Use of nanofertilizers based on multi-doped carbon dots in optical agriculture: photosynthetic booster, metabolic effects, and biometric evaluation in pitanga crops

This study investigated the use of nitrogen-, boron-, and silicon-doped carbon dots (BNSi-CD) as a sustainable alternative to conventional fertilizers for red pitanga (Eugenia uniflora). Brazil’s dependence on imported fertilizers highlights the need for innovative agricultural solutions, and carbon dots have emerged as promising nanomaterials to enhance plant growth. BNSi-CD were synthesized and characterized using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques, confirming successful doping and a quantum yield of 30.30%. Plants were treated for 12 weeks, and their growth, photosynthetic pigments, volatile compounds, and cellular integrity were evaluated. The treatment significantly increased chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoid contents, while promoting higher curzerene production and altering the volatile profile. Biometric analyses showed increases in leaf number, leaf area, and root length compared to untreated plants. Qualitative observations also indicated stronger plant tissues, improved nutrient uptake, and greater resistance to predation by Eugeniamyia dispar, demonstrating the potential of BNSi-CD to improve crop performance.