighting some representative examples of essential oil delivery systems (EODS) based on zeolites for healthcare applications or aromatherapy.

Zeolites: A series of promising biomaterials in bone tissue engineering

As an important worldwide medical issue, bone defect exhibits a variety of physical and psychological consequences on sufferers. Some features of clinical treatments including bone grafting and limb shortening are not satisfactory. Recently, bone tissue engineering has been considered as the most effective approach to dealing with the issue of bone deformities. Meanwhile, a variety of biomaterials have been rationally designed and created for the bone regeneration and tissue repairing. Among all these admirable biomaterials for bone remodeling, zeolite-based materials can serve as efficient scaffold candidates with excellent osteo-inductivity. In addition, the porous nature and high biocompatibility of zeolites endow them with the ability as ideal substrates for cell adhesion and proliferation. More importantly, zeolites are investigated as potential coating materials for implants because they have been proven to increase osteo-conductivity and aid in local elastic modeling. Last but not least, zeolites can also be used to treat bone disorders and act as dietary supplements during the practical applications. Accordingly, numerous benefits of zeolite prompt us to summarize their recent biomedical progress including but not limited to the distinguishing characteristics, broad classifications, as well as promising usages in bone tissue engineering.

Ion exchange capacity of synthetic zeolite L: a promising way for cerium recovery

The increasing rare earth elements' (REE) demand to meet the market request and the current political scenario show that it is essential to find good solutions to recover these elements from waste (both industrial and mining). Zeolites are microporous materials with high cation exchange capacity, up to now only little investigated for REE recycle. Here, we propose the use of NH4+-exchanged zeolite L for Ce recovery from a very diluted solution (0.002 M), mimicking the Ce3+ concentration of the liquors deriving from the leaching of spent catalysts. The aim of this work is twofold: (i) to investigate the exploitability of zeolite L as cation exchanger in the Ce recovery; and (ii) to determine the best working conditions. The investigated process consists of a coupled cation exchange: (1) in the first exchange the NH4+ cations - present in the zeolite porosities - are exchanged with the Ce3+ ions in the solution; and (2) in the second experiment, the Ce3+ trapped into the zeolite is recovered through a further exchange with NH4. The best working conditions for Ce3+ exchange of NH4-zeolite L are: batch system, liquid/solid ratio equal to 90 mL/g and 180 mL/g, 24 h of contact at 25 °C. The resulting Ce adsorption capacity (qt) is equal to ~25 mg/g and ~39 mg/g and the removal efficiency 100% and 77% for the two tested liquid/solid ratios, respectively. The kinetics was proved to be fast and consistent with industrial timing; no energy cost for temperature setting is required; and the acid pH (~4) of the solutions does not affect the zeolite structure stability and its exchange performance. It has been demonstrated that the zeolite framework is not affected by the exchange so that the same absorbent material can be employed many times.

Study of zeolite anti-caking effects for fertilisers by 1H low-field NMR

Caking is associated with the consolidation of dry powder and granules, leading to losses of function and/or quality. It has been object of studies in the pharmaceutical, food and fertiliser areas since 1920's because of its significant impact on product quality and value. Caking has been described as a three-step event consisting of sorption-dissolution-recrystallisation phases and constitutes a critical factor in fertilisers losses during storage while also hampering fertiliser application. Current methods for the evaluation of water sorption dynamics are expensive, time-consuming and/or inaccurate. This manuscript describes an unprecedented application of low-field ¹H NMR relaxometry for the kinetic study of humidity uptake, in real-time, by urea mixed with different concentrations of an anti-caking agent (zeolite). The proposed method allows to follow the water uptake in different domains of the mixed fertiliser/zeolite samples. To our knowledge, this dynamic has not been observed and quantified so far in real-time. Furthermore, we presented the use of 2D-ILT for kinetic studies, being the first dimension the usual transverse relaxation and the second dimension the kinetic one. With this approach, the NMR relaxation times T₂ correlated to time constants associated with the uptake kinetics of the water. This method could be extended to several kinetic studies and experiments with temperature variation. Depending on the kinetics of the studied process, the kernel of the Laplace transform must be suitably adapted.

Zeolites Reduce the Transfer of Potentially Toxic Elements from Soil to Leafy Vegetables

The ability of natural zeolite amendment to reduce the uptake of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) by lettuce, spinach and parsley was evaluated using pot experiments. PTE concentrations in roots and shoots, as well as the pseudo total (PT), water soluble (WS) and bioavailable (BA) PTE fractions in the amended soils, were assessed. Although the PT PTE concentration was high, the WS fraction was very low (<0.4%), while the BA fraction varied widely (<5% for Cr, Mn and Co, <15% for Ni, Pb and Zn, >20% for Cd and Cu). PTE concentration decreased in both roots and shoots of all leafy vegetables grown on zeolite amended soils, especially at high amendment dose (10%). The uptake of PTEs mainly depended on plant species, PTE type and amendment dose. With the exception of Zn in spinach, the bioaccumulation factor for roots was higher than for shoots. Generally, lettuce displayed the highest PTE bioaccumulation capacity, followed by spinach and parsley. Except for Zn in spinach, the transfer factors were below 1 for all PTEs, all plant species and all amendment doses. Our results showed that the natural zeolites are promising candidates in the reclamation of contaminated soils due to their ability to immobilize PTEs.

Overview on Recent Developments in the Design, Application, and Impacts of Nanofertilizers in Agriculture

Nutrient management is always a great concern for better crop production. The optimized use of nutrients plays a key role in sustainable crop production, which is a major global challenge as it depends mainly on synthetic fertilizers. A novel fertilizer approach is required that can boost agricultural system production while being more ecologically friendly than synthetic fertilizers. As nanotechnology has left no field untouched, including agriculture, by its scientific innovations. The use of nanofertilizers in agriculture is in the early stage of development, but they appear to have significant potential in different ways, such as increased nutrient-use efficiency, the slow release of nutrients to prevent nutrient loss, targeted delivery, improved abiotic stress tolerance, etc. This review summarizes the current knowledge on various developments in the design and formulation of nanoparticles used as nanofertilizers, their types, their mode of application, and their potential impacts on agricultural crops. The main emphasis is given on the potential benefits of nanofertilizers, and we highlight the current limitations and future challenges related to the wide-scale application before field applications. In particular, the unprecedent release of these nanomaterials into the environment may jeopardize human health and the ecosystem. As the green revolution has occurred, the production of food grains has increased at the cost of the disproportionate use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, which have severely damaged our ecosystem. We need to make sure that the use of these nanofertilizers reduces environmental damage, rather than increasing it. Therefore, future studies should also check the environmental risks associated with these nanofertilizers, if there are any; moreover, it should focus on green manufactured and biosynthesized nanofertilizers, as well as their safety, bioavailability, and toxicity issues, to safeguard their application for sustainable agriculture environments.

Novel Materials for Urban Farming

Scarcity of natural resources, shifting demographics, climate change, and increasing waste are four major challenges in the quest to feed the exploding world population. These challenges serve as the impetus to harness novel technologies to improve agriculture, productivity, and sustainability. Urban farming has several advantages over conventional farming: higher productivity, improved sustainability, and the ability to provide fresh food all year round. Novel materials are key to accelerating the evolution of urban farming - with their ability to facilitate controlled release of nutrients and pesticides, improved seed health, substrates with better water retention capability, more efficient recycling of agricultural waste, and precise plant health monitoring. Materials science enables environmental sustainability and higher harvest yields in urban farms. Here, Singapore is used as an example of a land-scarce city where urban farming may be the solution for future food production. Potential research directions and challenges in urban farming are highlighted, and how material optimization and innovation drive the development of urban farming to meet national and global food demands is briefly discussed. This review serves as a guide for researchers and a reference for stakeholders of urban farms, policy makers, and other interested parties.

Purified Clinoptilolite-Tuff as an Efficient Sorbent for Gluten Derived from Food

Various gluten-related diseases (celiac disease, wheat allergy, gluten sensitivity) are known and their incidence is growing. Gluten is a specific type of plant storage protein that can impair the health of gluten-prone persons following consumption, depending on the origin. The most severe effects are induced by wheat, barley, and rye. The only treatment is based on the absolute avoidance of those foods, as even traces might have severe effects on human well-being. With the goal of binding gluten impurities after ingestion, an in vitro setting was created. A special processed kind of zeolite, purified clinoptilolite-tuff (PCT), was implemented as an adsorber of gluten derived from different origins. Zeolites are known for their excellent sorption capacities and their applications in humans and animals have been studied for a long time. Tests were also performed in artificial gastric and intestinal fluids, and the adsorption capacity was determined via a certified validated method (ELISA). Depending on the kind of gluten source, 80–130 µg/mg of gluten were bound onto PCT. Hence, purified clinoptilolite-tuff, which was successfully tested for wheat, barley, and rye, proved to be suitable for the adsorption of gluten originating from different kinds of crops. This result might form the basis for an expedient human study in the future.

Nanofertilizers for agricultural and environmental sustainability

Indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers in the agricultural production systems to keep pace with the food and nutritional demand of the galloping population had an adverse impact on ecosystem services and environmental quality. Hence, an alternative mechanism is to be developed to enhance farm production and environmental sustainability. A nanohybrid construct like nanofertilizers (NFs) is an excellent alternative to overcome the negative impact of traditional chemical fertilizers. The NFs provide smart nutrient delivery to the plants and proves their efficacy in terms of crop productivity and environmental sustainability over bulky chemical fertilizers. Plants can absorb NFs by foliage or roots depending upon the application methods and properties of the particles. NFs enhance the biotic and abiotic stresses tolerance in plants. It reduces the production cost and mitigates the environmental footprint. Multitude benefits of the NFs open new vistas towards sustainable agriculture and climate change mitigation. Although supra-optimal doses of NFs have a detrimental effect on crop growth, soil health, and environmental outcomes. The extensive release of NFs into the environment and food chain may pose a risk to human health, hence, need careful assessment. Thus, a thorough review on the role of different NFs and their impact on crop growth, productivity, soil, and environmental quality is required, which would be helpful for the research of sustainable agriculture.

Nanotechnology-enabled biofortification strategies for micronutrients enrichment of food crops: Current understanding and future scope

Nutrient deficiency in food crops severely compromises human health, particularly in under privileged communities. Globally, billions of people, particularly in developing nations, have limited access to nutritional supplements and fortified foods, subsequently suffering from micronutrient deficiency leading to a range of health issues. The green revolution enhanced crop production and provided food to billions of people but often falls short with respect to the nutritional quality of that food. Plants may assimilate nutrients from synthetic chemical fertilizers, but this approach generally has low nutrient delivery and use efficiency. Further, the overexposure of chemical fertilizers may increase the risk of neoplastic diseases, render food crops unfit for consumption and cause environmental degradation. Therefore, to address these challenges, more research is needed for sustainable crop yield and quality enhancement with minimum use of chemical fertilizers. Complex nutritional disorders and 'hidden hunger' can be addressed through biofortification of food crops. Nanotechnology may help to improve food quality via biofortification as plants may readily acquire nanoparticle-based nutrients. Nanofertilizers are target specific, possess controlled release, and can be retained for relatively long time periods, thus prevent leaching or run-off from soil. This review evaluates the recent literature on the development and use of nanofertilizers, their effects on the environment, and benefits to food quality. Further, the review highlights the potential of nanomaterials on plant genetics in biofortification, as well as issues of affordability, sustainability, and toxicity.

Critical review on adsorptive removal of antibiotics: Present situation, challenges and future perspective

This review gives a proper dedicated understanding of the contamination level, sources, and biological dangers related with different classes of antibiotics in consumable water. The literature on the adsorption of antibiotics is relatively uncommon and developments are still under progression, especially for adsorbents other than activated carbon. Also, adsorption technique has already been applied vastly for water treatment. Notwithstanding significant progressions, designed natural wastewater treatment frameworks are just bearably effective (48-77%) in the expulsion of antibiotics. Hence, the compilation of available literature especially for antibiotic adsorption was much needed. Moreover, the conventional adsorbents have some limitations of their own. In this study, the main focus was laid on unconventional adsorbents such as Biochar, Biopolymers, Carbon Nanotubes, Clays, Metal-Organic Frameworks, Microalgae and some miscellaneous adsorbents. The mechanism of adsorption by the unconventional adsorbents includes electrostatic interactions, π-π bonding, weak Van der Waal forces, H-bonding and surface complexation, which was similar to that of conventional adsorbents and hence these unconventional adsorbents can easily replace the costlier conventional adsorbents with even better adsorption efficiency. This paper also briefly discussed the thermodynamics, adsorption equilibrium; isotherm and kinetics of adsorption. This review paper seizes the critical advances of adsorption phenomenon at various interfaces and lays the foundation for current scenario associated with further progress. Besides, this study would help in understanding the antibiotic adsorption, cost estimation and future goals that will attract the young the researchers of this field.

Characterisation of potentially toxic natural fibrous zeolites by means of electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy and morphological-mineralogical studies

This study explored the morphological, mineralogical, and physico-chemical features of carcinogenic erionite and other possibly hazardous zeolites, such as mesolite and thomsonite, while also investigating the interacting capability of the mineral surface at the liquid/solid interface. Extremely fibrous erionite is K⁺ and Ca²⁺-rich and shows the highest Si/Al ratio (3.38) and specific surface area (8.14 m²/g). Fibrous mesolite is Na⁺ and Ca²⁺-rich and displays both a lower Si/Al ratio (1.56) and a smaller specific surface area (1.56 m²/g). The thomsonite composition shows the lowest values of Si/Al ratio (1.23) and specific surface area (0.38 m²/g). Electron paramagnetic resonance data from selected spin probes reveal that erionite has a homogeneous site distribution and interacts well with all spin probes. The surfaces of mesolite and thomsonite are less homogeneous and closer polar sites were found through consequent interaction with the probes. The mesolite surface can also clearly interact but with a lower strength and may represent a potential health hazard for humans, though with a lower degree if compared to erionite. The thomsonite surface is not inert and interacts with the probes with a low-grade capability. We can expect small fragments of thomsonite to interact with the biological environment, though with a low-grade intensity.

Exploring the Adsorption Properties of Zeolite in a New Skin Care Formulation

Introduction: Zeolites are natural or synthetic aluminosilicates, characterized by a regular and microporous crystalline structure that plays a particularly active role in neutralizing free radicals, screening UV rays and in the adsorption of toxins and heavy metals. Skin is one of the main areas for the accumulation of toxic substances released by environmental pollutants. The biological scavenger activity of zeolite opens a wide spectrum of applications in cosmetics and dermatology. Up to now, there is little evidence related to the use of natural zeolite in cosmetics. Aim: The purpose of this work was to evaluate the ability of zeolite to retain heavy metals in a new skin care formulation, in order to provide a proof of principle of its employment in the field of cosmetics. Materials and Methods: Taking the advantages of spiked samples, we studied the in vitro adsorption properties of zeolite in a new skin care formulation. The removal capacities of Cadmium, Lead, Chromium, Nickel and Cobalt were studied, using the inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). First of all, the better concentration of zeolite was defined, testing two different proportions of zeolite, from 1% to 3%, keeping all other components constant. Then, on the 3% formulation, the adsorption properties of each single metal were measured. Results and Conclusions: Our preliminary study demonstrated the selectivity of zeolite in retaining Cadmium (p < 0.0001), Nickel (p = 0.026), in a 3% zeolite-based formulation. This work provides a proof of principle of zeolite employment in the field of cosmetics. Based on the data collected, our work provides a scientific proof of principle of zeolite employment in the field of cosmetics. New and extensive research will be needed to explore all the potential benefits of zeolite.

Studies of Clinoptilolite-Rich Zeolitic Tuffs from Different Regions and Their Activity in Photodegradation of Methylene Blue

The present study focuses on clinoptilolite (CLI)-rich natural zeolitic tuffs and their photocatalytic activity in the degradation of cationic organic dyes. CLI from different regions was tested in the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) as a model cationic dye. The photocatalytic tests were performed at room temperature and atmospheric pressure under visible light irradiation. For all the CLI samples, the highest activity was observed at pH = 6. Total MB degradation varied between 70 and 91% (C0 = 10 mg dm–3, 0.2 g dm–3 of photocatalyst, during 300 min). It is suggested that the presence of Fe species in the studied tuffs is responsible for the photocatalytic activity. The activity increases linearly with the Fe content in the tuffs. The MB photodegradation follows the Langmuir–Hinshelwood kinetic model. The recyclability tests showed good stability and efficiency of the photocatalyst. The degradation rate decreased from 91 to 69% during three reaction cycles, indicating a promising potential of natural zeolites in the treatment of textile industry wastewater.

Characterization of Cuban and Brazilian natural zeolites by photoacoustic spectroscopy and electron paramagnetic resonance

This report describes the photoacoustic and electron paramagnetic resonance investigations of Brazilian and Cuban zeolites. Photoacoustic optical absorption measurements indicate the presence of iron (Fe3+) ions with their respective transition bands for both zeolites. Two species of manganese (Mn2+ and Mn3+) were identified in the Cuban sample and the electronic transitions assigned. Iron and manganese ions were confirmed through nonradiative relaxation (τ) and characteristic diffusion (τβ) times evaluation, whose values were found to be τBRA = 5.40 ms, τCUB = 4.60 ms, τβBRA = 387 μs and τβCUB = 305 μs. Crystal field (Dq-BRA/Dq-CUB = 1048 cm-1/945 cm-1) plus Racah (B-BRA/B-CUB = 457 cm-1/813 cm-1 and C-BRA/C-CUB = 3655 cm-1/2496 cm-1) parameters were assessed as well. Paramagnetic resonance corroborated Fe3+ ions present in the Brazilian zeolite occupying sites showing axial and/or rhombic symmetry distortions. For the Cuban sample, results reveal the characteristic hyperfine sextet lines of Mn2+ overlapping the Fe3+ line. Values of Landé factor and isotropic hyperfine splitting constant were found to be 2.0 and 9.7 mT, respectively. This tells us that the Mn2+ lies in octahedral symmetry probably replacing calcium ions and point towards an ionic bonding character of the Mn2+ and its surroundings.

Organic transformations in the confined space of porous organic cage CC2; catalysis or inhibition

Porous organic cages have shape persistent cavities which provide a suitable platform for encapsulation of guest molecules with size suitably fitting to the cavity. The interactions of the guest molecule with the porous organic cage significantly alter the properties of the guest molecule. Herein, we report the effect of encapsulation on the kinetics of various organic transformations including 2 + 4 cycloaddition, 1,5-sigmatropic, 6π-electrocyclization, ring expansion, cheletropic, dyotropic, trimerization and tautomerization reactions. Non-bonding interactions are generated between the CC2 cage and encapsulated species. However, the number and nature/strength of interactions are different for reactant and TS with the CC2 cage and this difference detects the reaction to be accelerated or slowed down. A significant drop in the barrier of reactions is observed for reactions involving strong interactions of the transition state within the cage. However, for some reactions such as the Claisen rearrangement, reactants are stabilized more than the transition state and therefore an increase in activation barrier is observed. Furthermore, non-covalent analyses of all transition states (inside the cage) confirm the interaction between the CC2 cage and substrate. The current study will promote further exploration of the potential of other porous structures for similar applications.

Porous organic cages have shape persistent cavities which provide a suitable platform for encapsulation of guest molecules with size suitably fitting to the cavity.

Immobilized phytases: an overview of different strategies, support material, and their applications in improving food and feed nutrition

Phytases are the most widely used food and feed enzymes, which aid in nutritional improvement by reducing anti-nutritional factor. Despite the benefits, enzymes usage in the industry is restricted by several factors such as their short life-span and poor reusability, which result in high costs for large-scale utilization at commercial scale. Furthermore, under pelleting conditions such as high temperatures, pH, and other factors, the enzyme becomes inactive due to lesser stability. Immobilization of phytases has been suggested as a way to overcome these limitations with improved performance. Matrices used to immobilize phytases include inorganic (Hydroxypatite, zeolite, and silica), organic (Polyacrylamide, epoxy resins, alginate, chitosan, and starch agar), soluble matrix (Polyvinyl alcohol), and nanomaterials including nanoparticles, nanofibers, nanotubes. Several surface analysis methods, including thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and FTIR analysis, have been used to characterize immobilized phytase. Immobilized phytases have been used in a broad range of biotechnological applications such as animal feed, biodegradation of food phytates, preparations of myo-inositol phosphates, and sulfoxidation by vanadate-substituted peroxidase. This article provides information on different matrices used for phytase immobilization from the last two decades, including the process of immobilization and support material, surface analysis techniques, and multifarious biotechnological applications of the immobilized phytases.

Diatomaceous Earth for Arthropod Pest Control: Back to the Future

Nowadays, we are tackling various issues related to the overuse of synthetic insecticides. Growing concerns about biodiversity, animal and human welfare, and food security are pushing agriculture toward a more sustainable approach, and research is moving in this direction, looking for environmentally friendly alternatives to be adopted in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) protocols. In this regard, inert dusts, especially diatomaceous earths (DEs), hold a significant promise to prevent and control a wide range of arthropod pests. DEs are a type of naturally occurring soft siliceous sedimentary rock, consisting of the fossilized exoskeleton of unicellular algae, which are called diatoms. Mainly adopted for the control of stored product pests, DEs have found also their use against some household insects living in a dry environment, such as bed bugs, or insects of agricultural interest. In this article, we reported a comprehensive review of the use of DEs against different arthropod pest taxa, such as Acarina, Blattodea, Coleoptera, Diptera, Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Ixodida, Lepidoptera, when applied either alone or in combination with other techniques. The mechanisms of action of DEs, their real-world applications, and challenges related to their adoption in IPM programs are critically reported.

Application of natural and synthetic zeolites in the oenological field

Zeolites are crystalline hydrated aluminosilicates, of natural or synthetic origin, characterized by a microporous structure and high adsorption properties. They are employed as soil amendments and fertilizer carriers in agriculture, as catalysts, detergents, adsorbents and molecular sieves in many chemical processes, as well as in water and soil decontamination, and in food processing. They have been also tested in the oenological field for several potential applications; yet an overview on such topic is not still available. The present review summarizes the recent and innovative applications of zeolites in winemaking and supplies a critical discussion about their potential to prevent protein haze, tartrate instability or the appearance of certain defects, like light-struck off-flavour and earthy off-flavours. Further applications of these minerals in the management of winery wastes and in the analytical field are also reviewed. The outcomes of this work evidenced the need of further research on the use of zeolites in oenology for better exploiting their peculiar sorption and exchange properties, selecting the most efficient natural types and improving the performances of the synthetic ones, without disregarding the potential secondary effects of these treatments on wine quality.

Effects of Siliceous Natural Nanomaterials Applied in Combination with Foliar Fertilizers on Physiology, Yield and Fruit Quality of the Apricot and Peach Trees

Siliceous natural nanomaterials (SNNMs), i.e., diatomaceous earth and natural zeolites, have a nanoporous structure with large active surfaces that adsorb cations or polarized molecules. Such nanoporous feature determines the effects related to SNNM utilization as low-risk plant protectants and soil improvers. This work used SNNMs from Romanian quarries as carriers for foliar fertilizers applied to stone-fruit trees, apricot and peach. We determined the effects of SNNMs on the physiology, yield and fruit quality of the treated stone-fruit trees. SNNM application determined impacts specific to the formation of particle films on leaves: reduced leaf temperature (up to 4.5 °C) and enhanced water use efficiency (up to 30%). Foliar fertilizers' effects on yield are amplified by their application with SNNMs. Yield is increased up to 8.1% by the utilization of SNNMs with foliar fertilizers, compared to applying foliar fertilizer alone. Diatomaceous earth and natural zeolites promote the accumulation of polyphenols in apricot and peach fruits. The combined application of SNNMs and foliar fertilizer enhance the performance of peach and apricot trees.

Growth performance and meat quality from broiler chickens reared with zeolite and halloysite in feed and straw pellet

The study's aim was to analyze the effects of different levels of halloysite (H) and zeolite (Z) in feed and pellets on the growth and meat quality in chickens; 500 Ross 308 broilers were assigned to five groups (1 g, control; 2-5 g, experimental). In Groups 2-5, different proportions of Z and H in feed (25:75 ratio; 0.5% to 2%) and pellet in kg/m² (2, 0.650H; 3, 0.325H and 0.325Z; 4, 0.650Z; 5, 0.160H and 0.490Z) were used. Body weight was higher than 1 in all experimental groups, and carcass weight was higher, except for Group 2. The feed consumption was lower in Groups 3 and 5 than in Group 4. The breast muscle weight was higher in Group 3 than in the control group. In Groups 2, 3, and 5, the water holding capacity in the breast muscles was better than in Group 4 and in the leg muscles in Groups 3 and 4 than in Groups 1 and 5. Most of the tested characteristics indicate a beneficial effect of aluminosilicates in feed and litter on the growth and quality of meat.

A Short Review on the Utilization of Incense Sticks Ash as an Emerging and Overlooked Material for the Synthesis of Zeolites

The traditional hydrothermal synthesis methods are mainly performed under batch operation, which generally takes few days to weeks to yield a zeolite with the desired properties and structure. The zeolites are the backbone of the petrochemical and wastewater industries due to their importance. The commercial methods for zeolite synthesis are expensive, laborious and energy intensive. Among waste products, incense sticks ash is a compound of aluminosilicates and could act as a potential candidate for the synthesis of zeolites for daily needs in these industries. Incense sticks ash is the byproduct of religious places and houses and is rich in Ca, Mg, Al and Si. As a result, incense sticks ash can be proven to be a potential candidate for the formation of calcium-rich zeolites. The formation of zeolites from incense sticks ash is an economical, reliable and eco-friendly method. The application of incense sticks ash for zeolite synthesis can also minimize the problem related to its disposal in the water bodies, which will also minimize the solid waste in countries where it is considered sacred and generated in tons every day.

The Impact of Hydrated Aluminosilicates Supplemented in Litter and Feed on Chicken Growth, Muscle Traits and Gene Expression in the Intestinal Mucosa

Simple Summary

Poultry meat production has many challenges; one of them is the optimized use of natural feed and litter additives. Aluminosilicates have many properties, stimulating both the health and growth of birds and influencing the hygienic status of production. The objectives of the study were to compare growth, meat quality traits and gene expression in the intestinal mucosa of chickens, where halloysite and zeolite were added to the feed and litter simultaneously. There was a similar growth performance in all tested groups. There was no negative impact on most of the meat characteristics, and a positive effect on the water-holding capacity of the breast muscles was observed. The immunostimulatory and immunoregulatory properties of natural minerals have been demonstrated. Therefore, their use in the production of broiler chickens can be recommended.

Abstract

The aim of the study was to compare the production, muscle traits and gene expression in the intestinal mucosa of chickens supplemented with aluminosilicates in feed and litter simultaneously. A total of 300 Ross 308 were maintained for 42 days. Group 1 was the control group. In group 2, 0.650 kg/m² of halloysite was added to the litter and 0.5–2% to the feed (halloysite and zeolite in a 1:1 ratio); in group 3, we added zeolite (0.650 kg/m²) to the litter and 0.5–2% to the feed. The production parameters, the slaughter yield and analyses of muscle quality were analyzed. There was a higher body weight, body weight gain and feed conversion ratio on day 18 and 33 in group 3, and a higher feed intake on day 19–33 in groups 2 and 3 than in 1. A lower water-holding capacity was found in the breasts of group 2 and in the legs of group 3 compared to group 1. The expression of genes related to the immune response, host defense and intestinal barrier and nutrient sensing in the intestinal tissue was analyzed. The results show a beneficial effect on the immune status of the host without an adverse effect on the expression of genes related to intestinal tightness or nutritional processes. Due to the growth, meat characteristics and the positive impact of immunostimulant and regulating properties, aluminosilicates can be suggested as a litter and feed additive in the rearing of chickens.

Reduction in Insect Attachment Caused by Different Nanomaterials Used as Particle Films (Kaolin, Zeolite, Calcium Carbonate)

In the present investigation, we compared the reduction in attachment ability of the southern green stinkbug Nezara viridula (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) to glass induced by three different nanoparticle (kaolin, zeolite, and calcium carbonate) films. Using traction force experiments, behavioral experiments, and scanning electron microscopy observations, we analyzed the insect attachment ability and linear speed on untreated and treated glass with the three particle films. The three nanomaterials strongly reduced insect attachment ability mainly owing to contamination of attachment pads. The ability to reduce insect attachment was different for the three tested particle films: kaolin and zeolite induced a significantly higher reduction in N. viridula safety factor than calcium carbonate. The coating of the surface was more uniform and compact in kaolin and zeolite compared to calcium carbonate particle film. Moreover, kaolin and zeolite particles can more readily adhere to N. viridula attachment devices, whereas calcium carbonate particles appeared less adherent to the cuticular surface compared to the two aluminosilicate (kaolin and zeolite) particles. Only the application of kaolin reduced insect linear speed during locomotion. Nanoparticle films have a great potential to reduce insect attachment ability and represent a good alternative to the use of insecticides for the control of pentatomid bugs and other pest insects.

Immobilization of Potentially Toxic Elements in Contaminated Soils Using Thermally Treated Natural Zeolite

Rehabilitation of contaminated soils is a complex and time-consuming procedure. One of the most cost-effective and easy-to-use soil remediation approaches is the use of amendments that stabilize the potential toxic elements (PTE) in soil by reducing their mobility and bioavailability. The stabilization of Cu, Pb, Zn, Cd, Co, Cr, Ni in a contaminated soil using 5% and 10% amendment with thermally treated natural zeolite was investigated using a sequential extraction procedure, contamination and environmental risk factors. The results showed that after amendment, the PTE concentration decreased in the exchangeable and reducible fractions and increased in the oxidizable and residual fractions. The highest immobilization effect, consisting in the decrease of exchangeable fractions with 69% was obtained in case of 10% zeolite amendment and 90 days of equilibration time for Pb; also, more than half of the mobile fraction was immobilized in case of Zn, Cu, and Co and about one third in case of Ni, Cr, and Cd. Generally, the immobilization effect of the 5% and 10% amendment is comparable, but a higher equilibration time enhanced the immobilization effect, especially in the case of Cd, Co, Cu, Pb, and Zn.

Synthetic and Natural Insecticides: Gas, Liquid, Gel and Solid Formulations for Stored-Product and Food-Industry Pest Control

The selective application of insecticides is one of the cornerstones of integrated pest management (IPM) and management strategies for pest resistance to insecticides. The present work provides a comprehensive overview of the traditional and new methods for the application of gas, liquid, gel, and solid physical insecticide formulations to control stored-product and food industry urban pests from the taxa Acarina, Blattodea, Coleoptera, Diptera, Hymenoptera, Lepidoptera, Psocoptera, and Zygentoma. Various definitions and concepts historically and currently used for various pesticide application formulations and methods are also described. This review demonstrates that new technological advances have sparked renewed research interest in the optimization of conventional methods such as insecticide aerosols, sprays, fumigants, and inert gases. Insect growth regulators/disruptors (IGRs/IGDs) are increasingly employed in baits, aerosols, residual treatments, and as spray-residual protectants for long-term stored-grain protection. Insecticide-impregnated hypoxic multilayer bags have been proven to be one of the most promising low-cost and safe methods for hermetic grain storage in developing countries. Insecticide-impregnated netting and food baits were originally developed for the control of urban/medical pests and have been recognized as an innovative technology for the protection of stored commodities. New biodegradable acaricide gel coatings and nets have been suggested for the protection of ham meat. Tablets and satchels represent a new approach for the application of botanicals. Many emerging technologies can be found in the form of impregnated protective packaging (insect growth regulators/disruptors (IGRs/IGDs), natural repellents), pheromone-based attracticides, electrostatic dust or sprays, nanoparticles, edible artificial sweeteners, hydrogels, inert baits with synthetic attractants, biodegradable encapsulations of active ingredients, and cyanogenic protective grain coatings. Smart pest control technologies based on RNA-based gene silencing compounds incorporated into food baits stand at the forefront of current strategic research. Inert gases and dust (diatomaceous earth) are positive examples of alternatives to synthetic pesticide products, for which methods of application and their integration with other methods have been proposed and implemented in practice. Although many promising laboratory studies have been conducted on the biological activity of natural botanical insecticides, published studies demonstrating their effective industrial field usage in grain stores and food production facilities are scarce. This review shows that the current problems associated with the application of some natural botanical insecticides (e.g., sorption, stability, field efficacy, and smell) to some extent echo problems that were frequently encountered and addressed almost 100 years ago during the transition from ancient to modern classical chemical pest control methods.