Development Of a Slow-Release Fertilizer to Minimize the Nutrient Loss and Environmental Impacts Of Nitrogenous Fertilizers

Abstract

The agriculture sector of Pakistan accounts 18.9% to the GDP and the growth of this sector depends entirely on the application of urea fertilizer. Around 70% of urea is lost by

volatilization, leaching, and runoff. The problem can be faced by the facilitation of a cost- efficient and biodegradable slow-release fertilizer. In this project, rice husk coated fertilizer is

produced with biodegradable polyurethane as a binder. The pan coating machine was used to coat the urea granules. These coating fertilizer products are thus compliant with the European Union standard of 75% nutrient-release within 28 days of application. Moreover, volatilization of ammonia was diminished by 50%-60% of coated fertilizer with not only the mechanical strength tests for storing but also for transportation. The cost-benefit analysis showed a profit of PKR 18,671 per acre for the farmer and at the same time a 64% reduction in the nitrous oxide emissions into the atmosphere. In conclusion, coated fertilizers with various nutrient output patterns will be made as per the needs of different crops. The application of coated fertilizers in the field will also bring rewards in the form of profit to farmers and human and environmental health.