Nano‐pesticide delivery system based on UiO‐66 with pH sensitivity for precise control of Spodoptera frugiperda

Abstract BACKGROUND Metal–organic frameworks have the advantages of easy synthesis, high loading capacity and good biocompatibility, making them essential materials for constructing pesticide nano‐delivery systems. In this study, a pH‐responsive nano‐controlled‐release formulation Chl@UiO‐66 was prepared using UiO‐66 as the nano‐scale carrier for adsorbing chlorantraniliprole (Chl). RESULTS The appearance, pesticide loading, release behaviour, insecticidal activity, long‐term control efficacy and safety of Chl@UiO‐66 for non‐target organisms were extensively evaluated. The results showed that the prepared Chl@UiO‐66 was a regular octahedron with a uniform particle size of 230 nm and pesticide loading of 15.62%. The release of pesticides under alkaline conditions was superior to that under acidic and neutral conditions, which showed pH‐responsive performance. Chl@UiO‐66 had an excellent ability to protect pesticides from ultraviolet degradation. Compared with chlorantraniliprole suspension concentrate, Chl@UiO‐66 had a better control effect against Spodoptera frugiperda and long‐term control efficacy. The prepared nano‐controlled‐release formulation had low toxicity to zebrafish, earthworms and human BEAS‐2B cells. CONCLUSION Chl@UiO‐66 is a new pesticide formulation with high efficacy and low toxicity that provides a smart controlled‐release solution. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.