Gold Nanoparticle-Based Sensing of Pesticides and Fertilizers in Aqueous System: A Review

The extensive use of pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture has led to significant environmental pollution, particularly in aqueous systems. This review provides an inclusive overview of the advancements in the application of gold nanoparticles (GNPs), specifically for the sensing of pesticides and fertilizers on surface water. The novelty of this work lies in its focused analysis of the unique localized surface plasmon resonance properties of GNPs that enable highly sensitive and selective detection of contaminants on surface water. Various synthesis methods and detection mechanisms are discussed, emphasizing the integration of GNP-based sensors with modern analytical techniques to enhance detection limits and response time. The review also highlights the significance of monitoring agricultural chemicals in water systems from an environmental perspective. In addition, this review also reveals the potential of GNPs contribution toward sustainable agricultural practices by providing reliable, rapid, and cost-effective sensing solutions. Future perspectives on the development of GNP-based sensors, including the fundamental challenges in designing GNP sensors, such as incorporation with other materials, miniaturized and portable sensing devices, and field-testing validation are also presented. Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) are promising alternative for detecting pesticides and fertilizers in surface water due to their high surface area and localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) properties. Hence, this review explores GNP synthesis methods (bottom-up and top-down) and detection techniques used such as colorimetric, LSPR, surface-enhanced Raman scattering, electrochemical, chemiluminescence, and fluorescence.image (c) 2024 WILEY-VCH GmbH