Nanobiochar coated sustained release nitrogen fertilizer for improved efficiency
A nanobiochar-based sustained-release nitrogen fertilizer designed to enhance nitrogen use efficiency by reducing leaching and volatilization, and promoting beneficial soil interactions. Ideal for agricultural applications to increase crop yield and quality.
Overview
Nitrogen is essential for crop growth, yet inefficiencies in its use lead to environmental and economic challenges. This innovative solution involves a nanobiochar-based sustained-release nitrogen fertilizer that enhances nitrogen use efficiency. By incorporating nanobiochar and biopolymers with urea, this fertilizer reduces nitrogen leaching and volatilization, fostering beneficial soil-plant-microbe interactions. The controlled nutrient release synchronizes with crop demand, improving yield and reducing environmental impact.
Technical specifications
- Nanobiochar properties: High surface area, diverse organic functional groups, and porous structure.
- Coating materials: Biopolymers enhance surface activity and control nutrient release.
- Formulation: Urea is intercalated into nanobiochar and coated with biopolymers.
- Validation: Includes N15-labelling for efficiency studies, physical and chemical characterizations, incubation, and mesocosm trials.
- Application: Particularly suited for nitrogen-intensive crops, enhancing nitrogen uptake and efficiency.
Technology readiness level
This technology is at TRL 5, indicating it has been validated in relevant environments and is ready for further trials and field experiments to scale its application in agricultural settings.
About Tamil Nadu Agricultural University
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University is a comprehensive state agricultural university headquartered in Coimbatore, combining education, research, and statewide extension at scale. Co-located experimental farms, commodity research stations, and pilot processing facilities provide industry with sites for field trials, prototyping, and product validation. An extensive extension network connects faculty with growers and supply chains, while proximity to Tamil Nadu’s agri‑machinery, textiles, and food‑processing base supports collaboration and talent pipelines. Research is supported by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, the Government of Tamil Nadu, and competitive national programs such as DST and DBT. A dedicated technology transfer office and agribusiness incubation services facilitate IP, licensing, startup formation, and contract research.
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