Objectives of the Experimentation:
Nano2U aims to develop a “second-generation” nitrogen nanofertilizer based on biologically derived nanocarriers and urea (bNC‑U), integrating the “Safe and Sustainable by Design” (SSbD) principle throughout the entire value chain: design, synthesis, characterization, sample handling, biological testing, and agronomic validation.
The project adopts an integrated approach to (i) performance optimization (controlled nitrogen release and use efficiency), (ii) reduction of environmental losses, and (iii) protection of the health and safety of workers potentially exposed during production, handling, and application, supported by a set of measurable and traceable evidence.
The working strategy foresees a progressive selection (“screening → ranking → Top‑3”) of the most promising formulations, followed by in vitro biological validation and agronomic trials on a model crop with high nitrogen demand.
The project involves three research units: DI4A UniUD (Prof. Luca Marchiol, coordinator), CNR – Institute of Nanotechnology (Dr. Francesca Scalera), and the Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata (Prof. Katia Aquilano). Research activities will be carried out in collaboration with the Department for Technological Innovations and Safety of Plants, Products and Anthropic Settlements – INAIL (Dr. Mara Stefanelli), with the involvement of FCP Cerea (contact: Dr. Giuseppe Ciuffreda).
Activities carried out at Servadei
Specific Objective 3 — Assessment of the nutritional efficiency of the nanofertilizer: comparison of nitrogen release dynamics and root uptake with respect to conventional fertilizers on a model crop.
The activity focuses on comparing nitrogen release dynamics and root uptake between the nanofertilizer and conventional fertilizers on a model crop. Agronomic performance of the selected formulations (Top‑3 or a defined subset) will be validated under semi‑controlled conditions (drainage lysimeters) against conventional fertilization, by measuring nitrogen dynamics, uptake, biomass production, and the leached fraction.
The trial is designed to quantify efficiency indicators (NUpE/NUtE/NUE) and to link crop performance with potential environmental benefits, particularly the reduction of losses due to leaching. The model crop is the forage species Lolium multiflorum (Italian ryegrass), chosen for its high nitrogen demand and its susceptibility to repeated cutting, which makes the system particularly sensitive to nitrogen release and splitting strategies.
Non‑destructive physiological measurements are included, together with a sampling and metadata plan designed to ensure comparability among treatments and across growing seasons.
Funding
INAIL BRIC2025
Website
The development of a project website is not planned. A dedicated project page will be set up within the DI4A website. The Nano2U communication plan includes two active communication events (webinars) and a final event to be held at the INAIL headquarters in Rome.
Contacts