Effect of Nano-ZnO Particle Suspension on Growth of Mung (Vigna radiata) and Gram (Cicer arietinum) Seedlings Using Plant Agar Method

Abstract

The present study demonstrates an effect of nano-ZnO particles on the growth of plant seedlings of mung (Vigna radiate) and gram (Cicer arietinum). The study was carried out in plant agar media to prevent precipitation of water-insoluble nanoparticles in the test units. Various concentrations of nano-ZnO particles in suspension form were introduced to the agar media, and their effect on the root and shoot growth of the seedlings was examined. The main experimental approach, using correlative light and scanning electron microscopy provided evidence of adsorption of nanoparticles on the root surface. Absorption of nanoparticles by seedlings root was also detected by inductive coupled plasma/atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES). It was found that at certain optimum concentration, the seedlings displayed good growth over control, and beyond that, retardation in growth was observed.