A micro-nano formulation of multi-micronutrient- and carbon nanofiber-modified biochar for enhanced plant growth†

Abstract

This study introduces M_CNF/biochar, a novel plant growth stimulant comprising 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 Cicer arietinum (chickpea) plant, with the CNFs acting as a translocator for the micronutrients. The synthesized material is thoroughly characterized for its physicochemical properties using various analytical techniques. The results show that a M_CNF/biochar-dose of 1 g kg⁻¹ soil significantly enhances plant growth, as indicated by an increase in the fresh biomass, root and shoot lengths, and 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 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.