Dry-Tech’s nano innovations may reshape agriculture, improving plant efficiency, soil health and irrigation through advanced precision delivery technologies.

Nanotechnology is transforming horticulture by enabling the precise delivery of nutrients and active compounds, as Dry-Tech South Africa develops nano-scale solutions under its Atom8™ technology platform. The company’s Research Technical Director Willie Coetzee explains that these systems are designed to improve plant absorption, input efficiency and crop performance without changing active ingredients. The technology supports protected cultivation, soil health, crop nutrition and fruit quality, while advancing future irrigation innovations through targeted molecular delivery.

Nano Delivery Technology Improves Crop Efficiency

Dry-Tech’s Atom8™ Delivery Engine focuses on enhancing spray distribution, canopy penetration and interaction with plants. The formulations are produced below 40 nanometers, allowing plants to absorb particles efficiently. The company believes smaller delivery structures can help growers achieve improved results while using reduced quantities of inputs.

Key developments include:

  • Nano-scale delivery improves nutrient uptake efficiency

  • Atom8™ formulations support precise plant absorption

  • Technology enhances spray coverage across crop surfaces

  • Research advances soil biology and microbial support

  • NanoRain explores improved root-zone water delivery

Expanding Plant and Soil Health Solutions

The company has expanded its research beyond postharvest applications into preharvest crop management. Its programmes focus on nutrient efficiency, early vegetative growth and beneficial soil organisms. Dry-Tech is exploring solutions that support Trichoderma activity, a beneficial fungus linked to disease suppression and healthier soil environments.

Nanotechnology in agriculture is gaining attention as growers seek sustainable methods to optimize resources. Precision farming systems, greenhouse cultivation and hydroponic production can benefit from technologies that improve application accuracy while reducing unnecessary inputs.

This approach reflects a broader shift towards sustainable agriculture, where efficient resource management, biological support and advanced crop technologies are becoming increasingly important. Researchers and growers are exploring ways to combine innovation with environmentally responsible farming practices.

Supporting Fruit Quality and Future Irrigation

Dry-Tech’s Atom8™ XMD system is designed for late-season fruit finishing by supporting uniform colour development while maintaining fruit quality. The programme is applied several weeks before harvest to help improve firmness, peel integrity and overall fruit consistency.

The company is also developing NanoRain, a nano-bubble water technology aimed at improving oxygen and nutrient availability in irrigation systems. By introducing nano-scale gases into water, the solution seeks to enhance root-zone conditions and support microbial activity.

Business Fortune is of the view that nanotechnology-driven horticulture could help growers improve efficiency through precise and sustainable crop management approaches.

 

FAQs

What is Dry-Tech’s Atom8™ technology used for?

Dry-Tech’s Atom8™ technology is a nano-scale delivery system designed to improve the absorption and effectiveness of nutrients and active compounds in plants.

How does nanotechnology improve horticultural practices?

Nanotechnology enables more precise delivery of inputs, helping growers optimise nutrient use, improve plant health and increase application efficiency.

Why are Atom8™ formulations produced below 40 nanometres?

The smaller particle size allows plants to absorb the formulations more efficiently, improving availability and interaction with plant tissues.

Can Dry-Tech’s nano technology be used in greenhouse and hydroponic systems?

Yes, the technology is designed for precision growing environments, including protected cultivation and hydroponic production systems.

What is the purpose of NanoRain technology?

NanoRain is being developed to improve irrigation efficiency by using nano-bubbles to enhance gas delivery, nutrient availability and microbial activity in the root zone.