Biobinder encapsulation for controlled herbicide release
Cost-effective encapsulation using biobinder derived from crop residue liquefaction to enable controlled herbicide release. The approach uses low-cost materials, tunable glass transition temperature to match release profiles, and laboratory-proven coating methods to improve active ingredient efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
Overview
This solution uses biobinder derived from crop residue liquefaction to encapsulate herbicides for controlled release. The biobinder, developed at South Dakota State University, is positioned as a low-cost alternative to traditional encapsulation materials such as plastics or resins. The goal is to optimize the release of active herbicide ingredients, improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Low cost: Biobinder production is 10 times cheaper than conventional plastics or resins.
- Tunable properties: The glass transition temperature can be adjusted to suit specific release profiles.
- Proven techniques: Laboratory demonstrations have shown the effectiveness of low-cost coating methods.
- Validated potential: The encapsulation concept has been validated in previous slow-release fertilizer projects.
Technology readiness level
The biobinder encapsulation technology is currently at TRL 4, indicating laboratory validation. Further testing and refinement are planned to support broader agricultural application.
About South Dakota State University
South Dakota State University is a comprehensive public land‑grant research university serving a large statewide community. Industry engages through a university‑linked research and technology park that colocates tenant companies with faculty labs and pilot‑scale processing suites for de‑risking and demonstration. A statewide extension network and field sites provide real‑world environments for validation and market feedback, while shared‑use core facilities and tailored workforce pipelines connect talent and tools to corporate R&D. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from USDA and NSF, with additional awards from NIH and DOE, alongside state and industry partnerships. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP and industry agreements, and incubator space at the research park supports startup formation and scale‑up.
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