Project details

Project title: From Abiotic to Biotic: Evaluating the Ecotoxicity of Photoactive Nanomaterials in Fertilizers on Soil, Plants and Social Insects

Project ID: PN-IV-P2-2.1-TE-2023-2073

Project director: Assist. Prof. Gábor Kovács PhD.  (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9622-5471)

Funding body: Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digitization, CNCS–UEFISCDI, project number PN-IV-P2-2.1-TE-2023-2073, within PNCDI IV.

Budget: 500,000 RON

Objectives and Activities:

This research project aims to investigate the ecotoxicological impact of different nanofertilizers, with potential photocatalytic properties in their components, on an agricultural ecosystem through their effect on the soil, ants and plants. Nanofertilizers could include silica, Fe, ZnO, TiO₂, CeO₂ and different core–shell structures. However, some of these materials could have photocatalytic properties, which could raise concerns about their unintended consequences on the environment and living organisms.

First, the study will evaluate (aquatic) plants' sensitivity to these materials. By analyzing the effects on key physiological and photosynthetic parameters, growth patterns, and reproductive success, the research aims to quantify the ecotoxicity risks associated with exposure to photocatalytic nanomaterials. Additionally, the investigation will extend to terrestrial environments by studying the influence of treated/contaminated soils on the growth and development of model plants.

In the context of a holistic approach, the project will also examine the potential impacts on ants, a keystone species in many ecosystems. Ants are vital in soil health, nutrient cycling, and plant–pollinator interactions. By assessing their behavior, survival rates, and community structure following exposure to these photocatalytic nanomaterials, we can better understand the potential cascading effects on ecosystem dynamics.