Biopolymer seed coatings for enhanced fungal protection in soybeans

Overview

Nat4Bio introduces a groundbreaking biopolymer-based seed coating technology designed to protect soybean seeds from soilborne fungal infections. By integrating our proprietary biopolymer blend with the fungicide fludioxonil, we provide a protective film that enhances fungicidal efficacy and seedling protection. This coating not only offers physical and UV protection but also optimizes moisture exchange and the release of active ingredients, ensuring enhanced availability during critical germination phases.

Technical specifications

Our biopolymer coatings form a thin, flexible film on the seed surface, ensuring uniform adhesion of fungicides and significantly reducing dust-off. This innovative approach improves dose homogeneity and enhances the protective efficacy of fludioxonil. The coating’s ability to modulate moisture and active ingredient release ensures that fungicides are available precisely when and where early infections occur. Field trials in Argentina have demonstrated improved disease control against charcoal rot and better stand establishment and early plant vigor in soybeans.

Technology readiness level

Our technology is currently at Technology Readiness Level 5, having shown promising results in laboratory and field trials. Future R&D will focus on further validating the performance of NATbase biopolymer coatings combined with natamycin and strain AS8, as well as enhancing fludioxonil efficacy across different dose levels in various testing phases.