Abstract: A process for the production of elemental sulphur-urea fertilizer products is described, comprising the preparation of molten urea; preparing a suspension of micronized sulphur particles with water; mixing the molten urea with suspension of micronized sulphur particles with water wherein the micronized sulphur particles substantially remain in micronized solid state; and spraying the mixture of molten urea and suspension of micronized sulphur particles with water into a granulator, wherein the water in the mixture is flashed off, resulting in the formation of sulphur-urea granules with an even distribution of urea and micronized sulphur particles. An elemental sulphur-urea fertilizer composition obtained by the process is also described.

Abstract: The present media is to be used with a particulate base having particles of a first maximum diameter for growing plants. The media includes granules which are of biodegradable recycled material and have a diameter relative to the first maximum diameter to penetrate further into the particulate base with each watering. The granules include plant nutrients and are of a material which coagulates after watering and adheres to the particulates of the base. The diameter of the granules may be in the range of 1/16 to ? of an inch.

Abstract: The invention relates to a potassium sulphate powder wherein about 80 wt % or more of the powder has a particle size of about 0.2 mm or lower, preferably about 0.13 mm or less. The particle size preferably is such, that about 80 wt % or more is about 0.02 mm or higher, more preferably about 0.04 mm or higher. This potassium sulphate powder dissolves easily in water, more in particular, 50 gram of said potassium sulphate powder dissolves in 1 liter of water without stirring within 1 minute, preferably within 30 sec. This potassium sulphate powder is very suitable as foliar fertilizer, in particular for broad acre crops. Further, the invention relates to the use of foliar potassium fertilizer, to enhance the uptake of potassium from the soil.

Abstract: The present Invention deals with an alternative Interfacial polymerization process of microencapsulation, microcapsule's produced thereof, microencapsulated agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, catalysts and phase transfer materials, and formulations thereof, by means of microcapsules and starting materials with the participation of acetylene carbamide derivatives in the final structure of the microcapsules' wall.

Abstract: A product comprising microcapsules which themselves comprise (a) a polymeric shell; and (b) a core which comprises (i) a solid agrochemical dispersed in a matrix and (ii) a water-immiscible liquid characterized in that the matrix is distributed non-continuously throughout the water-immiscible liquid.

Abstract: Insecticidal compositions suitable for use in preparation of insecticidal granular fertilizer and insecticidal formulations comprising a pyrethroid and a glycol present in a concentration of from 40.0% by weight to 99.0% by weight based upon the total weight of all components in the composition is disclosed.

Abstract: Colorized components of a fertilizer concentrate blend may be apportioned according to a reference hue that may be associated with a target plan growth cycle and the apportionment may be refined according to referenced and measured electrical conductivity values of the blend in progress.

Abstract: A cutting cultivation medium, containing at least: the following components in the following volume percentages: pine scales 20-50%, vermiculite 10-40%, peat 15-40%, and perlite 10-30%, 300-700 g trace elements per cubic meter of cultivation medium being added. A preparation method for a cutting cultivation medium containing at least the following steps: mixing components and trace elements and molding them into a rod-shaped cultivation medium covered by a reticular fiber having a diameter between 4-7 cm, and cutting it into a cylinder body with a length of 5-7 cm and thus a final product is obtained. The cutting cultivation medium provides a good medium environment for cutting cultivation of plants, significantly reduces cultivation time of cutting seedlings, extends wilting time of seedlings after nursery, and provides longer transportation time and a higher survival rate for transplanting of the cutting seedlings.

Abstract: A sparingly water-soluble plant quality improver characterized by containing a polyvalent metal, an organic acid having a carboxylic group, an alkali metal and/or ammonia, and phosphate ions and/or carbonate ions. The sparingly water-soluble plant quality improver inhibits or alleviates physiological disorders of plants and further has the function of improving qualities of the plants, such as sugar content and acidity. It is also characterized in that it causes little fruit surface soiling to heighten the merchandice value, and that it is lowly phytotoxic and highly safe.

Abstract: A macronutrient sustained release composition for a plant locus containing a nanocomposite wherein a nitrogen containing macronutrient compound adsorbed on the surface of hydroxy apatite phosphate nanoparticles is intercalated within the interlayer spacing of a nanoclay. The nanocomposite containing the adsorbed macronutrient compounds is slowly released in a sustained manner when contacted with an acidic soil.

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 present invention deals with an alternative interfacial polymerization process of microencapsulation, microcapsule's produced thereof, microencapsulated agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, catalysts and phase transfer materials, and formulations thereof, by means of microcapsules and starting materials with much lower toxicological profile than customary microencapsulation materials, and with the participation of acetylene carbamide derivatives in the final structure of the microcapsules' wall.

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 hazardous substance adsorbing tablet prepared by direct compression of a dry powder mixture which includes a porous particulate adsorbent having an average particle diameter of 100 ?m or less and containing 200 mesh pass particles in an amount of more than 80% by weight, and a particulate binder having an apparent specific gravity of at least 1.

Abstract: A water-dispersible particle for delivery of fertilizer to a plant is disclosed. After delivery wetting of the particles causes particle dispersion so as to prevent secondary pick up to the particles. Methods for making and using the water-dispersible particle are described.

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: An economically efficient agricultural pellet of enhanced structural integrity comprises up to about 15% by weight of non-crystalline silica fibers blended with one or more other nutrient substances, such as calcium silicate and/or magnesium sulfite, such that the silica fibers to form an interlaced matrix dispersed throughout the body of the pellet. Fragmentation agent(s) and/or soil amendments may also be included. The silica fiber matrix provides both structural reinforcement and a source of bio-available silicon. In embodiments including calcium silicate, additional structural integrity is gained through pozzolonic bonding.

Abstract: Process for the production of urea-comprising particles, wherein the urea-comprising particles are produced in a pelletizer, comprising a feeding device, a belt and a device to remove the formed pellets from the belt, by feeding a urea-comprising liquid to the feeding device from which droplets of the urea-comprising liquid are dosed to the belt, whereon the urea-comprising droplets solidify and cool to a temperature of ?55° C., whereafter the formed urea-comprising particles are removed from the belt.

Abstract: In a method for fertilizing plants, a water source is attached to a fertilizer distribution device including a controlled release fertilizer, the water source is activated, and a controlled release fertilizer enriched solution of water is distributed from the fertilizer distribution device upon a plant or the ground. The fertilizer distribution device includes the supply of controlled release fertilizer, an inlet configured to attach to a water source and an outlet configured to release a flow of fertilizer enriched water from the fertilizer distribution device. The supply of controlled release fertilizer includes a set of granules. The granules have a plurality of different solubility rates.

Abstract: A technique is provided for delivering plant supportive materials to plants. The technique utilizes encapsulation of a plant growth facilitator, such as a plant nutrient, water or pesticide, in small structures that may be taken in through the stomata of plants. This enables a more efficient treatment, watering and/or feeding of plants by foliar application.

Abstract: A method of preparing and coating fertilizer pellets is described. Fertilizer, seed or other materials are added to a blender. Powdered micronutrients are added to the blend (at any time in the process) at rates up to but not exceeding 1% of the total blend. The resulting blend is mixed for a minimum of 20 seconds resulting in an even distribution (coating) of the total blend. The blend is then packaged into bags, spreaders or trucks and stored or applied to the field. Seed or fertilizer is augured or moved via conveyors or other means into seeding equipment or a blender. The finished product is then applied to the field or stored for later applications.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for making formulated nitrogenous and complex fertilizers, in granule form, suitable for slowly releasing nitrogen, comprising the steps of preparing an aqueous urea/formaldehyde dispersion with a molar ratio from 0.8:1 to 2:1, adding an aqueous catalyzer solution in a weight ratio from 0.1 to 4%, controlling the pH of the aqueous dispersion to hold it within a range from 4.0 to 7.0, and supplying the aqueous dispersion to a recirculating granulating device, as a growth seed.

Abstract: Aggregates of cellulose-containing particles, such as particles of waste paper and optional other vegetation or waste particles are used as a carrier for additives such as insecticides, herbicides, fertilizers and nutrients. The particles can be also used as a carrier for insect repellants, preferably naturally occurring insect repellants, to repel insects from rooms, buildings, plants, and outdoor areas, and to carry adhered seeds onto an area to be planted with seeds.

Abstract: A prilling method comprising the steps of: providing a molten first component, mixing at least a second component with the molten first component, reacting the components to form a shear-thinnable mixture; and prilling the shear-thinnable mixture wherein the prilling comprises mechanically agitating in the prill head to shear thin the shear-thinnable mixture sufficiently to permit prilling. The inventive method can be used to produce fertilizer product comprising ammonium sulfate nitrate.

Abstract: A composition suitable for making films, wherein the composition contains keratin obtained from avian feathers and at least one OH containing plasticizer. Protein-based films containing at least one protein and at least one OH containing plasticizer, wherein the protein is a protein whose PE value is ?2.5 where PE=(S+T+Y)/C where PE is plasticizer efficiency and where S, T, Y, and C are the amino acids serine, threonine, tyrosine, and cysteine, respectively, in the protein. Preferably the protein is keratin obtained from avian feathers.

Abstract: A process for producing tablets comprising one or more active substances, in which pulverulent to granular starting components are shaped and then solidified, wherein the solidification takes place by reacting a component A and a component B with one another, components A and B being mixed with the starting components, applied to them or added after shaping.

Abstract: Mechanically strong, water-disintegrable agglomerates made from a particulate calcium source, a water-soluble binder and optionally containing a primary plant nutrient source and/or micronutrient source and a process for forming such agglomerates are disclosed. The agglomerates may be used as a soil liming agent and for introducing nutrient values into cultivated soil. Also disclosed is a method for introducing nutrient values into cultivated soil so as to inhibit leaching of the nutrient values from the soil and improve utilization of the nutrient values by plants grown in the soil.

Abstract: Coatings for agricultural grade fertilizer particles and industrial grade ammonium nitrate are provided which when applied to particles form a protective film which acts as a barrier to inhibit or prevent hydrocarbon infiltration of the fertilizer particle pores and also to physically separate the fertilizer particles and hydrocarbon materials. In so doing, the coating greatly reduces the efficacy of the fertilizer particles as an oxidizing agent for use in incendiary devices, thereby deterring or preventing the use of agricultural grade fertilizers or industrial grade ammonium nitrate in creating weapons of terror.

Abstract: An agricultural item comprising a biodegradable polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer comprising two randomly repeating monomer units. The first randomly repeating monomer unit has the structure: wherein R1 is H or a C1-2 alkyl, and n is 1 or 2; and the second randomly repeating monomer unit has the structure: wherein R2 is a C3-19 alkyl or a C3-19 alkenyl. At least 50% of the randomly repeating monomer units have the structure of the first randomly repeating monomer unit.

Abstract: A water-dispersible particle for delivery of nitrogen to a plant is disclosed. The water-dispersible particle also delivers an active ingredient such as a plant hormone to a desirable plant or a pesticide or herbicide to an undesirable organism. Methods for making and using the water-dispersible particle are described.

Abstract: A regenerated cellulose-encapsulated active substance and a method for encapsulating an active substance in a regenerated cellulose matrix are disclosed. The distribution of the active substance is preferably substantially homogeneous within the matrix of regenerated cellulose. The regenerated cellulose (i) has about the same molecular weight as the original cellulose from which it is prepared (ii) is substantially free of added substituent groups relative to the starting cellulose and is also substantially free of entrapped ionic liquid degradation products.

Abstract: A method of wet granulation of fertilizer and other materials into granules. The method involves formation of the granule directly on the pan from the feedstock without intermediate steps or the use of seed materials. The result is a product having a completely uniform cross section. The feedstock is initially in the size distribution of −150 mesh with 90% or greater in the size range of 200 mesh. Moisture is maintained to facilitate a steady process without cycling. The method has the advantage of allowing granulation of materials either known to be hazardous or inherently difficult to granulate in a safe and expedient manner. The process permits the formation of multiple feedstock granules. The initial feedstock may be augmented with a different feedstock in a second pan having a different composition and size from the initial feedstock.

Abstract: A coated triggered start product is formed from a particulate core material comprising at least one water soluble active constituent and at least one coating layer applied on the particulate core material. The coating layer causes the product to exhibit “lock-off” type release characteristics whereby release of the active constituent of the core material from the coated product is essentially completely suppressed until release is initiated by application of a trigger material to the coating layer. Processes for preparing and using such triggered start products are also provided.

Abstract: This invention relates to fertilizer encapsulation with polyurethanes wherein the isocyanate-reactive composition contains sulfur. The process of the present invention comprises applying a polyisocyanate composition to fertilizer particles, applying an isocyanate-reactive composition which contains sulfur to the polyisocyanate coated fertilizer particles, or applying an isocyanate-reactive composition which contains sulfur to fertilizer particles and then applying a polyisocyanate composition to the isocyanate-reactive coated fertilizer particles, and repeating these steps as necessary to form sulfur containing polyurethane encapsulated fertilizer particles.

Abstract: Aggregates of cellulose-containing particles, such as particles of waste paper and optional other vegetation or waste particles are used as a carrier for additives such as insecticides, herbicides, fertilizers and nutrients. The particles permits a “timed release” of the additives. The particles can be employed as a building insulation to prevent infestations of roaches, termites, ant, or other insects in the building when they contain insecticides. The particles can also be employed to promote revegetation of denuded areas, such as highway right of ways when they contain fertilizers and nutrients.

Abstract: Novel mixed agricultural compositions, and methods for their use are disclosed. The agricultural compositions are prepared by a process comprising mixing together a carrier, such as a solid fertilizer or liquid solvent, and a carbohydrate-based surfactant, such as AGRIMUL PG 2069 (Henkel, Dusseldorf, Germany). For example, 8 quarts of surfactant were mixed with one ton of a solid fertilizer. The carrier material can further comprise biologically active agents such as herbicides, insecticides, chemosterilants, nematicides, and fungicides. These mixed agricultural compositions are used to promote the growth of plants in soil and enhance soil bioremediation.

Abstract: This invention relates to fertilizer encapsulation with polyurethanes wherein the isocyanate-reactive composition contains sulfur. The process of the present invention comprises applying a polyisocyanate composition to fertilizer particles, applying an isocyanate-reactive composition which contains sulfur to the polyisocyanate coated fertilizer particles, or applying an isocyanate-reactive composition which contains sulfur to fertilizer particles and then applying a polyisocyanate composition to the isocyanate-reactive coated fertilizer particles, and repeating these steps as necessary to form sulfur containing polyurethane encapsulated fertilizer particles.

Abstract: A fertilizer composition that includes a plurality of particles in which the particles feature a plurality of sulfur platelets embedded within a fertilizer portion, and a method for preparing this composition in which fertilizer-containing particles are sprayed first with a sulfur spray, and then with a slurry containing fertilizer or a precursor thereof, followed by curing.

Abstract: A molluscicidal material having a predetermined size, composed of an interior core having predetermined properties, at least one adhesive, a mollusk attractant and a molluscicide coating, and the process of treating plants and mollusks with the same.

Abstract: A method of wet granulation of fertilizer and other materials into granules. The method involves formation of the granule directly on the pan from the feedstock without intermediate steps or the use of seed materials. The result is a product having a completely uniform cross section. The feedstock is initially in the size distribution of −150 mesh with 90% or greater in the size range of 200 mesh. Moisture is maintained to facilitate a steady process without cycling.

Abstract: Water swellable pellets, and a method of making, including peat moss, a pH adjusting agent, a wetting agent, and optionally a processing additive, preferably with a bulk density of about 300 kg/m3 to about 600 kg/m3.

Abstract: A free-flowing fertilizer comprising: i) from 25 to 99.5% by weight of a powdered water soluble nitrogen containing fertilizer. ii) from 0.05 to 1.5% by weight of a polyacrylamide liquid emulsion/dispersion. iii) from 0.1 to 3.0% by weight of a polyacrylamide powder whose particle size is primarily 50 to 100 mesh in size.

Abstract: Mechanically strong, water-disintegrable agglomerates made from a particulate calcium source, a water-soluble binder and optionally containing a primary plant nutrient source and/or micronutrient source and a process for forming such agglomerates are disclosed. The agglomerates may be used as a soil liming agent and for introducing nutrient values into cultivated soil. Also disclosed is a method for introducing nutrient values into cultivated soil so as to inhibit leaching of the nutrient values from the soil and improve utilization of the nutrient values by plants grown in the soil.

Abstract: The invention is a sprayable organic fertilizer for application to a plant or plant soil that includes denatured soybean particles having a total protein content of at least fifty and up to ninety percent by weight, wherein the denatured soybean particles have a particle size of no greater than 250 microns, and wherein the denatured soybean particles are dispersed in an adequate amount of a liquid carrier so that the particles may be evenly sprayed onto the plant or plant soil through a liquid applicator. The denatured soybean particles may be mixed with a yeast extract that stimulates microbial growth. The sprayable organic fertilizer cannot be leached from the soil; cannot burn target plants; enhances the ecosystem of the root zone of the target plants; and, provides a high nitrogen analysis.

Abstract: Controlled release urea-based feed supplements for ruminant animals and controlled release urea-based plant nutrients are comprised of particles or granules comprised in whole or in principal part of urea or having urea at or on the exterior surfaces thereof, and a moisture resistant interpenetrating polymer network coating on the particles comprised of the reaction products of urea and a polyisocyanate, and the reaction products of polyisocyanate, an alkyd resin having at least one double bond in each repeat unit and an oil having at least one double bond, the double bonds being reactive with one another and with themselves. The coated plant nutrients have a substantially linear rate of release of nutrients to the soil over a controlled period of time, e.g., 30 to 120 days. The coated ruminant feed supplements have a substantially linear rate of NPN release in the rumen over a controlled period of time, e.g., 12 to 24 hours.

Abstract: Mechanically strong, water-disintegrable agglomerates for use as a soil conditioner produced from cement kiln dust and other particulate calcium sources containing CaO or Ca(OH)2 and other calcium-containing compounds having the potential to be hydrated and a process for forming such agglomerates are disclosed. The process comprises combining the particulate calcium source and a water-soluble binder to produce agglomerates which are then subjected to controlled drying such that the dried agglomerates having a size ranging from −7 to +8 Tyler Standard Sieve Series exhibit an average green crush strength of at least about 2 pounds (about 0.9 kg).

Abstract: A method of application of organic fertilizer. In accordance with the teachings of this method plant matter is dehydrated and pelletized to form fertilizer pellets. The fertilizer pellets are then spread on soil. When the fertilizer pellets are hydrated, the fertilizer pellets release nutrients into the soil. This form of organic fertilizer is easy to handle and has a higher concentration of nutrients than other fertilizers made from plant matter.

Abstract: The coated fertilizer granules are coated with a carboxyl-carrying ethylene copolymer in which the carboxyl groups may also be in the form of their salts, the carboxyl-carrying ethylene copolymer being composed of a) from 75 to 90% by weight of ethylene and b) from 10 to 25% by weight of an &agr;-olefinically unsaturated C3-C8-alkanecarboxylic acid, and those coated fertilizer granules which contain an active ingredient for crop protection being excepted.

Abstract: Granulated particles by making use an initial feedstock having particle size of −150 mesh and 90% or greater particle size of 200 mesh. The feedstock may be contacted in a pan granulator which includes a minor amount of nucleating material of about −35 mesh. Binder is introduced into the pan granulator to progressively layer the feedstock material onto the nucleating to form a final granular fertilizer or other product in any desired size distribution. The method by which the granules are formed is interruptible and is particularly useful for forming granules having a plurality of layers of differing material. The granules, by formation with dust feedstock and in the absence of seed material, lack a core and therefore include the maximum amount of tightly packed feedstock. This results in substantial increases in the break strength of the granules with uniform homogeneous cross-sections.

Abstract: Mechanically strong, water-disintegrable agglomerates for use as a soil conditioner produced from cement kiln dust and other particulate calcium sources containing CaO or Ca(OH)2 and other calcium-containing compounds having the potential to be hydrated and a process for forming such agglomerates are disclosed. The process comprises combining the particulate calcium source and a water-soluble binder to produce agglomerates which are then subjected to controlled drying such that the dried agglomerates having a size ranging from −7 to +8 Tyler Standard Sieve Series exhibit an average green crush strength of at least about 2 pounds (about 0.9 kg).