Modified Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) for termites’ control

This experimental study examines the characterization and efficacy of modified Zinc Oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), enhanced using a low-level continuous-mode laser at a wavelength of 405 nm, for the control of worker and soldier castes of the termite species Macrotermes malaccensis (Holmgren). The ZnO NP samples were divided into three treatment groups: un-irradiated, 15-min irradiated, and 30-min irradiated. Laser irradiation was conducted using a 405 nm diode laser (THS-1220, China) at a power output of 500 mW, with a beam spot size of 4.0 mm and a fixed distance of 10 cm from the sample surface. Termites were exposed to serial dilutions of the ZnO NP treatments. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference in mortality rates among the treatment groups (F(6,36) = 4.75, 0.05). Notably, the 30-min irradiated ZnO NPs at a concentration of 1 mg/mL resulted in 100% mortality within 36 h. While both irradiated treatments demonstrated significantly higher efficacy than the control, there was no significant difference in mortality rates between the 15- and 30-min irradiated groups. These findings suggest that laser modified ZnO nanoparticles, when used at the appropriate wavelength and power, offer a promising and effective approach for termite control.

Notably, the 30-min irradiated ZnO NPs at a concentration of 1 mg/mL resulted in 100% mortality within 36 h. While both irradiated treatments demonstrated significantly higher efficacy than the control, there was no significant difference in mortality rates between the 15- and 30-min irradiated groups. These findings suggest that laser modified ZnO nanoparticles, when used at the appropriate wavelength and power, offer a promising and effective approach for termite control.