Intelligent biomimetic interfacial design of modified pectin-based pickering emulsions for pH/enzyme dual-responsive on-demand release of abamectin and efficient targeted control of the Asian corn borer

The Asian corn borer (Ostrinia furnacalis Guenée) is a major pest threatening maize production; however, the practical application of abamectin (AVM) is limited by poor environmental stability, insufficient foliar retention, and uncontrolled release behavior. Herein, a bioinspired Pickering emulsion delivery system (ACH_X) was constructed using modified pectin and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) for efficient AVM delivery. Inspired by natural biological interfaces, ACH_X was designed to reproduce functional characteristics including protective capability, foliar adhesion, and stimulus-responsive activation rather than specific biological structures. By regulating pectin methyl esterification, the interfacial assembly behavior was precisely controlled, enabling enhanced leaf deposition and pH/pectinase dual-responsive release. The particle-stabilized interface improved AVM environmental stability, with thermal degradation rates maintained below 20% and approximately 60% active ingredient retention after ultraviolet irradiation. Meanwhile, ACH_X exhibited enhanced droplet spreading and retention on hydrophobic leaf surfaces, with stable spreading diameters of 1.78–1.83 mm and a rebound height reduction of approximately 0.15 mm compared with free AVM. Under simulated alkaline and pectinase-rich pest midgut conditions, ACH_X achieved over 95% cumulative AVM release while maintaining limited release under non-target conditions. Benefiting from adaptive deposition and target-responsive release, ACH_X achieved a 24 h mortality of 96.66% against Ostrinia furnacalis Guenée, together with improved field control performance and favorable environmental compatibility. This study provides a functional biomimetic interfacial engineering strategy for developing intelligent and sustainable nano-pesticide delivery systems.