Biopolymeric-based, multilayered hydrogel beads for the slow release of N-fertilizers | |
| Author | Gopi |
| Call Number | AIT Thesis no.FB-20-12 |
| Subject(s) | Microencapsulation Fertilizers Polymeric chemistry |
| Note | A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Food Engineering and Bioprocess Technology, School of Environment, Resources and Development |
| Publisher | Asian Institute of Technology |
| Series Statement | Thesis ; no.FB-20-12 |
| Abstract | Evaluated bio-polymeric based Multi-layered encapsulation system for slow release of fertilisers as a possible alternative for nitrate slow-release fertilizer. Fabricated ALGCTS-STPP particles with different ratio of urea were synthesized by co-precipitation and characterized by SEM and FTIR analysis. Batch experiments with ALG-CTSSTPP particles containing blank, 0.5, 0.1, 1.5, 2.0, or 2.5 CaCl2 showed that anions exchange 60 to 100% of intercalated nitrate within some hours. Soil column studies with soils from Thailand regions confirmed the rapid release of nitrate from SRFs.Fertilizer plays a crucial role in maintaining soil fertility, increasing yields and improving harvest quality. However, a significant portion of fertilizers is lost, increasing agricultural cost, wasting energy and polluting the environment, which are challenges for the sustainability of contemporary agriculture. The application of degradable natural biopolymer materials as a coating when amending soils is that the focus of SRF research. The main findings covered during this research are as follows: 1) SRF coatings can prevent urea exposure in water and soil by serving as a physical barrier, thereby reducing the urea hydrolysis rate and decreasing pollutant (NOx) and dinitrogen (N2) emissions, 2) SRFs can increase the soil organic matter content, 3) hydrogel/superabsorbent coated SRFs can buffer soil acidity or alkalinity and cause an optimal pH for plants, and 4) hydrogel/superabsorbent coated EFFs can improve waterretention and water-holding capacity of the soil. Lastly, encapsulated slow-release fertilizers play a crucial role in enhancing nutrients efficiency and reducing the environmental pollution. |
| Year | 2020 |
| Corresponding Series Added Entry | Asian Institute of Technology. Thesis ; no.FB-20-12 |
| Type | Thesis |
| School | School of Environment, Resources, and Development (SERD) |
| Department | Department of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources (Former title: Department of Food Agriculture, and BioResources (DFAB)) |
| Academic Program/FoS | Food Engineering and Bioprocess Technology (FB) |
| Chairperson(s) | Anal, Anil Kumar; |
| Examination Committee(s) | Loc Thai Nguyen;Datta, Avishek; |
| Scholarship Donor(s) | Asian Institute of Technology Fellowship; |
| Degree | Thesis (M. Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2020 |