The Three-Layer "Smart" Fertilizer: One Watering, Long-Term Care

For all plants, growth depends on two things: fertilizer and water. However, traditional agriculture faces a significant dilemma: a large portion of the applied chemical fertilizers is not absorbed by plants but is instead wasted into the environment. This not only represents a huge waste but also pollutes water and soil. Today, a new type of "smart" fertilizer offers hope for solving this problem. It is like a carefully designed "nutrient capsule" that can intelligently control the release of nutrients and lock in moisture like a miniature reservoir. The Dilemma of Traditional Fertilizers: Quick to Come, Quick to Go Traditional chemical fertilizers, such as NPK compound fertilizers, dissolve rapidly. Once applied to the soil, a heavy rain or a few rounds of irrigation can wash away a large amount of nutrients. Statistics show that in ordinary fertilizers, 40%-70% of nitrogen, 80%-90% of phosphorus, and 50%-70% of potassium cannot be effectively used by crops and are directly lost. This is like giving a thirsty person a large bucket of water; they only have time to take a few sips before most of it spills on the ground. It neither quenches thirst nor avoids waste and pollution. Three-Layer Structure: An "Intelligent" Design with Distinct Roles Inspired by "capsules" and "sponges," scientists have designed a three-layer controlled-release and water-retaining composite fertilizer. Core: The Nutrient Warehouse The innermost part is a standard water-soluble NPK fertilizer granule, storing the core nutrients needed for plant growth. Middle Layer: The Smart Valve (Chitosan Coating) The core is wrapped in a layer of natural material called "chitosan," derived from shrimp and crab shells, which is biodegradable. This membrane acts like an intelligent regulating valve, slowing down the dissolution rate of the inner fertilizer granule. It allows nutrients to be released slowly and continuously, synchronizing with the plant's growth needs. Outer layer: Micro-reservoirs (superabsorbent polymer) The outermost layer is made of a superabsorbent polymer material that can absorb dozens or even hundreds of times its own weight in water. In the soil, it acts like countless tiny reservoirs, securely holding irrigation water or rainwater, reducing water evaporation and deep percolation. When the soil dries out, it slowly releases the water back to the plant roots.

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