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journal article·2025-11Open access

SafeWax: A Bio‐Inspired Multifunctional Coating for Sustainable Crop Protection

Iryna Polishchuk, Elena Prudnikov, Hanan Abu‐Hamad, Niv Ben‐Arie, Johanna Sklar, Matthias Kellermeier, Coralie Schneider, Markus Rueckel, Franziska Tauber, Mireia A. Ibanez Revert, Alice Brannetti, Ilaria Filippetti, Simona Fermani, Eric Chantelot, Vincent Dreze, Ester Segal, Elena Baraldi, Giuseppe Falini, Claudio Ratti, Boaz Pokroy

Small· Volume 21· Issue 46
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Abstract

Abstract Modern agriculture faces numerous challenges, including the rise of fungal diseases and the effects of climate change. Traditional reliance on chemical pesticides poses environmental hazards, such as the emergence of resistant fungal strains. SafeWax, a biodegradable and multifunctional coating, provides a sustainable alternative by emulating natural plant wax cuticles. Its superhydrophobic surface prevents fungal adhesion and colonization, while also protecting crops from ultraviolet (UV) radiation and low humidity. Additionally, the self‐cleaning properties of SafeWax coatings enhance water collection, promoting robust plant growth and productivity. Initial studies demonstrate the ability of SafeWax to reduce fungal infections and boost the resilience of crops like grapevines and tomatoes. This paper aims to introduce the SafeWax technology, explain its mechanisms, present preliminary results from lab and greenhouse trials, and discuss its potential to lower the demand for conventional pesticides in alignment with the European Green Deal, which targets a 50% reduction in pesticide use by 2030.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Plant Surface Properties and Treatments · Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control · Postharvest Quality and Shelf Life Management

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Department of Materials Science and Engineering Technion – Israel Institute of Technology Haifa 320001 Israel

Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Engineering Technion − Israel Institute of Technology Haifa 3200003 Israel

Material Science BASF SE, RGS/B – B007 Carl‐Bosch‐Strasse 38 67056 Ludwigshafen am Rhein Germany

Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences University of Bologna, Università di Bologna viale Fanin, 44 Bologna 40127 Italy

Department of Chemistry “Giacomo Ciamician” Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna via Selmi 2 Bologna I‐40126 Italy

IFV French Wine and Vine Institute Domaine de l'Espiguette Le Grau du Roi 30240 France

Eurofins Agroscience Services Regulatory Spain SL Sorolla Center. Av. Cortes Valencianas 58 Office 904 Valencia E‐46015 Spain

Department of Materials Science and Engineering and the Russell Berrie Nanotechnology Institute Technion – Israel Institute of Technology Haifa 320001 Israel

Funding

HORIZON EUROPE European Innovation Council

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