By Leonardo Gottems, reporter for AgroPages
The Argentinean Nanotechnology Foundation (FAN), through the Argentine Embassy in Paraguay, is working along with five companies in the sector to invest in agrochemicals in that country. According to FAN, the goal is to complement and further expand nanotechnology and its incorporation in the development of industries.
According to Laura Toledo, Head of Innovation and Promotion of the FAN, the partnership can lead to the emergence of new products and services of the genre. The delegation was composed of companies that offered a range of products in the areas of agrochemicals, environment, health and personal care, textiles, infrastructure and roads, among others.
"The Foundation promotes the development of nanotechnology and its incorporation into the industry to add value and make companies more competitive. It is a technology that manipulates matter on a [very diminished] scale, or divides a millimeter into a million equal parts, preserving the original properties to generate new products or services," he explained.
In this scenario, the companies participating in the project intend to develop tests or products with a unique differential, compared to other products obtained through the use of nanotechnology. At least two of the companies already have a presence in the local market, and what they are looking for now is to strengthen trade ties for the benefit of countries and societies.
One of the companies that integrates the project is Red Surcos, the largest manufacturer of pesticides with nanotechnology in Argentina. Agronomist Julio Codas, Commercial Manager of Red Surcos Paraguay S.A, pointed out that the application of nanotechnology to phytosanitary products allows well-known and proven products in agricultural systems, such as 2,4-D, to significantly increase their bioefficacy and bioavailability.
"It makes it possible to use up to 50% less active ingredients per hectare without giving up control. In addition, these products with technology are much more environmentally friendly. At the same time, they have additional benefits such as low odor, low volatility and have high compatibility of tank mixtures with glyphosate and other products present in the market," added Julio Codas.