Nano-Titanium-Chitosan Beads as a Biofungicidal Strategy against Anthracnose Stalk Rot in Maize

This study presents a sustainable approach to managing maize anthracnose stalk rot caused by <i>Colletotrichum graminicola</i> using alginate beads loaded with titanium nanoparticles (TiNPs) and chitosan nanoparticles (ChNPs). Encapsulation altered nanoparticle properties, as confirmed by UV-vis absorption at 210-270 nm, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) cross-linking signals. ζ-Potential and particle size distribution measurements indicated aggregation tendency of TiNPs, uniform dispersion of ChNPs, and heterogeneous surface charge-size in composite beads. Nanoparticle beads were spherical (4.5-5.2 nm), while composite were ellipsoidal (4.76 nm). ChNPs beads exhibited superior hydration, mass stability, and 81% antifungal activity, whereas composite beads showed 64% inhibition. Complete disease control was achieved in maize plants treated with beads of either ChNPs or TiNPs + ChNPs, accompanied by significant improvement in the plant performance attributes, both outperforming chemical fungicides. This research highlights nanoparticle-based alginate beads as a scalable, eco-friendly biofungicidal solution for agriculture.