Biodegradation and viability of chitosan-based microencapsulated fertilizers

Author(s)

Angelo, Luciana Moretti ^[1] ; Franca, Debora ^{[2, 1]} ; Faez, Roselena ^{[2, 1]}

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Fed Sao Carlos, Lab Polymer Mat & Biosorbents, UFSCar, BR-13600970 Araras, SP - Brazil

^[2] Univ Sao Paulo, USP FZEA, Grad Program Mat Sci & Engn, BR-13635900 Pirassununga, SP - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Carbohydrate Polymers; v. 257, APR 1 2021.
• Web of Science Citations: 1

Abstract

Enhanced efficiency fertilizers (EEF) are an important subject for sustainable materials. It is fundamental for the released nutrient and biodegradation in the soil to have synergy to ensure material harmlessness. Chitosan, montmorillonite, and KNO3 were considered to develop the EEF because of the high biodegradation potential of the final product. We correlated the material biodegradability and release in water and soil to their formulation. We assume the materials are biodegradable since the biodegradation efficiency achieved over 30 %. As the nutrient diffusion and matrix degradation happen concomitantly, we also observed that the clay delays degradation and the KNO3 improved it. Likewise, the storage period can change the biodegradability properties once the material started to degrade. Hereupon, the amount of nutrient delivered will match the amount consumed by the plant, the matrix will degrade and no residue will be left in the soil. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 17/24595-4 - Use of biodegradable biopolymers and nanocellulose for application in programmable fertilizers release
• Grantee: Débora França
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• FAPESP's process: 19/02535-5 - Polymeric structures as host matrices for-release nutrients: environmentally friendly fertilizers
• Grantee: Roselena Faez
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants