Title:
Adding Value to Lignocellulosic Wastes - Application in Microencapsulation of Fertilizers and Contributing to a Sustainable Agriculture
Author(s):
Aqeel, M., Abias, M., Dias, C., Souza, V.G.L., Fernando, A.L.
Document(s):
Paper
Poster
Abstract:
The growing population is driving up the demand for food, feed, fiber and fuels, but the inadequate efficiency of traditional fertilizers is constraining crop production. Moreover, the inadequate use of fertilizers is also posing a risk to the ecosystems, especially when there is a surplus of nutrients given to the crops. This surplus can be leached to ground and surface waters and contaminated water streams. Micro and nanotechnology-based fertilizers represent a novel strategy for boosting agricultural output and show great potential as viable options in the fertilizer industry, as they can significantly enhance nutrient retention and promote optimal growth. This work explores recent advancements in the field of microencapsulation applied to fertilizers, with a primary focus on improving nutrient efficiency and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Microencapsulation techniques offer innovative solutions to address challenges related to nutrient loss, environmental impact, and inefficient fertilizer utilization in traditional farming practices. The review highlights key developments in microencapsulation technologies, including encapsulation materials, methods, and their impact on nutrient release dynamics, with a focus on the production of materials for microencapsulation that are biobased and produced from lignocellulosic wastes. Lignocellulosic wastes and derivatives are hydrophilic and present good film forming ability and surface activity. Several methods can be applied to produce the bio-based capsules: spray drying, fluidized bed coating, extrusion, emulsification/precipitation coacervation. The microencapsulation of urea with a sugarcane bagasse derivative has proven to be effective. Lignin coatings have shown optimal slow-release properties for NPK fertilizers. Although advancements have been made in microencapsulating certain fertilizers, further research is needed, especially for phosphatic fertilizers and micronutrients. Overall, microencapsulation technologies hold significant potential to enhance nutrient efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. The synthesis of current research findings underscores the potential of microencapsulation to revolutionize fertilizer management, fostering a more environmentally friendly and economically viable approach to agricultural practices.
Keywords:
sustainability, fertilizers, lignocellulosic crops, microencapsulation
Topic:
Biomass Conversion to Biomaterials and Chemicals
Subtopic:
Processes for biomaterials and bio-based chemicals
Event:
33rd European Biomass Conference and Exhibition
Session:
6CV.7.17
Pages:
1173 - 1176
ISBN:
978-88-89407-25-7
Paper DOI:
10.5071/33rdEUBCE2025-6CV.7.17
Price:
FREE
