Agro-Industrial Byproducts as Biobased Carriers: A Sustainable Platform for Essential Oil Delivery in Agriculture

Abstract

Essential oils are a promising eco-friendly alternative to synthetic agrochemicals (e.g., synthetic pesticides and fungicides) in agricultural crops, as they help reduce environmental toxicity and pest resistance. However, their high volatility, environmental instability, and poor water solubility limit their direct application in the field. This study developed an innovative and effective encapsulation system using a modified starch matrix combined with novel materials of high added value, such as the mesocarp of pequi, banana peel, and lignin. Essential oils from Salvia rosmarinus Spenn., Lippia alba, and Citrus sinensis were encapsulated, achieving an encapsulation efficiency exceeding 85%. Through detailed bioassays on tomato plants, we demonstrated that the encapsulated formulations not only exhibited reduced phytotoxicity and improved persistence compared to free oils but also induced root growth, highlighting their potential as biostimulants. The release kinetics of the encapsulated oils were controlled by modulating formulation parameters, establishing a new basis for developing more precise, sustainable, and effective delivery systems in agriculture, repurposing agro-industrial waste into advanced delivery systems.