Effect of nanoscale Fe3O4, TiO2 and carbon particles on cucumber seed germination

The effects of Fe3O4, TiO2 and carbon nanoparticles on the cucumber (Cucumis sativus) seed germination rate, root elongation and germination index were studied. The nanoparticles used ranged in average particle size from 30-50 nm, and their concentration ranged from 0 to 5000 mu g/mL. Inhibitory effects were observed and the reduction in root growth was more obvious than the seed germination percentages. In all cases some perturbations of the normal functions with respect to control in germinating test were observed. The results obtained provide a better understanding of the phytotoxicity of the nanomaterials used in this study, and may help to further understand the interaction of nanoparticles with the environment prior to their use in agriculture.