Flexible MXene-based nanopatch with sandwich-like structure for NIR-driven pesticide release and enhanced pest control

Foliar off-target loss and premature exposure are the two major challenges in traditional pesticide applications. The development of intelligent systems for precise pesticide delivery represents a significant advancement in enhancing pesticide efficiency while minimizing environmental pollution. Here, a sandwich-structured MXene-based nano-platform with near-infrared (NIR) responsiveness (EMPP/CD@PEG) was successfully constructed. The fabrication process involved anchoring polydopamine-functionalized Prussian blue (PB@PDA) onto MXene nanosheets, loading emamectin benzoate (EB), and subsequently modifying the nanosheets with a temperature-sensitive cyclodextrin@polyethylene glycol (CD@PEG) hydrogel. Upon NIR irradiation, PB@PDA-modified MXene functioned as a photothermal agent, achieving a photothermal conversion efficiency of 47.5 %. This effect triggered the breakdown of the CD@PEG gel network, resulting in and the release of EB. The enhanced photothermal performance of PB@PDA-modified MXene was primarily attributed to the excellent light absorption properties of MXene. Additionally, the deposition of PB@PDA nanoparticles on the MXene surface increased its roughness, leading to multiple scattering and refraction of incident light, further improving photothermal efficiency. More importantly, the LC 50 values of EMPP/CD@PEG against Spodoptera frugiperda , Corn borer , and Mythimna separata were 0.0806 mg/L, 0.1250 mg/L, and 0.1044 mg/L, respectively, demonstrating higher insecticidal activity compared to commercial suspension concentrates. Moreover, EMPP/CD@PEG exhibited superior foliar affinity, photostability, and safety for maize plants and HK-2 cells, attributed to the encapsulation and stabilization effects of the nanocarriers. As a result, this work offers valuable insights into the development of sustainable and eco-friendly pesticide nano-formulations in agriculture production.