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.

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The present experimental investigation demonstrates the effect of nano-ZnO, nanoFeO and nano-ZnCuFe-oxide particles on the growth of mung (Vigna radiata) seedling. The study was carried out by spraying optimum concentrations of nanoparticles in suspension form on hydroponically grown test units and examining the effect on the shoot growth of seedlings. Based on biomass assay, it was found that the seedlings displayed good growth over control, demonstrating a positive effect of the nanoparticle treatment. The best performance was observed for nano-ZnCuFe-Oxide followed by nano-FeO and nano-ZnO. Absorption of nanoparticles by plant leaves was also detected by inductive coupled plasma/atomic emission spectroscopy.

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A modification in the alkyd based waterborne coatings was studied with the addition of 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.3% nano-Al 2 O 3 . Corrosion performance of the nano-composite coatings were evaluated by applying these nanocomposites on mild steel substrate and exposing them to salt spray, humidity, and accelerated weathering. Mechanical properties were studied by subjecting the coating to scratch and abrasion test. The results showed that, with an increase in the concentration of nano-Al 2 O 3 there was an improvement in the corrosion resistance, UV resistance, and mechanical properties of the coatings indicating the positive effect of addition of nano-Al 2 O 3 particles in the coatings. Further, the transparency of the coating was not altered, maintaining the optical clarity of the coating.