Nanofertilizers: A review on synthesis and impact of their use on crop yield and environment

The largest and oldest agricultural industry at present is facing multifold problems. There are expectations of the ever-increasing food and grains stipulate due to the rising universal populace and at the same time, resources are depleting. This triggered the omnipresent utilization of synthetic fertilizers increasing the cost involved in farming. The use of low-quality less efficient synthetic fertilizers has only made things difficult leading to negative impacts. Nanotechnology has shown capabilities to uphold sustainable agriculture by tailor fertilizer production working wonders as a boon. Nanofertilizers are used to improve plant nutrition, increase nutrient efficiency, and also improve soil fertility. The genetic, physiological, and morphological changes exhibit an effect on soil microbiological symbiosis, physicochemical properties. This article critically reviews the preparation, properties, and applications including future routes identified to promote the research based nano-enabled smart and clear-cut use of bio-nanofertilizers. The use of nanoscale active ingredients, promising features like the controlled release, and targeted delivery of nanofertilizers enhancement in the crop yield, crop quality, and various environmental effects involved also highlighted. [Display omitted] •Nanotechnology promises and promotes sustainable agriculture.•Current status and future perspectives on the use and opportunities of nanofertilizers in enabled agricultural products.•Different considerations of nanofertilizers in agriculture are illustrated.•Exhaustive evaluation of impacts on soil, crop and environment.•Probable advantages of Nanofertilizers over bio-fertilizers are discussed.