Advanced herbicide encapsulation for improved crop safety and extended weed control
Makabi Agritech presents an innovative encapsulation technology for herbicides, designed to enhance crop safety and extend weed control. This approach uses biopolymer microparticles for controlled AI release, reducing crop damage and application frequency.
Overview
Makabi Agritech introduces a breakthrough in herbicide formulation through advanced encapsulation techniques that enhance crop safety and extend weed control. By utilizing biopolymer microparticles, this technology provides a controlled release of active ingredients (AIs), ensuring targeted action and minimizing the negative impact on crops. This innovative approach allows the co-formulation of two active components, significantly improving weed management efficacy while reducing the need for frequent applications.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Controlled release: Biopolymer microparticles ensure precise timing and rate of AI release, enhancing selectivity and reducing crop damage.
- Co-formulation capability: Enables stabilization and effective delivery of two bioactive ingredients within a single matrix.
- Environmental protection: Encapsulation shields AIs from degradation, extending their activity in the soil.
- Sustainable materials: Utilizes biodegradable and cost-effective biopolymers suitable for scalable production.
Development stages:
- Material selection and formulation development focusing on ionic gelation techniques.
- Evaluation of encapsulation efficiency, particle size distribution, and release kinetics.
- Greenhouse trials to assess safety, efficacy, and residual performance across soil types.
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory environment and is undergoing further testing to refine its applications and effectiveness.
About Makabi Agritech
Makabi Agritech is a Croatian agritech company that has developed a proprietary 3-in-1 encapsulation technology for sustainable agricultural production. Utilizing green chemistry, the company creates biodegradable, bio-based microcapsules that combine plant protection, nutrient delivery, and the controlled release of bioactive components. This innovation is designed to replace traditional synthetic agrochemicals, with the goal of reducing environmental pollution, mitigating the impacts of climate change, and enhancing the biopotential and nutritional quality of food crops. The technology works by introducing microcapsules into the root zone or applying them to plant parts, where they dissolve to provide essential nutrients and protection precisely when needed. Founded in 2019 following research at the University of Zagreb, the company focuses on advancing sustainable farming practices through science-based innovations.
This technology is significant for the agricultural sector as it offers a scalable, eco-friendly alternative to conventional fertilizers and pesticides, potentially reducing agrochemical usage by up to 30 percent. By improving soil health and promoting the production of functional, safer food for human consumption, Makabi Agritech addresses critical global sustainability goals, including zero hunger and responsible consumption. The company actively engages in research and development collaborations, participates in international innovation challenges, and has received recognition and funding for its contributions to sustainable chemistry. Its solutions have been tested on various crops, including strawberries, tomatoes, and tobacco, in both field and greenhouse environments.
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