Novel Nano-Pesticides for Animal Healthcare (2016–2019)
Abstract:
This project will use state of the art nanotechnology to develop a new generation nano-pesticide with improved
safety and performance. Ticks and buffalo fly cause over $400 million/year in economic losses to the Australian
livestock industry and are currently treated with highly toxic synthetic pesticides. Spinosad, a naturally derived
pesticide with low environmental impact and low toxicity will be loaded into silica hollow spheres which will
improve adhesion to skin/hair and protect against UV degradation. The nano-spinosad pesticide is expected to
have enhanced efficacy and effective duration in field conditions compared to conventional pesticides, significantly
reducing the cost of pest control.