Argentine startup Unibaio unveils nanotechnology powder

Date:11-11-2024

Argentine startup Unibaio has announced the development of a nanotechnology powder designed for use in agrochemical application tanks. 

When combined with other inputs, the product enhances active ingredients and improves plant absorption.

The launch was presented during FARO (Agroindustrial Forum in Rosario), organized by AgroActiva and covered by AgroPages. Matias Figliozzi, co-founder and CEO of Unibaio, stated that his innovation reduces agrochemical costs.

"We have developed nanotechnology for agriculture to help maximize agrochemical value and enable producers to use fewer inputs," he stated during the event. According to Unibaio's CEO, the powder amplified input results and promoted better yields through increased efficiency.

The startup has been testing its solution for two years with partners, including INTA (National Institute of Agricultural Technology). Various field experiments were conducted across different crops and weed species. "On average, when combined with glyphosate, the most widely used herbicide, you can reduce the dose by 40% while maintaining the same weed control," Figliozzi said.

Tests have also yielded positive results with other agrochemical classes, such as fungicides. According to Unibaio's CEO, fungicides are heavily used in potato cultivation in Argentina. When this nanotechnology powder is applied weekly, some of these applications can be skipped while maintaining the same fungal control.

The Argentine startup's researchers also ensured that this powder can be combined with insecticides and even fertilizers. This is possible because its mechanism of action is highly universal: It activates plant receptors for a polymer found on the surface of fungi and insects. 

"When plants detect the attack, a defense system is activated, and they begin to absorb," Figliozzi emphasized.

He explained that his researchers discovered that this polymer, when modified at the nanoscale, increased this plant reaction and enhanced the absorption of the applied agrochemical. 

"We disguise the herbicide and kill weeds faster. Or we can disguise the nutrient and make the plant assimilate it better and grow to its maximum potential. It's quite versatile," he highlighted.

Unibaio reported working with agrochemical companies to include this powder in their formulations. According to the startup's CEO, they are already working with the world's four largest agrochemical companies. "We are working to reformulate, create a new label with much lower doses and greater efficiency," he revealed to AgroPages.

The executive disclosed that the powder's commercial release will occur during the spring/summer season in the United States when apples are being produced. The Argentine market launch will initially target potatoes and apples, with planned expansion to soybeans and other crops.

According to him, the research originated at Argentina's Conicet (National Council for Scientific and Technical Research). They are currently funded by private capital from SF500 and Indie Bio, the largest biotechnology accelerator in the United States.

(Editing by Leonardo Gottems, reporter for AgroPages)