Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were homogeneously dispersed in a pure polyurethane resin by grinding in a planetary ball mill. The structure and surface morphology of the MWCNTs and MWCNT/polyurethane composites were studied by filed emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) methods. The electrical conductivity at room temperature and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness (SE) of the composite films with different MWCNT loadings were investigated and the measurement of EMI SE was carried out in a frequency range of 8–12 GHz (X-band). The experimental results show that with a low MWCNT concentration the composite films could achieve a high conductivity and their EMI SE has a strong dependence on MWCNT content. For the composite films with 22 wt% of MWCNTs, the EMI SE attained an average value of 20 dB, so that the shielding effect reduced the penetrating power to 1%.

Zero-valent metal nanoparticles (Cu, Fe and Co) were prepared by the reactive method from their oxide with hydrogen. The energy-rich solutions of metal nanoparticles were used for treatment Maize seeds prior to sowing. The treatment significantly improved the germination rate and early growth. Furthermore, both SOD and APX enzyme activity in leaves were improved, and enhanced the metabolism of superoxide, leading to increased drought resistance. The method was applied to the field over three seasons and greatly improved the harvest. In particular, the implementation of Cu particles at 4 mg/kg increased the productivity of the two Maize species more than 20%.

Background: Nano-particles of metals can be routinely synthesized. The cereal seeds treatment with the particles can improve early growth and crop production. Moreover, the treatment is robust and economical. Methods: Metal (Fe⁰, Cu⁰, Co⁰), zinc oxide (ZnO) and chitosan-stabilized silver nano-particles were synthesized and applied to cereal seeds. The germination rate, early plant development and inhibition effects on pathogenic fungi were quantified. Results: It was found that all nano-particles had a positive effect on the development of healthy cereal seedlings. In particular, the length of the above-ground part of the seedlings was increased by 8–22%. The highest inhibition effect was observed on Helminthosporium teres with the application of Co⁰ and chitosan-Ag. Pre-sowing treatment with metal nano-particles reduced the number of infected grains by two times for wheat and 3.6 times for barley. The application also increases the chlorophylls and carotenoids in both uninfected and infected seedlings. Conclusions: The results demonstrated a robust application of nano-particles in improving cereal production. Graphical