Fertilizer technology based on optimized nitrogen release from urea-loaded natural superabsorbent carriers

There is a pressing need for advanced fertilizer application technologies that enhance crop yields, maintain soil health and reduce the environmental impact from agriculture. Here, we report on the optimization of nitrogen release profiles of urea-loaded polysaccharide (starch) superabsorbent carriers, employing analytical techniques including UV-VIS, FTIR, EDX, SEM and GC-FID for structural and phospholipid fatty acids PLFA analyses. We fitted existing kinetic models to the uptake and release profiles, providing a link between nitrogen release kinetics and carrier structural variables. The inclusion of zeolite microparticles in the starch-based carriers accelerated the rate of nitrogen release and increasing the maximum amount released. Field tests of the technology on maize crops demonstrated improved plant parameters and enhanced the soil microbial population. These findings highlight the promise of urea-loaded natural superabsorbent carriers as a sustainable alternative to core-shell CRF fertilizers and urease inhibitors.