Stimuli-responsive halloysite colloidosomes for active delivery of antiviral agents in plant protection

This study introduces a novel root protection method against Tobamovirus, using thermally responsive water-in-oil colloidosomes stabilized by halloysite nanotubes (HNTs). These colloidosomes are formed in situ through a cost-effective process using HNTs, canola oil, water, and two trietoxysilanes: (3-aminopropyl)trietoxysilanes (APTES) and Dodecyltriethoxysilane (DTES). The combination of hydrophilic APTES and hydrophobic DTES allows precise control over emulsion type and enables the formation of stable colloidosomes. A key feature of this system is the solar-triggered release of chlorinated trisodium phosphate (Cl-TSP), an antiviral agent that disinfects the root area and inactivates viral particles. The amount and timing of Cl-TSP release were measured, demonstrating controlled and localized delivery. The formulation provided high protection in tomato plants, while remaining biofriendly and environmentally safe. This work offers a smart-release platform for effective and sustainable crop protection.