Researchers at RTU MIREA have developed a technology for long-acting fertilizers. These nutrients are released slowly into the soil after application, ensuring steady, efficient nourishment for plants. The result is improved yields and sustained soil fertility. This development was shared with socialbites.ca through the Ministry of Education and Science.
A durable effect comes from coating fertilizer granules with a special biodegradable layer.
Although the technology has not been patented, the team notes that they cannot disclose the exact composition of the coating. It blends organic and inorganic substances and can be adapted to many fertilizer varieties. When the granules are placed in soil, water penetrates the coating through its pores. The mineral core gradually dissolves, releasing nutrients into the soil over time.
Release duration depends on the coating’s thickness. Laboratory tests confirm the approach’s effectiveness, and real-world results in field conditions typically show even longer release periods. The researchers emphasize that the timeline is not measured in days or weeks but in months or even a year, with thicker coatings delivering longer activity. Soil type and climate influence outcomes, but the coating itself is the dominant factor in extending release, according to Julia Taran of NI MIREA.
Until now, such long-acting fertilizers have been more common among foreign manufacturers in Russia, with domestic options only recently gaining attention. The new development signals a shift toward locally produced solutions that can reduce the frequency of fertilizer applications while maintaining plant nutrition and crop yields. This approach aligns with efforts to optimize resource use and promote sustainable farming practices across growing seasons. Attribution: Ministry of Education and Science