Mechanisms of Solute and Nano-Particle Adhesion and Uptake in Crop Leaves

Using Biological Imaging Techniques to Understand and Develop Sustainable Nano-Fertilizers

PhD defence by Max Frank

Assessment Committee

• Professor Alexander Schulz, PLEN, University of Copenhagen (Chairperson)
• Privatdozent, Dr. rer. nat Jürgen Burkhardt, University of Bonn
• Research Scientist Ran Erel, The Volcani Center, Gilat, Israel

Supervisors

• Professor Søren Husted
• Daniel Olof Persson

Department

Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences

Place

Building: Landbrughøjskolen in Frederiksberg, Room: A1.01.01, Bülowsvej 17, 2871 Frederiksberg

Email address to gain access to the thesis: max.frank.mfr@gmail.com.
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Short description of the thesis

Fertilizers are essential for food production, but conventional nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers can be inefficient, costly, and harmful to the environment. Foliar nano fertilization, i.e. applying nutrients to leaves in nanoparticle form, could offer a more targeted and sustainable alternative. This PhD research investigates how water, nutrient ions, and nanoparticles interact with leaf surfaces and enter plants, combining advanced imaging techniques with plant physiology. The work also critically examines claims surrounding commercial nano fertilizers and highlights gaps between marketing promises and scientific evidence. By uncovering how foliar fertilizers actually function, the research provides a foundation for developing more effective and sustainable nutrient delivery systems.