Application of new nano pesticide Geranium oil loaded-solid lipid nanoparticles for control the black cutworm Agrotis ipsilon (Hub.) (Lepi., Noctuidae)

Abstract

A new delivery system was used to control the black cutworm Agrotis ipsilon (Hub.) (Lepi., Noctuidae) based on incorporation of geranium essential oil into solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) in a controlled-release formulation using ultrasonic solvent emulsification technique. The morphology of geranium oil nanoparticles after loading (GO-SLNs) was characterized and visualized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The abundance and percentage content of major components did not show any significant difference between free and nano-encapsulated oil when analyzed by (GC-MS). The results of geranium essential oil bulk form were compared with that of oil post loading solid nanoparticles and tested in the laboratory and field for their efficiency on larval development, pupal mortality and adult longevity. Laboratory bioassay indicated that (GO-SLNs) was more effective on both larval and pupal development as well as the adult longevity and female fecundity accordingly the percentage of hatchability. Field-laboratory experiments were conducted to show direct and residual effects of the tested oil free and post loading using two concentrations (5.0 and 2.5%), in terms of speed of mortality, toxicity and stability. (GO-SLNs) was more stable under field conditions and gave a high percentage of mortality at the two concentrations used.