SÍNTESE VERDE DE NANOPARTÍCULAS DE COBRE E O SEU POTENCIAL USO NA AGRICULTURA: UMA REVISÃO

Abstract

Green synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) has emerged as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to conventional physicochemical methods by eliminating the use of toxic reagents and reducing energy consumption. This study presents a literature review based on the analysis of 30 scientific studies on the biogenic synthesis of CuO NPs using plant extracts, fungi, and microorganisms as reducing and stabilizing agents. The findings demonstrate that the physicochemical properties of the nanomaterial are strongly influenced by experimental parameters such as pH, temperature, and the nature of the biological matrix. Characterization by UV–Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning/transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM) revealed a wide range of morphologies and crystallite sizes varying from 3 to 100 nm. In the agricultural context, CuO NPs exhibited multifunctional performance, acting as biostimulants that enhance seed germination and vegetative growth in crops such as tomato, lettuce, and wheat, particularly at low concentrations. In addition, they showed significant potential for phytosanitary control against major plant pathogens, including Fusarium oxysporum, as well as storage pests. However, the reviewed studies emphasize that their effects are strictly concentration-dependent, with high doses inducing phytotoxicity and oxidative stress. Overall, biogenic CuO NPs represent a promising innovation for sustainable agriculture. Nevertheless, the standardization of synthesis protocols and the assessment of their long-term environmental impacts remain essential challenges for their large-scale agricultural application.