Site-Specific Controlled-Release Imidazolate Framework-8 for Dazomet Smart Delivery to Improve the Effective Utilization Rate and Reduce Biotoxicity

An accurate controlled-release strategy of pesticides is considered desirable in sustainable agriculture. A site-specificnanorelease system of dazomet (DZ) was proposed by employing the zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 composite (DZ@ZIF-8) by aone-pot method. The synthetic parameters of DZ@ZIF-8 were optimized, and the loading content of DZ was maximized. ZIF-8endowed DZ with a pH-sensitive behavior. The collapse of the DZ@ZIF-8 structure and the site-specific release of DZ weretriggered by acidic substances produced byBotrytis cinerea.In vitroand pot experiments showed that the fungicidal activity of DZ@ZIF-8 was about 36.3 and 42.7% higher than that of DZ, respectively. DZ is conventionally used before a crop is planted because ofits volatility and toxicity. However, DZ@ZIF-8 could avoid phytotoxicity of DZ to plants, which made the application of DZ possibleduring plant growth. Moreover, the acute toxicity to zebrafish changed from high to moderate levels. This study highlights a potentialstrategy that improves DZ effective utilization and reduces side effects.

Automated summary

An innovative controlled-release strategy of pesticides, using a nanocomposite DZ@ZIF-8, is proposed in this study. The results demonstrate that DZ@ZIF-8 exhibits higher fungicidal activity and reduced acute toxicity compared to conventional DZ. This research highlights the significance of improving pesticide utilization and minimizing side effects.