Preparation and characterization of emamectin benzoate nanocapsules based on the dual role of polydopamine

BACKGROUND: Developing pesticide‐controlled release formulations with foliage adhesion has become the focus of current research in the field of crop protection. In this study, an excellent adhesive nanocapsule loaded with emamectin benzoate (Eb@PDA) was prepared via emulsion interfacial polymerization based on the self‐polymerization ability and adhesion properties of polydopamine (PDA). RESULTS: The physicochemical properties of the Eb@PDA were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, particle size statistics, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction. The Eb@PDA presented a regular spherical shape, with an average particle size of 163.8 nm. Compared with conventional formulations, it had higher pesticide‐loading content (34%) and excellent adhesion onto corn leaf. In addition, Eb@PDA showed sustained‐release characteristics, facilitating the release of Eb at low pH and high temperature. Eb@PDA could effectively protect Eb against photodegradation and had a longer effective period for controlling Spodoptera frugiperda and Spodoptera exigua. Furthermore, acute toxicity tests showed that the 50% lethal concentration (LC₅₀) was 80.91 and 57.91 mg kg⁻¹ at 7 and 14 days, respectively, indicating a lower toxicity of the Eb@PDA to earthworms. The cells (L02) treated with Eb@PDA showed a higher cell viability but a lower apoptosis rate (only 5.75%), demonstrating the lower cytotoxicity of the Eb@PDA. CONCLUSION: The self‐prepared Eb@PDA could be used as a formulation with the advantages of slow release, UV shielding, strong leaf adhesion, superior insecticidal properties, sustained effectiveness and biosafety. It will also facilitate the development of an efficient and safe pesticide delivery system. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.