Plant nanobionics: nanotechnology for augmentation of photosynthesis efficiency

Photosynthesis is the base of the ecosystem of our planet. In the fact of the low efficiency of photosynthesis, researchers tried many approaches to augment plant photosynthesis. In this chapter, we introduced a plant nanobionic approach to augment plant photosynthesis. Here, we described briefly plant photosynthesis and also the factors affecting the efficiency of plant photosynthesis. Then, we summarized the nanomaterials used for improving plant photosynthesis and discussed the possible reasons behind the controversial results regarding the biological role of nanomaterials on plant photosynthesis. Further, the mechanisms underlying nano-improved plant photosynthesis are discussed. Also, possible approaches such as using nanomaterials to convert ultraviolet and near infrared light to visible light and to capture more electrons to augment plant photosynthesis are highlighted. Overall, this chapter depicted the possible important role of nanomaterials in augmenting plant photosynthesis.