Researchers at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali have developed a novel biodegradable nanocoating for fertilizers that can increase nutrient use efficiency by enabling slow release. 

• This technology could reduce the amount of fertilizer required while sustaining high crop yields, offering environmental and economic benefits.

Key Features and Composition

• Nanocoating Material: The coating is made from nanoclay-reinforced binary carbohydrates, specifically chitosan and lignin, combined with an anionic clay that creates stable bonds.
• It has hydrophobic properties which allow fertilisers to be released slowly, minimising rapid dissolution and nutrient loss to soil and water.

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Material Sustainability and Biocompatibility

• The nanomaterials used are low-cost, nature-derived materials such as nano-clay, chitosan, and starch.
• Designed to be biodegradable and mechanically stable, the coating supports sustainable agricultural practices by reducing waste and enhancing soil health.

Application Process

• A rotary drum system is employed to uniformly coat fertilizers like muriate of potash (KCl), which provides around 80% of potassium needed in fertilizers.
• This system, equipped with a sand air gun, achieves consistent coating that withstands transportation and handling.

Advantages and Benefits

• Improved Nutrient Use Efficiency: The slow-release mechanism aligns nutrient availability with crop needs, enhancing efficiency and reducing the total amount of fertilizer required.
  • This technology reduces the recommended fertilizer dose for crops such as rice and wheat, maintaining or potentially increasing yields.
• Environmental and Economic Impact: By limiting fertilizer run-off and interaction with surrounding soil and water, this innovation mitigates environmental risks associated with conventional fertilizers.
  • It also holds the potential to improve farmers’ socio-economic conditions by decreasing fertilizer costs and increasing agricultural output, which could contribute positively to the national economy.

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Potential for Broader Applications

• The 3D nanostructure of these polymers has applications beyond agriculture due to its biodegradability, biocompatibility, and thermos-responsive properties.
• Future applications might involve other fields where controlled release and environmental sustainability are desired.