Abstract: The present inventions generally relate to compositions and methods for providing agricultural chemicals comprising active ingredients (A.I.s) combined with a top dressing for application to cultivated areas of turfgrass. Specifically, the compositions are in the form of moist formulations for providing top dressings comprising active ingredients. Further, the inventions relate to compositions and methods for delivering active ingredients simultaneously with a top dressing composition to golf course turf.

Abstract: Methods of preparing a controlled release fertilizer include obtaining an amino acid fermentation byproduct liquor, and converting ammonium in the amino acid fermentation byproduct liquor to magnesium ammonium phosphate to obtain the controlled release fertilizer.

Abstract: A method of producing fertilizer out of sludge, in which method sludge is heated with superheated steam for achieving hygienization to destroy pathogenic microorganisms. In the method, the sludge is heated to a temperature of 60 to 100° C. with superheated steam having a temperature of 200 to 600° C. to activate increasing of the amount of soluble carbon in the sludge and to restart biodegradation of the sludge by using non-pathogenic microorganisms still remaining in the sludge after the heating.

Abstract: Biotic fertilizers are described that build soil nutrients by accelerating the growth of topsoil microorganisms Biotic fertilizers are primarily aimed at increasing populations of cyanobacteria, formally known as blue-green algae, and like organisms that have the ability to engage in photosynthesis reand to engage in the extraction of nitrogen from the atmosphere. Methods of biotic fertilizer manufacture are presented that utilize animal waste product as well as desirable compositions obtained thereby.

Abstract: The invention relates to an agricultural composition wherein the composition comprises an effective amount of a sulphur active ingredient and at least one dispersing agent.

Abstract: The invention is a process for treatment of brown grease, where the brown grease comprises water, food solids and free-oil. This process starts with the collection of the brown grease into a container. The brown grease's pH is adjusted with a chemical treatment to produce an adjusted brown grease phase. To the adjusted brown grease phase an anionic copolymer treatment mixture is added along with a cationic copolymer to form a reaction mixture. The reaction mixture reacts for a period of time, and during this time wastewater is discharged from the reaction mixture to produce resulting solids. The resulting solids are then transferred from the container for disposal or are processed further into a fuel or soil additive.

Abstract: A method is described for rendering char from a biomass fractionator apparatus (BMF char) suitable for addition to soil in high concentrations, the method relying on multiple processes comprising removing detrimental hydrocarbons from BMF char, removing adsorbed gases from BMF char, introducing microorganisms to the BMF char, and adjusting soil pH.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for the authentication of a product, comprising providing said product with at least one marker, wherein said marker is a phosphorescent marker selected from a set of m phosphorescent markers each having a different emission spectrum, wherein m is an integer equal or greater than 3, and wherein said marker is provided at an amount that results in a phosphor-specific emission below background radiation emitted from said product.

Abstract: The invention relates to an integrated power generation and organic fertilizer production system and method including: a biomass combustion-fuelled power station (12); a facility (14) for producing pelletized organic fertilizer (46); and means for capturing and redirecting waste heat from the power station (12) to the facility (14), to be used in producing pelletized organic fertilizer (46).

Abstract: Processes and apparatus produce economically feasible biodiesel without subsidies. Toward that end, integrated small plants process materials containing lipids with anhydrous bioethanol as solvent and reactant, and sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide mainly as catalysts to produce up to 3 million gallons of biodiesel per plant per year. The product is predominantly fatty acids ethyl esters (FAEE) and a chemically-enhanced organic fertilizer as byproduct. The raw material may include a wide variety of non-edible solid matter that contains lipids, which normally have from 0.5% to 80% by weight of free fatty acids in total oils. Multiple apparatus makes this process feasible. In addition to not competing with food production, since they supply fertilizer for small scale farmers, the processes and apparatus allow sustainable liquid fuel production.

Abstract: This invention is directed to systems, devices and methods for treating organic-containing sludges and converting such sludges to high value fertilizers containing both inorganic and organic fertilizer components, which creates an inorganically-augmented bioorganic fertilizer. The invention describes methods to create a thixotrophic or paste-like material via the application of mixing energy to the organic sludge followed by an alkaline treatment and a subsequent ammoniation. The invention further describes a method to increase the plant nutrient content in the organic containing product to a level which permits the finished granular fertilizer product to compete in the commercial agricultural fertilizer marketplace. Further, the invention reduces odors associated with said organic-containing sludges.

Abstract: A waste material processing system includes a closed container for holding waste material having a first passage in which the waste material flows in a first direction, the first passage having first and second ends, the first end including an inlet for waste material, a second passage in which the waste material flows in a direction opposite the first direction, the second passage having first and second ends, the second end including an outlet. The first passage is separated from the second passage by a divider, the second end of the first passage being adjacent the first end of the second passage, and the first end of the first passage being adjacent the second end of the second passage. A heating device is positioned in the first passage and/or the second passage to heat the waste material with a gas and to induce the waste material to move in a corkscrew-like fashion.

Abstract: A concentrated, homogenous, stable, water-soluble fertilizer suspension comprising: water-soluble mineral nutrients of at least nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, calcium, and magnesium; and an organic stabilizing additive; and wherein the pourable, aqueous suspension has water-soluble mineral nutrients amounting to at least about 80 percent by weight (wt. %) of the suspension.

Abstract: This invention is directed to systems, devices and methods for modifying the process of producing dried biosolids pellets or granules into beneficiated inorganically-augmented bioorganic fertilizer. The present invention describes a method to beneficiate heat-dried biosolids or sludge pellets or granules as presently manufactured by municipalities or companies from a) dewatered municipal wastewater biosolids or sludges within the municipal wastewater treatment plant heat-dried biosolids production facility or from b) finished dry heat dried biosolids pellets or granules in a separate manufacturing facility from the municipal wastewater treatment plant to produce a fertilizer containing sufficient organic and inorganic plant nutrients to be valuable and saleable into the commercial agricultural industry.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to turf grass seed mixtures for a low maintenance lawns and uses thereof. The lawn established from the specific seed varieties blended in certain proportions as described in the disclosure has a slow growth rate and deep roots and grows well in many regions across North America and elsewhere in the world. Because the lawn requires little watering or fertilizer and is hardy and naturally insect-tolerant, it is safe and environmentally friendly.

Abstract: The invention relates to a biochar-containing composition comprising biochar having organic matter therein and/or thereon, clay associated, optionally intercalated, with the organic matter, a non-clay mineral and optionally also a plant growth promoter.

Abstract: A foliarly applicable plant nutrient composition comprises, in aqueous solution, (a) a first component comprising an agriculturally acceptable source of foliarly absorbable silicon; (b) a second component selected from agriculturally acceptable sources of thiosulfate ions, agents effective to inhibit polymerization of silicic acid or silicate ions, and mixtures thereof; and (c) as a third component, an agriculturally acceptable mixture of compounds selected from the group consisting of organic acids, organic compounds having functional groups capable of reversibly binding or complexing with inorganic anions, and mixtures thereof. The composition is useful for silicon nutrition of a plant and for reducing susceptibility of a plant to fungal or bacterial disease.

Abstract: A method of producing reduced volatility of urea fertilizers comprising: dissolving N-(n-butyl)-thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT) in an amino alcohol having the formula 1—(H)x—N—((CH2)m—OH)n where m is 1-3, x is 0 or 1, and n is 2 when x is 1 and 3 when x is 0: or the formula 2—(H)y—N—((CH2)—CHOH—CH3)z such that the length of the carbon chain where the secondary hydroxyl group is located is 3, y is 0 or 1, and z is 2 when y is 1 and 3 when y is 0 to form an NBPT solution; and combining a urea fertilizer in granular or liquid form with the NBPT solution.

Abstract: A controlled release fertilizer including a fertilizer granule, having an outer surface, a coating of biopolymer composition on the outer surface of the fertilizer granule, wherein the biopolymer composition includes at least one biopolymer, and a process of making the controlled release fertilizer including the steps of screening fertilizer granules to a preselected granule size, heating a biopolymer to become substantially fluid, and applying the biopolymer onto the surface of the fertilizer granule to produce a coating on the granule of a predetermined amount.

Abstract: Reduced volatility of urea fertilizers are prepared in accordance with the present invention by first preparing an N-(n-butyl)-thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT) solution by dissolving NBPT in a mixture of an amino alcohol having the formula 1—(H)x—N—((CH2)m—OH)n where m is 1-3, x is 0 or 1, and n is 2 when x is 1 and 3 when x is 0: or the formula 2—(H)y—N—((CH2)—CHOH—CH3)z such that the length of the carbon chain where the secondary hydroxyl group is located is 3, y is 0 or 1, and z is 2 when y is 1 and 3 when y is 0, and a carboxylic acid having 6 or fewer carbon atoms. The solution is then combining with a urea fertilizer in granular or liquid form.

Abstract: Systems and methods for automated, rapid composting are disclosed. An air-tight housing prevents odors from leaking out. The housing is thermally insulated to enable the compost to achieve sufficient temperatures for rapid composting. A chambered system, generally including an optional hopper, a reactor, and a cure tray, physically shields odorous material from the external environment. A mixing wand mechanically mixes and/or breaks up the compost material and enhances air flow therethrough. A drip tray segregates liquid byproducts from the solid compost material. An air pump draws in air, while a carbon filter may absorb odors before returning the air to the external environment. A motor provides mixing, and facilitates opening and closing of the two trap doors separating the chambers. An electronic controller automates the composting process while allowing certain settings to be adjusted.

Abstract: A system, method and media formulation for high-quality and large-scale micropropagation of graminaceous plants such as M.×giganteus and switchgrass have been developed and include callus induction, callus propagation, plantlet regeneration, shoot multiplication, shoot quality improvement and rooting, resulting in high plant survival in the greenhouse and in the field. The systems and methods described herein are theoretically capable of producing more than 700 billion plants from one single shoot in one year.

Abstract: A water dispersible pellet and method of producing same comprising: micronized elemental sulphur with 80% of particles less than 30 microns, a binder component in the amount ranging from 0.95% to 95% by weight; a surfactant in the amount ranging from 0.05% to 10% by weight; a soluble salt present in the amount ranging from 0.05% to 95% by weight; bentonite clay in the amount ranging from 0.05% to 95% by weight. The pellet having a mean particle domain size and a mean crushing strength, all in a form such that within a few minutes of contact with water the pellet disperses into particles with more than 10% of said particles passing through a 50 mesh (US Standard Size) screen.

Abstract: A concentrated, homogenous, stable, water-soluble fertilizer suspension comprising: water-soluble mineral nutrients of at least nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, calcium, and magnesium; and an organic stabilizing additive; and wherein the pourable, aqueous suspension has water-soluble mineral nutrients amounting to at least about 80 percent by weight (wt. %) of the suspension.

Abstract: A waste water treatment system is provided that includes a basin for holding water; nitrifying and denitrifying bacteria; macroalgae; and a biobed having a at least one layer and being constructed of materials selected to provide sufficient level of pH for enabling bacterial growth. In the biobed de-nitrification and nitrification bacterial processes are separated. Oxygen produced by algae is used by the nitrifying bacteria. Water is provided continuously to the biobed at an inlet and exits the system downstream after having gone through the biobed. The system may be used with waste water in water treatment plants, domestic waste water (sewage), waste water from diverse industries, drain water from waste deposits, runoff water from roads, water waste treatment and recycling plants, agricultural and farm land and surrounding land of populated areas. The algae and bacteria are combined for symbiotic remediation of water that may be flexibly controlled to adapt to a broad range of applications.

Abstract: The invention describes a new method for the production of high nitrogen organically-augmented inorganic fertilizer that incorporates municipal biosolids or organic sludges that can compete with traditional fertilizers such as ammonium phosphate, ammonium sulfate and urea on the commodity fertilizer marketplace. The method creates a thixotropic paste-like material from the biosolids or organic sludge that is blended with hot or molten ammonium salts, especially a mixture of ammonium phosphate and ammonium sulfate. The invention can be an add-on to commercial production of ammonium salts or it can stand alone by manufacturing ammonium salts prior to their introduction to the conditioned biosolids. The invention is oriented to be tailored to production facilities for individual municipal waste treatment plants in order to keep manufacturing plants small with a minimization of logistics and liability.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods and system for the production of biogas, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency classified Class A Biosolids, and pathogen reduced organic liquid fertilizer. Through the digestion of waste materials using sequential phases in an efficient digestion process, enhanced biomass conversion efficiency and improved output of products (in quantity and/or quality) are obtained with a significant reduction in dwell time in each phase.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is the production of hydrocarbon based fuel from micro-organisms and algae that comprise algaenan without requiring prior removal of water, as well as the production of hydrocarbon based fuel directly from the algaenan itself. Also disclosed herein are feed material for the processes disclosed herein comprising modified algae and algaenan that selectively produce hydrocarbon of desired chain lengths, along with the process of modifying the algae and algaenan. Also disclosed herein is the production of both hydrocarbon and organic fertilizer from algae without the need to remove the water from the algae prior to processing.

Abstract: An organic mixture for retaining water in soil includes 30 to 38 kg of cellulose fiber waste or paper sludge, 8 to 13 kg of dry sawdust or wood shavings, 30 to 50 kg of top soil, 4 to 6.5 kg of manure, and 11.45 to 20 kg of calcium carbonate.

Abstract: A macronutrient sustained release composition for a plant locus having nitrogen containing macronutrient compound adsorbed on the surface of hydroxyapatite phosphate nanoparticles, and a process for preparation thereof. The macronutrient adsorbed hydroxyapatite phosphate nanoparticles are encapsulated within cavities present in wood such that the biodegradation of the wood releases the adsorbed macronutrient compounds in a slow and sustained manner to the soil. Further, the macronutrient particles are encapsulated within the cell cavities of wood and wood is coated with cellulose modified hydroxyapatite phosphate nanoparticles such that the rupture of the nanocoating initiates the nitrogen release followed by the biodegradation of the wood releases the rest of the adsorbed macronutrient compounds in a slow and sustained manner to the soil.

Abstract: A method and system for treatment of biological wastes for preparation of fertilizers is provided. The method and system involves mixing a biological waste with a dilute sulfuric acid in a predetermined ratio. The mixture of the biological waste and the dilute sulfuric acid is then filtered to obtain an organic slurry and an acidic liquid. Thereafter, the organic slurry is thermally cracked at an elevated temperature to obtain at least one of an ammonia gas, one or more flue gases, and char and ash. The method and system further involves utilizing the ammonia gas, the char and ash, and the acidic liquid for preparation of the fertilizers.

Abstract: This invention discloses systems and methods for conversion of high moisture waste materials to dry or low moisture products for recycle or reuse. The equipment systems comprise a gas turbine generator unit (preferred heat source), a dryer vessel and a processing unit, wherein the connection between the gas turbine and the dryer vessel directs substantially all the gas turbine exhaust into the dryer vessel and substantially precludes the introduction of air into the dryer vessel and wherein the processing unit forms the dried material from the dryer vessel into granules, pellets or other desired form for the final product. Optionally, the systems and methods further provide for processing ventilation air from manufacturing facilities to reduce emissions therefrom.

Abstract: Slow calcium release fertilizers and methods for their synthesis are described. Organic materials, particularly from manure are used for coating to achieve slow release forms of the fertilizer. Desirably, low temperature kinetic treatments are used to prepare pulverized forms having small size yet well coated with natural (non-denatured) molecular material to achieve the slow release. A desired embodiment is made from kinetic processing of rock gypsum and manure at low temperatures with added acid. Use of the fertilizers leads to acceleration of microbial viability.

Abstract: A value-added granulated organic fertilizer produced from poultry litter and biosolids using agglomeration techniques with a pin mixer. The granulated organic fertilizer includes granules biosolids, a nitrification inhibitor, such as dicyandiamide, and a binding agent, such as lignosulfonate, urea formaldehyde, or water. The nitrogen concentration of the granulated organic fertilizer is increased by being fortified with urea. The poultry litter and biosolids formulated into the granulated organic fertilizer aid in flowability, storage, and spreading, while value-added plant nutrient ingredients provide an environmentally safer fertilizer than fresh poultry litter, municipal biosolids and/or many commercially available products commonly used in urban and agricultural systems. The binding agents change the fertilizer granule water soluble phosphorus and nitrogen concentrations and reduce fines and dust.

Abstract: The invention is directed to methods for producing a granular nitrogen fertilizer from an organic material comprising adding a metallic salt to said organic material to form a slurry. Preferably the organic material comprises dewatered biosolids and contains water from a scrubber. Metallic salts that can be used comprise a salt of iron, zinc, or a mixture thereof. Preferred iron salts comprises ferric sulfate or ferric oxide, and preferred zinc salts comprises zinc sulfate or zinc oxide. Preferably, the metallic salt is mixed with an acid such as sulfuric acid to form an acidified metal salt. Slurry pH ranges from approximately 2-2.5. The acidified metal salt is added to the organic material in sufficient quantity to lower viscosity of the slurry such that the resulting fluid does not hinder fluid flow during operation. When the metallic salt comprises acidified ferric sulfate or ferrous sulfate, sufficient iron can be present to produce a fertilizer product with 0.

Abstract: Reduced volatility of urea fertilizers are prepared in accordance with the present invention by first preparing an N-(n-butyl)-thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT) solution by dissolving NBPT in a mixture of an amino alcohol having the formula 1—(H)x—N—((CH2)m—OH)n where m is 1-3, x is 0 or 1, and n is 2 when x is 1 and 3 when x is 0: or the formula 2—(H)y—N—((CH2)—CHOH—CH3)z such that the length of the carbon chain where the secondary hydroxyl group is located is 3, y is 0 or 1, and z is 2 when y is 1 and 3 when y is 0, and a carboxylic acid having 6 or fewer carbon atoms. The solution is then combining with a urea fertilizer in granular or liquid form.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for inhibiting the formation or accumulation of ice on a solid surface and for reducing the salt out temperatures.

Abstract: The invention is a method of composting using bags to aerate organic matter.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of using a fertilizer, comprising an amino acid selected from the group of L-glutamine, L-asparagine and L-arginine as major nitrogen source, optionally together with inorganic nitrogen and/or a suitable preservative, for stimulating root growth, inducing more fine roots, increase the number of root tips and/or for stimulating mycorrhiza development.

Abstract: The invention provides inter alia a mineral complex comprising about 40 wt. % to about 60 wt. % SiO2, about 6 wt. % to about 16 wt. % Fe2O3, about 4 wt. % to about 12 wt. %. CaO, about 2 wt. % to about 8 wt. % MgO, wherein at least 85% of the mineral complex has a particle size of about 10 to about 6000 mesh, related compositions and methods for their use, including for growth medium augmentation and remediation.

Abstract: Erythritol having a specific surface area greater than 0.25 m2/g, preferably greater than 0.3 m2/g, is granulated together with a binder selected from the group consisting of pregelatinised starch, microcrystalline cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, maltose, sorbitol, maltitol, xylitol, isomalt, and mixtures thereof. Tablets are prepared and the corresponding process is described.

Abstract: Novel low-carbon fertilizers and processes useful for the production of the novel low-carbon fertilizers are disclosed.

Abstract: A method for producing an algal biomass that readily separable from water, and preferably sterile, the method comprising heating an aqueous slurry of algae comprising a mixture of an algal biomass, optionally together with a suitable separation agent, and water in a pressure vessel at a temperature of about 140° C. to about 300° C. and a pressure sufficient to maintain the liquid phase. The method produces an algal biomass that is more readily separable from water and an aqueous phase containing organic chemicals.

Abstract: A process is proposed for recovery of water in the sugar cane processing in production mills of sugar and alcohol or only alcohol (ethanol).

Abstract: Natural organic-containing substrates such as leonardite, lignite, peat, shale, sediment and soil are treated with alkaline or suitable chelating agents as extractants for organic matter in the nature of soluble fulvic and humic acid fractions. The mixture containing naturally occurring substances and extractant is then transferred to a centrifuge to produce a sediment or settled phase and a supernatant phase. The yield of organic matter found in the supernatant phase following centrifugation is significantly greater than the corresponding yield obtained when the mixtures are allowed to settle under gravity in the absence of centrifugation.

Abstract: Improved agriculturally useful products are provided, including solid materials such as nitrogenous fertilizers (e.g., urea), together with a polycarboxylated polymer selected from the group consisting of a salts of copolymers containing individual quantities of maleic and itaconic moieties. The polymer composition also includes from about 10-60% by weight of an organic drying agent such as a lower alcohol which enhances the quick drying properties thereof. The compositions may also include an amount of boron, and bimodal vinylic polymer made up of quantities of high and low molecular weight (MW) vinylic polymers such as PVA.

Abstract: A water-dispersible particle is provided that includes struvite in an amount ranging from 5% to 99.9% by weight of the total dry weight of the particle. A binder component is present in an amount from 1% to 95% by weight. The struvite and the binder component on that contact with water causes particle dispersion into more than 100 pieces. A process for making a water-dispersible particle includes mechanical aggregation of a struvite into a pellet. A binder component is present in the particle in an amount ranging from 1% to 95% by weight. The struvite and the binder component are present in a form such that contact with water causes particle dispersion into more than 100 pieces. The particle is then dried and ready to be applied.

Abstract: The present invention is related to a formulation based on (i) micronized natural calcite mineral (MC) of particles size from 500 nm to 5 ?m, which contains variable amounts of calcite (CaCO3), dolomite [CaMg (CO3)2], ankerite [Ca (Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn) (CO3)2], and quartz (SiO2); (ii) micronized zeolite of particles size from 500 nm to 5 ?m, of general formula (Mn+) x/n [(AlO2) x (SiO2) y].mH2O (MZ) wherein Me=Na, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu; whereas ratio of silicon to aluminum, y:x is between 1:1 to >10:1; whilst m is number of crystalline water molecules which can be from 0 to >20; and of (iii) one or more additives which, with components (i) and (ii), yiled in the final form of the formulation suitable for practical use: powder; wettable powder; concentrate for suspension; or granules; and/or which enhance basic biological actions of (i).

Abstract: Improved agriculturally useful products are provided, including solid materials such as nitrogenous fertilizers (e.g., urea), together with a polycarboxylated polymer selected from the group consisting of a salts of copolymers containing individual quantities of maleic and itaconic moieties. The polymer composition also includes from about 10-60% by weight of an organic drying agent such as a lower alcohol which enhances the quick drying properties thereof. The compositions may also include an amount of boron, and bimodal vinylic polymer made up of quantities of high and low molecular weight (MW) vinylic polymers such as PVA.

Abstract: Concentrated phosphorus fertilizers are disclosed that comprise a buffered composition of an organic acid and salts thereof and a phosphorous-containing acid and salts thereof. The concentrated phosphorus fertilizers can be diluted with water of pH ranging from about 6.5 to about 8.5 at ratios of concentrate to water at about 1:40 to about 1:600 to result in a fertilizer having a pH in the range acceptable for foliar uptake of phosphorus.