Utilizing Chitosan Nanoparticles To Deliver Natural Growth Promoters To Optimize Seed Germination In Glycine Max

This project aims to create biodegradable nanoparticles that deliver zinc ions to the soybean plant using a slow-release mechanism, allowing for accelerated seed germination without introducing synthetic materials into the environment and limiting overfertilization of agricultural land. Nanoparticles were formed using Ionic Gelation through an alginate pre-gel matrix. Once the nanoparticle solution was formed, the solution was then diluted to concentrations of 0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg/mL for further testing. Nanoparticle supplementation promoted shorter, thicker root growth in Glycine Max versus non-supplemented plants, suggesting improved zinc uptake as traditionally applied zinc fertilizers leach through the soil, requiring plants to develop longer roots to access it. Optimal growth was seen at 0.25 mg/mL, where plants doubled root quantity, increased root density by 74%, and shoot length by 25% under normal conditions. Under drought and nutrient deficient conditions, 0.25 mg/mL plants grew similarly to control conditions, suggesting nanoparticles improve water conservation within the plant and uptake of nutrients present in the soil ecosystem.