Biogenic Synthesis
of Potassium Nanoparticles from Artocarpus hirsutus Leaf Extract: A Novel Nanofertilizer
for Enhanced Growth of Vigna radiata
Peddi Pavani
Res. J. Chem. Environ.; Vol. 29(3); 95-106;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/293rjce950106; (2025)
Abstract
The utilization of potassium nanoparticles as a novel nanofertilizer synthesized
through biogenic means represents a significant advancement in agricultural technology.
Potassium is a vital nutrient for plants, playing essential roles in growth, yield,
metabolism, enzymatic activity regulation and overall physiological functions. In
this study, potassium nanoparticles were synthesized using Artocarpus hirsutus plant
leaf extract and their efficacy in promoting growth in Vigna radiata (green gram)
plants was investigated. Characterization of the synthesized nanoparticles revealed
their morphological and stability-related parameters. Transmission electron microscopy
(TEM) measurements indicated a size range of 70 nm for the potassium nanoparticles,
while Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis reported a size of 400 nm. The
elemental analysis using energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) confirmed the presence of
potassium (K) in the synthesized nanomaterial, with approximately 40% potassium
content.
In laboratory experiments, five different concentrations of nano potassium (ranging
from 100 μg/mL to 1000 μg/mL) were tested alongside a blank control (with no external
potassium supplement) for seed germination and plant growth activity. The results
demonstrated that nano potassium-treated plants exhibited enhanced growth and yield
compared to the control group. Additionally, plants sprayed with nano potassium
showed efficient utilization of exchangeable potassium from the soil, leading to
minimal potassium loss through leaching. The green synthesised KNPs show effective
anti-oxidant activity. Overall, this study presents a promising potassium nano fertilizer
that effectively promotes the growth and yield of Vigna radiata plants without causing
any undesirable harmful effects on the environment.
