Carbon nitride nano biochar imparts concentration dependent impact on finger millet growth

¹ Crop Nano Biology and Molecular Stress Physiology Lab, Amity Institute of Organic Agriculture, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Sector-125, Noida - 201313
² Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Sector-125, Noida - 201313
³ Functional Polymer Material Lab, Department of Chemistry, Harcourt Butler Technical University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208002, India

^* Corresponding author: nidhikandhol29@gmail.com dktripathiau@gmail.com

Abstract

Biochar, a sustainable green technology product, is essential for promoting plant development and growth. Nano biochar emerges as a promising solution for environmental sustainability. Despite its potential, the intricate dynamics between plants and nano-biochar, particularly in finger millet (Eleusine coracana), remain largely unexplored, necessitating a deeper understanding of their interaction. This study investigates the effects of carbon nitride (C₃N₄) nano-biochar, derived from melamine, on finger millet. A screening setup was employed with varied concentrations of C₃N₄: 0 µM (control), 500 µM, 1000 µM, 1500 µM, and 2000 µM. Morphological parameters of plants includes root-shoot length, fresh and dry weights, were analysed to determine the optimal dosage. Results reveal that the most effective concentration of C₃N₄ for enhancing finger millet growth was found to be 1000 µM. Beyond this threshold, higher doses proved to be toxic, impeding plant growth and development. This research sheds light on the unexplored relationship between nano-biochar and plant physiology, offering insights crucial for sustainable agricultural practices.