A Micro-Nano Formulation of Multi-Micronutrients- and Carbon Nanofiber-Modified Biochar for Enhanced Plant Growth

Abstract

This study introduces M_CNF/biochar, a novel plant growth stimulant comprising the bamboo-derived biochar, boron (B), molybdenum (Mo)-, and copper (Cu)-carbon nanofibers (CNF). The prepared micro-nano formulation is successfully used to deliver the B-Mo-Cu multi micronutrients to the Cicer arietinum (chickpea) plant, with the CNF acting as a translocator for the micronutrients. The synthesized material is thoroughly characterized for its physicochemical property using various analytical techniques. The results show that a M_CNF/biochar-dose of 1 g kg⁻¹ soil significantly enhances plant growth, indicated by an increase in the fresh biomass, root and shoot lengths, and the protein and chlorophyll contents. Furthermore, the soil's water-holding capacity increases by more than 90% with the mixing of M_CNF/biochar. The results also reveal that the total nitrogen content of the soil amended with M_CNF/biochar increases more than 4 times, post-30 days of the plant growth, indicating an improvement in the nitrogen fixation capacity of the rhizosphere. This study has successfully presented the bamboo-derived biochar modified with micronutrients for sustainable agriculture.