Abstract Book V-NanoDay

The application of zeolites in agriculture has attracted growing interest as a means to enhance nutrient use efficiency and reduce the environmental impact associated with conventional fertilization and phytosanitary practices. Thanks to their defined porosity, high cation-exchange capacity and chemical selectivity, zeolites are effective materials for the adsorption, retention and controlled release of ionic species in soil environments. Their strong affinity for nutrient cations and metal ions with antimicrobial activity makes them suitable for multifunctional agricultural applications. This study focuses on the adsorption and controlled release of functionalized metal salts, such as Cu3(PO4)2, Zn(NO3)2 and CuSO4, within microporous zeolites selected on the basis of their framework structure and ion-exchange properties. Zeolitic matrices including Beta, Mordenite and ZSM-5 are comparatively evaluated in terms of metal loading efficiency, ion affinity, retention capacity and release profiles under agronomically relevant conditions. Particular attention is paid to the relationship between pore architecture, crystallographic structure and metal release kinetics. This work focuses on the development of an innovative controlled-release system capable of delivering essential micronutrients (Cu2+, Zn2+, Mn2+, Ni2+) while simultaneously providing protection against fungal pathogens, with specific reference to Plasmopara viticola, the causal agent of grapevine downy mildew. By combining the nutritional and phytochemical effects of selected metal ions with the reservoir function of zeolites, the proposed hybrid materials aim to extend the availability of active species, reduce application frequency and limit environmental dispersion. This approach represents a sustainable alternative to conventional copper-based treatments and offers new perspectives for low- impact plant protection and precision agriculture.