Profiling the fate of agrochemicals and root-fauna interactions in soil using X-ray Imaging

Many of the world’s major crops require the application of agrochemicals to achieve the required yields. In the face of the uncertainty linked to environmental change and rapid population growth, the efficacy of agrochemical behaviour in soils will be of increased importance. The design and formulation of such active agents for delivery to the soil is a persistent problem for the global crop protection industry. Soils vary widely in structure and composition and few techniques allow non-destructive sampling or imaging to track location of additive chemicals, particularly in the context of the plant root system. An enhanced precision concerning the application of these agents during sowing or planting would help avoid at least some spray applications later in the season and minimise the risk of off-target contamination. In addition optimised formulations or modification to soil physico-chemical properties and formulations could allow for more efficient dose rates which would further minimise environmental impacts such as ground water contamination.
Previous work has shown that movement of active agents in soil is significantly impacted on by the soil porous architecture, the chronic effects of root growth and movement of soil dwelling invertebrates, such as root knot nematodes or the corn root worm (diabrotica virgifera). The ability to directly image both the behaviour and effectiveness of cidal compounds against soil pests would be a major step forward. Micro-scale X-ray Computed Tomography (µCT) has been demonstrated as an effective tool to image undisturbed root-soil interactions rapidly, at high resolutions and in 3-D. Building on previous research conducted at the University of Nottingham’s new Hounsfield Facility (nottingham.ac.uk/microct), we anticipate two new research projects (one focused on chemical formulations and one on soil pests) that will seek to gain an increased understanding of these phenomena and their associated interactions through the application of X-ray imaging including 3-D visualisation and analysis. In addition, the research programme will be supported by the project sponsors, Syngenta, who will provide support expertise in modelling and agronomic biology.
Full training will be provided for the PhD researchers in order for them to gain key skills across a wide range of interdisciplinary areas to be employed in this project including in root biology, plant-soil interactions, soil science, CT imaging and modelling. The research undertaken by the students will be novel and will have strategic importance for a significant global challenge.