NZ615600B2 - Improvements in and relating to soil treatments - Google Patents
Improvements in and relating to soil treatments Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- NZ615600B2 NZ615600B2 NZ615600A NZ61560013A NZ615600B2 NZ 615600 B2 NZ615600 B2 NZ 615600B2 NZ 615600 A NZ615600 A NZ 615600A NZ 61560013 A NZ61560013 A NZ 61560013A NZ 615600 B2 NZ615600 B2 NZ 615600B2
- Authority
- NZ
- New Zealand
- Prior art keywords
- soil treatment
- component
- composition
- elemental sulphur
- treatment composition
- Prior art date
Links
- 239000002689 soil Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 248
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 207
- NINIDFKCEFEMDL-UHFFFAOYSA-N sulfur Chemical compound [S] NINIDFKCEFEMDL-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 141
- WCUXLLCKKVVCTQ-UHFFFAOYSA-M potassium chloride Chemical compound [Cl-].[K+] WCUXLLCKKVVCTQ-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 claims abstract description 134
- 239000001103 potassium chloride Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 130
- 235000011164 potassium chloride Nutrition 0.000 claims abstract description 130
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 43
- 239000011230 binding agent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 29
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 28
- 235000013619 trace mineral Nutrition 0.000 claims abstract description 23
- 239000002270 dispersing agent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 19
- 239000011573 trace mineral Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 19
- XSQUKJJJFZCRTK-UHFFFAOYSA-N urea Chemical compound NC(N)=O XSQUKJJJFZCRTK-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 18
- HWKQNAWCHQMZHK-UHFFFAOYSA-N Trolnitrate Chemical compound [O-][N+](=O)OCCN(CCO[N+]([O-])=O)CCO[N+]([O-])=O HWKQNAWCHQMZHK-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 12
- 239000000440 bentonite Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 12
- 229910000278 bentonite Inorganic materials 0.000 claims abstract description 12
- 235000008733 Citrus aurantifolia Nutrition 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 235000015450 Tilia cordata Nutrition 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 235000011941 Tilia x europaea Nutrition 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 239000004571 lime Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 239000002367 phosphate rock Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 10
- 239000004202 carbamide Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- VSIIXMUUUJUKCM-UHFFFAOYSA-D pentacalcium;fluoride;triphosphate Chemical compound [F-].[Ca+2].[Ca+2].[Ca+2].[Ca+2].[Ca+2].[O-]P([O-])([O-])=O.[O-]P([O-])([O-])=O.[O-]P([O-])([O-])=O VSIIXMUUUJUKCM-UHFFFAOYSA-D 0.000 claims abstract description 8
- 125000001477 organic nitrogen group Chemical group 0.000 claims abstract description 5
- 239000008187 granular material Substances 0.000 claims description 248
- 239000005864 Sulphur Substances 0.000 claims description 137
- 239000003337 fertilizer Substances 0.000 claims description 78
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 claims description 64
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 claims description 34
- IJGRMHOSHXDMSA-UHFFFAOYSA-N nitrogen Chemical compound N#N IJGRMHOSHXDMSA-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 30
- 235000015097 nutrients Nutrition 0.000 claims description 30
- 239000003795 chemical substances by application Substances 0.000 claims description 26
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 claims description 22
- 239000008188 pellet Substances 0.000 claims description 16
- 229910052757 nitrogen Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 15
- 238000000227 grinding Methods 0.000 claims description 13
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 claims description 12
- 239000000428 dust Substances 0.000 claims description 12
- 238000005755 formation reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 12
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 claims description 10
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 claims description 10
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000003921 oil Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- 235000019198 oils Nutrition 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000002360 preparation method Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000002156 mixing Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000011877 solvent mixture Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000007792 addition Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000003112 inhibitor Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000002401 inhibitory effect Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 235000015112 vegetable and seed oil Nutrition 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000008158 vegetable oil Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 108010046334 Urease Proteins 0.000 claims description 2
- 235000021323 fish oil Nutrition 0.000 claims 2
- 241000196324 Embryophyta Species 0.000 description 27
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 26
- 239000006185 dispersion Substances 0.000 description 16
- 238000005469 granulation Methods 0.000 description 9
- 230000003179 granulation Effects 0.000 description 9
- 230000001965 increased Effects 0.000 description 9
- QGZKDVFQNNGYKY-UHFFFAOYSA-N ammonia Chemical compound N QGZKDVFQNNGYKY-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 8
- OAICVXFJPJFONN-UHFFFAOYSA-N phosphorus Chemical compound [P] OAICVXFJPJFONN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 8
- 239000011574 phosphorus Substances 0.000 description 8
- 229910052698 phosphorus Inorganic materials 0.000 description 8
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 8
- 238000004642 transportation engineering Methods 0.000 description 8
- 238000004090 dissolution Methods 0.000 description 7
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 description 7
- QAOWNCQODCNURD-UHFFFAOYSA-L sulfate Chemical compound [O-]S([O-])(=O)=O QAOWNCQODCNURD-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 7
- 238000005054 agglomeration Methods 0.000 description 6
- 230000002776 aggregation Effects 0.000 description 6
- 238000001035 drying Methods 0.000 description 6
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 6
- GQPLMRYTRLFLPF-UHFFFAOYSA-N nitrous Oxide Chemical compound [O-][N+]#N GQPLMRYTRLFLPF-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 6
- ZLMJMSJWJFRBEC-UHFFFAOYSA-N potassium Chemical compound [K] ZLMJMSJWJFRBEC-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 6
- 239000011591 potassium Substances 0.000 description 6
- 229910052700 potassium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 6
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 description 5
- 229940072033 potash Drugs 0.000 description 5
- BWHMMNNQKKPAPP-UHFFFAOYSA-L potassium carbonate Substances [K+].[K+].[O-]C([O-])=O BWHMMNNQKKPAPP-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 5
- 235000015320 potassium carbonate Nutrition 0.000 description 5
- KWYUFKZDYYNOTN-UHFFFAOYSA-M potassium hydroxide Chemical compound [OH-].[K+] KWYUFKZDYYNOTN-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 5
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 5
- 210000003608 Feces Anatomy 0.000 description 4
- 238000005056 compaction Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000002950 deficient Effects 0.000 description 4
- XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N iron Chemical compound [Fe] XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 239000010871 livestock manure Substances 0.000 description 4
- 235000021073 macronutrients Nutrition 0.000 description 4
- 239000011785 micronutrient Substances 0.000 description 4
- 235000013369 micronutrients Nutrition 0.000 description 4
- 238000003892 spreading Methods 0.000 description 4
- NBIIXXVUZAFLBC-UHFFFAOYSA-K [O-]P([O-])([O-])=O Chemical compound [O-]P([O-])([O-])=O NBIIXXVUZAFLBC-UHFFFAOYSA-K 0.000 description 3
- 239000003570 air Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000002361 compost Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000003750 conditioning Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000002708 enhancing Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000002360 explosive Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000010419 fine particle Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000002386 leaching Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000000670 limiting Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000001272 nitrous oxide Substances 0.000 description 3
- 235000021049 nutrient content Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 239000010452 phosphate Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000002829 reduced Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000011593 sulfur Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229910052717 sulfur Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 241000894006 Bacteria Species 0.000 description 2
- 241001474374 Blennius Species 0.000 description 2
- 239000005996 Blood meal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 241001465754 Metazoa Species 0.000 description 2
- 241000607479 Yersinia pestis Species 0.000 description 2
- 230000002378 acidificating Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000002374 bone meal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229940036811 bone meal Drugs 0.000 description 2
- OYPRJOBELJOOCE-UHFFFAOYSA-N calcium Chemical compound [Ca] OYPRJOBELJOOCE-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000011575 calcium Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052791 calcium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000000969 carrier Substances 0.000 description 2
- 235000013339 cereals Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 239000004927 clay Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052570 clay Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 230000000052 comparative effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229910052802 copper Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N copper Chemical compound [Cu] RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000010949 copper Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000003111 delayed Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000001419 dependent Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000009472 formulation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 231100000206 health hazard Toxicity 0.000 description 2
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229910052742 iron Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- FYYHWMGAXLPEAU-UHFFFAOYSA-N magnesium Chemical compound [Mg] FYYHWMGAXLPEAU-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000011777 magnesium Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052749 magnesium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- PWHULOQIROXLJO-UHFFFAOYSA-N manganese Chemical compound [Mn] PWHULOQIROXLJO-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 229910052748 manganese Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000011572 manganese Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000011159 matrix material Substances 0.000 description 2
- ZOKXTWBITQBERF-UHFFFAOYSA-N molybdenum Chemical compound [Mo] ZOKXTWBITQBERF-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000011733 molybdenum Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052750 molybdenum Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 235000018343 nutrient deficiency Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 238000009304 pastoral farming Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000003415 peat Substances 0.000 description 2
- ABLZXFCXXLZCGV-UHFFFAOYSA-N phosphorous acid Chemical compound OP(O)=O ABLZXFCXXLZCGV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 230000000717 retained Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000002786 root growth Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000002002 slurry Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000011780 sodium chloride Substances 0.000 description 2
- FAPWRFPIFSIZLT-UHFFFAOYSA-M sodium chloride Chemical compound [Na+].[Cl-] FAPWRFPIFSIZLT-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 2
- 239000003516 soil conditioner Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000002459 sustained Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000002699 waste material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000001993 wax Substances 0.000 description 2
- -1 worm castings Substances 0.000 description 2
- HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N zinc Chemical compound [Zn] HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000011701 zinc Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052725 zinc Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 241000251468 Actinopterygii Species 0.000 description 1
- DVARTQFDIMZBAA-UHFFFAOYSA-O Ammonium nitrate Chemical compound [NH4+].[O-][N+]([O-])=O DVARTQFDIMZBAA-UHFFFAOYSA-O 0.000 description 1
- 241000219430 Betula pendula Species 0.000 description 1
- 229920000742 Cotton Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 108090000790 Enzymes Proteins 0.000 description 1
- 102000004190 Enzymes Human genes 0.000 description 1
- 210000003746 Feathers Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 235000019733 Fish meal Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 240000007842 Glycine max Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000010469 Glycine max Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 229940095686 Granule Product Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 238000009620 Haber process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 235000019738 Limestone Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 240000007594 Oryza sativa Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000007164 Oryza sativa Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000019482 Palm oil Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 241000282849 Ruminantia Species 0.000 description 1
- 241000736285 Sphagnum Species 0.000 description 1
- 244000269722 Thea sinensis Species 0.000 description 1
- 240000008529 Triticum aestivum Species 0.000 description 1
- 240000008042 Zea mays Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000002017 Zea mays subsp mays Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000010521 absorption reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012080 ambient air Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004458 analytical method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003190 augmentative Effects 0.000 description 1
- PPBAJDRXASKAGH-UHFFFAOYSA-O azanium;urea Chemical compound [NH4+].NC(N)=O PPBAJDRXASKAGH-UHFFFAOYSA-O 0.000 description 1
- 238000006065 biodegradation reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- ZOXJGFHDIHLPTG-UHFFFAOYSA-N boron Chemical compound [B] ZOXJGFHDIHLPTG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052796 boron Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- YYRMJZQKEFZXMX-UHFFFAOYSA-N calcium;phosphoric acid Chemical compound [Ca+2].OP(O)(O)=O.OP(O)(O)=O YYRMJZQKEFZXMX-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052799 carbon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000015556 catabolic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001010 compromised Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001276 controlling effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 1
- 235000005822 corn Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000005824 corn Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000000875 corresponding Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001066 destructive Effects 0.000 description 1
- 201000010099 disease Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000000284 extract Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004467 fishmeal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000013305 food Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000012055 fruits and vegetables Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000008202 granule composition Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000005431 greenhouse gas Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003673 groundwater Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002515 guano Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003306 harvesting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910052500 inorganic mineral Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 229920005610 lignin Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000006028 limestone Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003050 macronutrient Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000012054 meals Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000010755 mineral Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000011707 mineral Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005065 mining Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001483 mobilizing Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006011 modification reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 235000013379 molasses Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- NHNBFGGVMKEFGY-UHFFFAOYSA-N nitrate Chemical compound [O-][N+]([O-])=O NHNBFGGVMKEFGY-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 235000021232 nutrient availability Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000021048 nutrient requirements Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000016709 nutrition Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000006180 nutrition needs Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000003647 oxidation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007254 oxidation reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002540 palm oil Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000011148 porous material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000843 powder Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000002035 prolonged Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011241 protective layer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 108090000623 proteins and genes Proteins 0.000 description 1
- 102000004169 proteins and genes Human genes 0.000 description 1
- 238000011084 recovery Methods 0.000 description 1
- 235000009566 rice Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000005070 ripening Effects 0.000 description 1
- 150000003839 salts Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 239000010865 sewage Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000010902 straw Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000000346 sugar Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 125000001273 sulfonato group Chemical group [O-]S(*)(=O)=O 0.000 description 1
- 235000001508 sulfur Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000002426 superphosphate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000002588 toxic Effects 0.000 description 1
- 231100000331 toxic Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 150000003626 triacylglycerols Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 239000010455 vermiculite Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052902 vermiculite Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 235000019354 vermiculite Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000021307 wheat Nutrition 0.000 description 1
Abstract
Disclosed herein is a soil treatment composition in granular form comprising up to 60% by weight finely ground elemental sulfur and up to 80% by weight finely ground muriate of potash (potassium chloride), and methods of preparing said composition. In one embodiment, the composition further comprises a fluid such as water, an oil, or a wax. In one embodiment, the composition further comprises bentonite; lime; trace elements; urea; organic nitrogen; reactive phosphate rock; a binding agent; and/or a dispersing agent. es a fluid such as water, an oil, or a wax. In one embodiment, the composition further comprises bentonite; lime; trace elements; urea; organic nitrogen; reactive phosphate rock; a binding agent; and/or a dispersing agent.
Description
Patents Form No. 5
Fee No. 4: $250.00
IPSPEC Ref: 125-4139NZ
PATENTS ACT 1953
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
IMPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING TO SOIL TREATMENTS
After NZ Patent Appln No. 602475
Dated: 17 September 2012
I, ROBERT HAMILTON HALL, a New Zealand citizen, of 2155 State Highway 2,
RD6, Te Puke, New Zealand,
do hereby declare the invention for which I/we pray that a patent may be granted to me and
the method by which it is to be performed, to be particularly described in and by the
following statement :
IMPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING TO SOIL TREATMENTS
Technical Field
This invention relates to improvements in and relating to soil treatments.
In particular, this invention is directed to providing a substantially improved fertiliser
composition. In addition, the composition is further provided in a granular form for ease of
application. Said fertiliser composition includes finely ground elemental sulphur. Further, the
composition also includes a binding agent. The binding agent is selected such that whether the
composition is applied solely as an elemental sulphur composition in conjunction with the
binding agent or is applied as a composition including elemental sulphur and binding agent
along with other active agents, including nitrogen and/or including trace elements and/or soil
conditioners, the binding agent also acts as a dispersant and provides additional agronomic
benefit to the composition.
It is envisaged the invention will be applicable to any situation, for example agricultural,
horticultural, forestry, commercial, industrial or domestic situations where soil treatments are
required. However, the invention may have applications outside this field.
Background Art
In any agricultural, horticultural, forestry, commercial, industrial or domestic situation where at
least optimal growth of vegetation is required or desired a number of factors interplay. Not the
least of such factors is soil type/structure and nutrient availability. Soil structure has a major
influence on water and air movement, biological activity, root growth, seedling emergence and
plant retention. Soil structure is determined by how individual soil granules clump and thus the
arrangement of soil pores between them.
Soils also differ in nutrient profile. For example, most soils in South Africa are poor in
phosphorus and do not contain enough to sustain normal plant growth. Phosphorus deficiencies
by extension therefore occur in ruminants grazing on phosphorus-deficient pastures. By
comparison, soils in Western Australia are very old, highly weathered and deficient in many of
the major nutrients and trace elements zinc, copper, manganese, iron and molybdenum.
Accordingly, fertilisers are routinely applied to such soils to achieve the nutrient profile desired
to sustain plant growth for harvest and/or to provide nutrients to grazing stock animals.
Fertilisers are nutritional compounds given to plants to promote growth. Fertilisers typically
provide macro and/or micronutrients in varying proportions. Those required in large quantities
for plant growth include nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur, calcium and magnesium
(macro-plant-nutrients), and those required in much smaller quantities include copper, zinc,
manganese, boron, iron and molybdenum (micronutrients). The most commonly available
fertilisers provide the three major macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium). For
example, an 18−51−20 NPK fertiliser would contain by weight, 18% elemental nitrogen (N),
22% elemental phosphorus (P) and 16% elemental potassium (K).
Fertilisers may be applied as organic or inorganic fertilisers. Organic fertilisers include manure,
slurry, worm castings, peat, seaweed, sewage, guano, green manure crops, compost, blood
meal, bone meal, seaweed extracts, natural enzyme digested proteins, fish meal, and feather
meal.
Organic fertilisers may be used for their beneficial properties as soil conditioners due to their
ability to improve soil quality. Some examples include organically sourced conditioners such as
bone meal, peat, coffee grounds, compost, coir, manure, straw, vermiculite, sulfur, lime, blood
meal, compost tea, hydroabsorbant polymers and sphagnum moss, bentonite and so forth.
Soil conditioners improve soil structure, being particularly valuable in compacted soils, clay
soils, slow-draining soils and so forth where root growth may be compromised, and the ability
of plants to take up nutrients and water may be impacted. Soil conditioners may be used to
improve water retention in dry, coarse, sandy, soils which are not holding water well, or
improve drainage in compacted soils; and they can be added to adjust the pH of the soil to meet
the needs of specific plants or to make highly acidic or alkaline soils more usable, or to
compensate the pH in soils where other materials are added that may upset the natural pH
balance.
Carbon, nitrogen, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, may be augmented by such additions.
Beneficial bacteria may also be seeded into the soil.
Naturally occurring minerals such as mine rock phosphate, sulfate of potash and limestone may
also be considered to be organic fertilisers. A range of manufactured fertilisers are also
available For example, nitrogen fertiliser is often synthesized using the Haber-Bosch process,
which produces ammonia. This ammonia is applied directly to the soil or used to produce other
compounds, notably ammonium nitrate and urea, both dry, concentrated products that may be
used as fertiliser materials or mixed with water to form a concentrated liquid nitrogen fertiliser.
Ammonia can also be used in the Odda Process in combination with rock phosphate and
potassium to produce compound NPK fertilisers.
Fertilisers may be water-soluble (instant release) or relatively insoluble
(controlled/sustained/timed release).
However, whilst fertilisers may be applied to meet nutritional needs of plants, they are less
likely to be tailor-made in respect of particle distribution to suit the soils to which they are
applied. Further, whilst various applications may be tailored with respect to the dispersal as
fast, slow, medium release products over time, they are typically less tailored in respect of
particle distribution to suit climatic conditions as required.
This can lead to the problem of over-fertilisation which is primarily associated with the use of
artificial fertilisers and results from the massive quantities applied and the destructive nature of
chemical fertilisers on soil nutrient holding structures. The high solubilities of chemical
fertilisers also exacerbate their tendency to degrade ecosystems.
There are also problems associated with storage and application of some soil treatment products
and fertilisers. For example, fine elemental sulphur is both explosive and a health hazard.
Nitrogen fertilisers in some weather or soil conditions can cause emissions of the greenhouse
gas, nitrous oxide (N2O). Ammonia gas (NH3) may be emitted following application of
inorganic fertilisers, or manure or slurry; and ammonia can also increase soil acidity (lowering
of soil pH). Excessive nitrogen fertiliser applications can also lead to pest problems by
increasing the birth rate, longevity and overall fitness of certain pests. In addition, while
nitrogen is an important agronomic nutrient, much of the unused nitrogen ends up in
waterways.
Elemental sulphur is also an important agronomic nutrient; although, fine elemental sulphur is
required to be agglomerated in order to be applied. Similarly however, too much sulphur has
less beneficial effects when, for example, it is in the form of soluble sulphate that ends up in
runoff into waterways polluting local waterways and groundwater each year. The use of
elemental sulphur means that the run-off from sulphate into waterways is able to be reduced by
between 48-90%.
Phosphorus is essential for the division of cells at the growth points of the plant roots
underground, as well as at the growth points of plants above the ground. If the plants take up
too little phosphorous, they grow slowly and remain small, and the ripening of especially grain
seeds is slowed down. Too much phosphorous in the soil or too much of it added by way of
fertiliser is not really harmful for plant growth, but it is a waste of money.
Not only sulphate, but also phosphate (both from imported fertilisers) represent a significant
economic loss for farmers and New Zealand as a whole with both being applied to the extent
that the lost nutrients in runoff ultimately pollute and damage the environment.
Muriate of Potash (MOP) is also an important agronomic nutrient and typically contains 50 -
60% potash. Muriate of Potash is also called Potassium Chloride, chemically KCl, yet having a
composition of KCl:NaCl (95:5 or higher). In its pure state, MOP is a white crystalline solid
but MOP varies in colour from pink/brown or red to white depending on the mining and
recovery process used. Commercially, MOP is available in fine, coarse and granular grades.
Where soils needs MOP to facilitate or improve vegetative growth, then a potentially realisable
advantage of using this agent is that it is able to be added to the soil treatment composition of
the present invention and as a result of its source and production an application may be made to
have the soil treatment composition designated as organic.
Muriate of Potash (MOP) is produced in a granulated and in a non-granulated form (MOP
‘fines’). The majority is then dry blended with other fertilisers to make a multi-nutrient
fertiliser. For example:
Superphosphate
Sulphate of Ammonia
Urea .
Coarser MOP blends well with N-P compounds to form NPK-blended multi-nutrient fertilisers.
Whilst is possible to over-apply organic fertilisers; their nutrient content, their solubility and
their release rates are typically much lower than chemical fertilisers. By their nature, most
organic fertilisers also provide increased physical and biological storage mechanisms to soils,
which tend to mitigate their risks. However, again the application of such fertilisers is not
typically geared to being tailored made for specific soil types.
For these reasons, it is important to know the soil type, the nutrient content of the soil and
nutrient requirements of the crop, so that desired outcomes can be carefully balanced with the
application of soil conditioning and/or fertiliser products. By careful monitoring of soil,
climatic conditions and crop requirements, wastage of expensive fertilisers and potential costs
of cleaning up any pollution created can be avoided.
While the present invention has a number of potentially realisable applications, it is in relation
to problems associated with existing soil treatment and fertilising systems that the present
invention was developed. More specifically, it was with regard to the issues of providing a
treatment system more appropriately tailored to specifically suit the specific application, soil
conditions and climatic conditions, including temperature. It was also developed with safety
and health issues typically associated with such systems, that the present invention was
developed. Finally, it was having regard to the need to provide a treatment system that would
easily disperse in the soil, provide the desired effect, had sufficient compressive strength to
ensure that the product did not break-up during storage, transport and handling and that would
minimise waste of product when applied.
It would be useful therefore, to have a soil treatment system that:
1. Could be tailor-made to specifically suit the specific application, soil conditions and
climatic conditions including temperature; and
2. Considered and improved on safety and health issues of existing systems; and
3. Was effective at mobilising nutrients and/or soil enhancing components so that good plant
growth could be achieved with lower nutrient densities; and
4. Effected less wastage of nutrients and/or soil enhancing components through run-off, air
dispersal and so forth; and
. Minimised the build-up of potentially toxic products in soils and plants; and
6. Released nutrients at a determined, more consistent rate, helping to avoid boom- and-bust
patterns; and
7. Helped, where applicable, to retain soil moisture, reducing the stress to plants and soil
structures due to temporary moisture stress; and
8. Contributed where appropriate to improving the soil structure; and
9. Minimised the possibility of "burning" plants with concentrated chemicals due to an over-
supply of some nutrients, or nutrients in specific forms; and
. Provided a more cost effective alternative to present systems employed; including costs of
handling, transportation and application costs, and
11. Provided a consistent product, so that accurate application of nutrients to match soil type
and plant production was possible; and
12. Would be easy to use.
It would therefore be advantageous to have an invention that offered at least some, if not all, of
the potential advantages of the above proposed treatment system. It is therefore an object of the
present invention to consider the above problems and provide at least one solution which
addresses a plurality of these problems.
It is another object of the present invention to at least provide the public with a useful choice or
alternative system.
Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing
description which is given by way of example only.
It should be appreciated that variations to the described embodiments are possible and would
fall within the scope of the present invention.
Disclosure of Invention
Farmers apply nitrogen to induce vegetative growth in paddocks for stock animals.
Horticultural cropping also requires regular fertiliser applications to sustain healthy and viable
crop harvests. However, induced growth bursts may also be achieved by the application of
elemental sulphur.
Muriate of Potash (MOP) is agronomically valuable, not only in its own right, but also because
it is able to be used to bind fine elemental sulphur that typically could not otherwise be
applied to soils unless agglomerated in some way.
A fertiliser composition incorporating fine elemental sulphur with MOP offers a valuable
addition to pasture and crops as a fine sulphur induced growth burst may be substantially
achieved twice a year. Application of MOP is also required twice a year. The use of MOP and
elemental sulphur is substantially intertwined.
The present invention is directed to using improved grinding and granular compaction
techniques to effect production of a fine elemental sulphur/MOP fertiliser.
The elemental sulphur is preferably finely ground to improve its “availability” to plants.
The elemental sulphur is preferably combined with at least one other agent.
The at least one other agent preferably operates as a binding agent. The at least one other agent
also preferably operates as a dispersing agent.
The at least one other agent, in terms of a binding agent and a dispersing agent, is preferably
Muriate of Potash.
The resultant composition of finely ground elemental sulphur and the at least one other agent
preferably provides a resultant composition capable of being manufactured in granular form.
The present invention is based on using a grinding technique to achieve finely ground
elemental sulphur particles, prior to compaction into a granular form.
Preferably, Murate of Potash (MOP) will be used as a binding agent in the granule compaction
process. MOP has significant agronomic value in its own right.
However, bentonite is also suitable as a binding agent and has the added benefit of being
alkaline as may be required in some soils. In such situations, the bentonite may be included
with the elemental sulphur and MOP composition. The bentonite may be added in conjunction
with MOP to assist acidic soils. Alternately, where potassium is not required the sulphur
bentonite mix may be used with or without other agents.
Preferably, the present invention also includes additional agents in relation to the composition
production, as may be required to achieve a preferred and/or predetermined fertiliser for
application to specific soils.
Preferably, the composition also includes trace elements as further agents that may be
combined with the elemental sulphur/MOP composition.
Preferably, the trace elements, provide other benefits to the composition, and/or may be used to
bind the various components in the composition together to contribute to the formation of the
fertiliser in a granular form.
To the applicant’s knowledge, the application of Muriate of Potash (MOP) as a binding
agent/dispersing agent for use in elemental sulphur fertiliser granules has not been known in the
prior art. In addition, to the applicant’s knowledge, the application of Muriate of Potash (MOP)
as a binding agent/dispersing agent in high-pressure or low pressure formed granular fertiliser
products has not been known in the prior art.
Preferably, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the finely ground
fertiliser composition includes MOP, prepared elemental sulphur and a fluid.
Elemental sulphur is a valuable plant nutrient often required due to sulphur deficient soils.
Preferably the fluid provides moisture to the composition.
Preferably the fluid is water. However, other fluids may be used as suitability is identified. For
example, the moisture may be applied via the use of one or a combination of oils, waxes and so
forth.
In accordance with one embodiment the component contribution in the fertiliser composition
includes on a percentage weight:weight basis:
Murate of Potash (MOP) 77%
Sulphur (elemental) 23%
Plus the potential inclusion of:
Fluid; and
Other - where “other” includes trace elements, components that provide other benefits to the
composition, and/or are used to bind the various components in the composition together to
contribute to the formation of the fertiliser in a granular form. Any variations to the percentages
of the component contributions in the fertiliser composition are envisaged to fall within the
scope of the present invention.
It is noted the applicant’s inventions include the options of a Reactive Phosphate Rock/MOP
composition and also a Reactive Phosphate Rock/Elemental sulphur/MOP composition.
However, the current invention relates primarily to a dedicated elemental sulphur/MOP
composition. Nevertheless, additional components may be included to achieve a fertiliser
tailored for specific situations, nutrient deficiencies, etc. It is noted also that other active/MOP
combinations may be envisaged and fall within the scope of the present invention, as may the
use of MOP in combination with more than one other active.
Preferably the fertiliser product so produced is applied in a granular form. The final granule
will however be dependent on the method of producing the granules. For example, the finer the
grind of the components, the easier it may be to form the granules. However, there may need to
be consideration of other aspects to ensure the desired granule crush strength and rate at which
the granule dissolves, is achieved. The coarseness of the grind may improve the strength of the
granule, but may not be desirable for some soils. So, the granules are preferably formed taking
into account the soils, the climate, the period of time the components are desired to be released,
and so forth. Therefore a number of variations are possible within the ambit of the present
invention.
Preferably, the granule or pellet size for the granular form of the composition is 2 - 8
millimeters.
Preferably the pellet size for the granular form of the fertiliser composition is 6 millimeter-
sized pellets.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the preferred components in the
preferred compositions are finely ground to particles sizes which benefit the predetermined and
desired availability of the fertiliser components in the composition when the granular form is
applied to soils.
Preferably, in accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the fertiliser
composition is prepared via the following steps:
a) The MOP is preferably inter-ground with the elemental sulphur to produce a thorough
mix having preferred particle sizes.
b) Fluid may be added to the mix to improve the dispersion of MOP.
c) Pressure is then applied by means of a press to produce stable, dust free granules.
Trace elements and/or other actives may also be added to the mixture prior to granule
formation, as required to achieve the preferred fertiliser composition. The additional actives
and/or trace elements may be added at the time the MOP and elemental sulphur are inter-
ground.
Other components may be applied to the formed granules as a coating, as required to achieve
the preferred fertiliser composition. Such other actives may include lime, urea, organic
nitrogen, Reactive Phosphate Rock, and so forth.
Preferably, in accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the fertiliser
composition is prepared via the following steps:
a) The MOP is preferably ground to effect preferred particle sizes.
b) The elemental sulphur is preferably ground to effect preferred particle sizes.
c) The MOP and elemental sulphur having preferred particle sizes, are thoroughly mixed
together.
d) Fluid may be added to the mix to improve the dispersion of MOP.
e) Pressure is then applied by means of a press to produce stable, dust free granules.
Again, trace elements and/or other actives may also similarly be added to the mixture prior to
granule formation, as required to achieve the preferred fertiliser composition. The additional
actives and/or trace elements may be added at any time during or after the MOP and elemental
sulphur are ground and/or mixed together.
Preferably, the grinding process results in the components having a preferred particle size
range.
Other components may be applied to the formed granules as a coating, as required to achieve
the preferred fertiliser composition. For example, components such as urea, lime, a urease, a
nitrogen inhibitor, and so forth, may be applied as a coating to the granules, as may be required
for certain applications.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the MOP may optionally be
dispersed in the fluid and then added to the dry granule components.
It is preferable that the MOP particles are interspersed with and between the elemental sulphur
particles.
Preferably, the fluid is water; although, any other fluid identified as suitable for use or adapted
for use with the present invention may be used. As previously mentioned other sources of
moisture may be achieved by using fluid sources including oils, waxes.
The pressure applied may be via use of known high pressure or low pressure techniques, or via
means developed for use with the invention. Examples of available pressure means includes the
use of a high pressure roller pellet press, double roll compactor or other pressure means, as
required to produce stable, dust free granules.
Preferably, high pressure is applied by means of a roller pellet press to produce stable, dust free
granules. However, other suitable high pressure granulating/pelletising techniques may be used
or adapted for use with the present invention.
Alternatively, a low pressure process may be used. Such low pressure processes include pan
granulation, low pressure tumble type agglomeration and so forth. However, other suitable low
pressure granulating/pelletising techniques may be used or adapted for use with the present
invention.
The prepared granules are preferably dried or cooled to improve the hardness of the
granules/pellets, depending on the pelletising/granulation technique employed.
Using high pressure techniques contributes to producing harder pellets/granules which are
drier. Granules formed by high pressure need only ambient air cooling for hardening to occur
due the temperature at which the pellets leave the press (approx. 60˚C).
Granules formed by low pressure techniques preferably need to be dried either by drying in
sunshine or, on a fluid bed or, via any other suitable drying means.
It is to be noted that MOP is a salt and recrystallises when it dries. This characteristic imparts
strength to the fertiliser granule.
MOP is preferably also used as it is highly water-soluble and rapidly dissolves when coming
into contact with moisture. This characteristic imparts excellent dispersing ability to the
granules when applied.
Granules produced at low pressure via the present invention are adapted to disperse in water at
predetermined time frames. For example, they may preferably disperse in water in 2-3 seconds,
in up to 10 hours or, may take up to 48 hours to fully disperse.
Granules formed at high pressure via the present invention are also adapted to disperse in water
at predetermined time frames. For example, they may preferably disperse in water in less than
10 minutes, in up to 24 hours, or may take up to 72 hours to fully disperse.
Preferably the pellets/granules produced are stable, and dust free. This is advantageous when
storing, transporting and applying the fertiliser granules. The method of manufacture of the
granules is relevant to achieving this.
As a result of the method of pellitising/granulation used, preferably the granules have a
preferred crush strength for an elemental sulphur/MOP granule of between 1 – 10 kg. However,
the method of preparation of the granule will determine the crush strength required for any
particular application.
MOP has significant agronomic value in and of itself and often needs to be applied. The use of
MOP therefore provides potentially realisable advantages to the present invention, as other
dispersants commonly used in fertiliser granules typically have no agronomic value in
themselves. For example: bentonite clays, lignin sulphonates. However, MOP contains
potassium in a water-soluble form and potash is important for agriculture because it improves
water retention, yield, nutrient value, taste, colour, texture and disease resistance of food crops.
It has wide application to fruit and vegetables, rice, wheat and other grains, sugar, corn,
soybeans, palm oil and cotton, all of which benefit from the nutrient’s quality enhancing
properties.
This invention is directed to provide a soil treatment system. The soil treatment system is
preferably directed to improving soil condition and/or soil-nutrient availability for plants. The
term treatment as used in this specification typically will involve a knowledge of the condition
of the soil preferably via prior analysis and involve administration to the soil, via one or a
regimen of applications, of particular preferred composition which aids in improving at least
the soil condition (including structure) and/or soil nutrient content.
Preferably, the soil treatment system is provided in granule form for application to soils. For the
purpose of the present invention the term granule shall mean any small blocks of molded and/or
compressed material and/or otherwise formed and shall include varyingly shaped and sized
pellets, fragments, briquettes and so forth. The use of the term granule should therefore not be
seen as limiting this invention. Prills may also be formed subject to use of the appropriate
technique.
Preferably, the granule is able to be adapted to be specifically tailor-made in respect of the
particle distribution of its components to suit various applications, soil and climatic conditions
(including temperature) as required. The granule may have varying composition depending on
the components of the granule and the application it is designed for.
Preferably, the granule is able to be adapted to be specifically tailor-made in respect of particle
size and/or surface area of its components to suit various applications, soil and climatic
conditions (including temperature) as required. The granule may have varying particle sizes
within its composition depending on the components of the granule and the application it is
designed for.
Preferably, the particle size is optimised by fine-grinding and classification to suit differing soil
conditions and the purpose for which it is being used.
Preferably, the granule components are such that the granule components are selected to be
abled to be tailor made to suit specific soil types in particular countries and for particular soil
types in particular regions within said countries.
Preferably, the granule, following application, is required to make the components of the
granule available within or on the soil. To achieve this, the granule preferably disperses at a
preferred rate.
Preferably the dispersion of the granule enables the components of the granule to be available.
However, the individual components of the granule may vary in the rate at which each will be
directly available for the specific need. For example one component may be immediately
available for use – whether as a nutrient or soil conditioner; whilst others may be released in the
soil over time, or at different rates, or with the onset of particular climatic or soil
temperature/conditions as required.
In some embodiments of the invention, the granule may be prepared to enable either or both
immediate dispersion of the granule and immediate release of the granule components into or
onto the soil. In other embodiments, the granule may be prepared to enable delayed dispersion
of the granule and controlled release of any or all of the granule components over time, or
following a set period after application of the granules, or in preferred conditions.
In yet further embodiments, the granule may be prepared to enable immediate dispersion of the
granule and then controlled release of any or all of the granule components over time, or
following a set period after application of the granules, or in preferred conditions. For example,
in some embodiments of the present invention, the granules may be coated to delay dispersion
of the granule per se or delay release of a specific component. In other embodiments, the
granule may be formulated to disperse in water within a few minutes yet delay release of a
component. For example, coating the granules with a nitrogen inhibitor can control the release
of urea if applied as part of the soil treatment within the granule, thereby reducing leaching of
nitrate and volatilisation of nitrous oxide and ammonia. In this case, the granule is simply
dispersing, but it should be appreciated the availability of the particular nutrient component is
then determined by the specific solubility of that individual nutrient component.
Pressing methods are preferably applied in the formation of the granule form of the product.
Any suitable press method may be developed or adapted for use in achieving the present
invention.
Preferably however, the granule does not break-up during storage, transportation and
application. To achieve this, the method of manufacture is directed to producing a granule
having a preferred compressive strength (or crush-strength). The compressive strength is
directed to ensure that the granule which results is less likely to breakdown during handling,
transportation or application.
Preferably, the granules are uniform in size. The uniform sized granules contribute to more
accurate spreading. However, the granules may be varyingly shaped.
The granules may be colour coded to ensure the correct formulation is applied to a particular
treatment site, for a particular end result.
It is important to produce granules with optimum storage, handling and application
characteristics under a full range of conditions.
The following techniques may be used to achieve this, by:
a) Minimising the surface area of the granules - by producing smooth surfaced granules.
Granules produced by various means can typically have rough surfaces and therefore a
higher overall surface area. A pellet press can be used to produce granules with smooth
sides and clean-cut ends. Briquettes are an example of granules produced which are
typically smooth on all sides. Often the compression stage can lead to a sheen, often
noticeable on briquette-type granules.
b) Minimising the bulk surface area. The overall surface area of the bulk fertiliser granules
can be reduced by producing larger sized granules.
c) Minimising the amount of moisture present in the granule. This will especially mitigate
problems encountered due to moisture absorption under high humidity conditions.
d) Producing harder granules. Granules produced under higher pressure will be harder and
have better handling characteristics.
e) Post-production heating of the granules. Such heating can be applied to produce a
hardened surface. This may also further reduce retained/absorbed moisture following
production of the granules.
f) Coating of granules with lime powder can be undertaken.
g) Storage of granules in preferred conditions for a preferred period of time.
It may be that such techniques are employed to also affect the dispersion rate of the granules.
For example, newly produced granules may disperse more quickly than granules which have
been stored for a period of time before application onto the soils – whether such changes are
effected by further drying of stored granules, changes in pH over time or other such factors.
RPR when ground and classified to a desired particle size distribution provides an excellent
controlled-release phosphate source.
An important factor which determines the availability of elemental sulphur is fineness of
particle size relevant to the soil type it is applied to. The present invention includes the fine
grinding of elemental sulphur (and/or any other relevant active applied as a fertiliser
component) to preferred particle sizes. There is however a limit on how fine any active (and
elemental sulphur in particular) is able to be ground because of transportation and usability
constraints. Accurate spreading of finely ground elemental sulphur, or any other active, is also
difficult due to the drifting of fine particles. Granulation of fine materials overcomes these
practical problems enabling a much finer ground active component – such as the elemental
sulphur - to be transported and applied. Granulation of the product provides an advantage in
reducing dust problems associated with finely ground actives such as and including elemental
sulphur.
To improve handling or application of materials so finely ground, they must be granulated or
mixed with a fluid.
In accordance with the present invention, two granulation processes are described, although
other known pressing methods can be used. In some other embodiments, sheets may be formed
by means of a double-roll chinsolator applying approximately 2000kg of pressure. The pressed
sheets are then broken up by means of a rotating finger type device to produce 0.2-8mm long
granules. Or, pellets are formed by means of a double-roll pressure pelletiser device applying
approximately 2000kg of pressure to produce granules 1-5mm long. The granules may be
various shapes. Uniform-sized granules have better spread characteristics than a non-granulated
product. This helps ensure more accurate spreading.
The two key criteria for evaluating a fertiliser granule are crushing strength and water
dispersion. The first relates to the ability to produce a dust-free product the second ensures that
the phosphate and sulphur are quickly made available in the soil. Crush strength gives an
indication of the strength characteristics of fertiliser granules. Granule strength plays an
important role in the storage, transportation and application of granular fertilisers.
As the pressure at which the granules are formed increases (from 500 to 2000kg) so does the
crush strength of the granules (for various granule compositions). By controlling the pressure at
which granules are formed it is possible to produce a granule with the desired strength
characteristics.
According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for maximizing the
availability of at least one soil treatment composition, said soil treatment composition
containing at least one active component, said method including the steps of:
a) Selecting the soil treatment components required; and
b) Preparing said components in dried form, said components being ground to a preferred
particle size; and
c) Mixing said components together; and
d) Adding a preferred quantity of fluid to the mixed components; and
e) Applying pressure to a quantity of said component-solvent mixture to form granules of the
composition; and
said method characterised by the particle sizes of the components being specifically targeted for
use with a particular soil type and/or treatment requirement.
According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for maximizing the
availability of at least one soil treatment composition, said soil treatment composition
containing at least one active component, said method including the steps of:
a) Selecting the soil treatment components required; and
b) Preparing said components in dried form; and
c) Mixing said components together, said components being ground to a preferred particle
size; and
d) Adding a preferred quantity of fluid to the mixed components; and
e) Applying pressure to a quantity of said component-solvent mixture to form granules of the
composition; and
said method characterised by the particle sizes of the components being specifically targeted for
use with a particular soil type and/or treatment requirement.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method, substantially
as described above, wherein the fluid is mixed with one of the selective actives and added to
the remaining active(s) to facilitate improved intimate contact between the particles of the
respective actives.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method, substantially
as described above, wherein an optional dispersion and/or binding agent is added to the
component mix.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method, substantially
as described above, wherein at least one of the active components also acts as dispersion and/or
binding agent.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method, substantially
as described above, wherein the fluid includes at least water. However, other fluids, such as oils
and so forth may be used (including a fish, or a vegetable oil – such as a triglyceride).
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for maximizing
the availability of at least one soil treatment composition via prolonged release of the
components on to and/or into the soil, said method including the step of: grinding the
components to achieve a preferred particle size, said particle size being adapted to the soil type
and requirement and providing an increased surface area to improve availability of the
component in to or onto the soil.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method substantially as
described above achieved via coating of the granule to effect delayed release of the components
over a period of time after introduction of the granule on to or into the soil.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment
composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein the delay in
release of the components of the granule is accomplished by encapsulating the granule within a
dissolvable or degradable protective layer.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment
composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein a quantity of the
components of the granule is released substantially continuously, once release is initiated, for
the intended life of the granule.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment
composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein there is provided
an initial boosted release rate of components from the granule following introduction of the
granule on to or into the soil.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment
composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein there is provided
at least a second boosted release rate of components from the granule following introduction of
the granule on to or into the soil.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment
composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein the interval
between the initial and second boosted release rates corresponds to a predetermined ideal
period between release and action of the first component and release and action of a second
component.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment
composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein a boosted release
rate of the components of the granule is accomplished by providing a secondary component
having different release rate characteristics than the first component.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment
composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein a boosted release
rate of the components is accomplished by providing one component having an exposed surface
area greater than other component(s) in the granule.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment
composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein one component
operates as a carrier matrix system through which at least a second component is dispersed.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment
composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein the carrier
matrix component dissolves when exposed to the environment into which it is introduced, to
expose at least one other component in a time release manner.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment
composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein the granule, in
its entirety, is substantially biodegradable within the soil treatment environment to which it is
introduced.
A soil treatment composition in granular form, said granules have a mechanical resistance,
dimensions and weights being appropriate for the distribution and the mechanical application
on the ground and in the ground, the granules being characterised in that they include finely
ground particulate components.
A soil treatment composition in granular form characterised in that the dimension of fine
particles do not exceed a preferred dimension as required.
A method of preparing a granular soil treatment composition, wherein the particles of the soil
treatment components are mixed together with an agent included in an effective proportion to
bind the particles in the form of granules having dimensions and weights appropriate for a
mechanical application.
The granules may be applied via aerial top-dressing, mechanical spreaders, manually.
One aspect of the present invention is to therefore provide a fertiliser granule, said granule
including one or more of a binding agent, a dispersing agent and optimum amounts of
particulate plant nutrients which can be released in a timely fashion to the soil to achieve rapid
availability for plants, said granule being characterised by said particles being sized for
optimum benefit having regard to the soils type, different climatic conditions and the different
plant nutrient release rates required.
In the present example, it may also be appreciated that fine elemental sulphur is both explosive
and a health hazard. The granules of the present invention which may include elemental sulphur
are dust-free. Therefore, the granules are able to be stored, transported and applied with little
risk of hazardous sulphur dust being released.
In addition, the granule form avoids the limitations of traditional mixed fertilisers which are in
powdered or loose form. Such fertilisers are typically transported at some stage. The vibrations
generated during transportation can cause the different component nutrients to separate out due
to their varying densities.
When the fertiliser is then applied there is the potential for uneven distribution of the
components of the fertiliser and so some areas may remain or may result in being more
deficient in a particular component when compared to another.
It will therefore be appreciated that the invention broadly consists in the parts, elements and
features described in this specification, and is deemed to include any equivalents known in the
art which, if substituted for the prescribed integers, would not materially alter the substance of
the invention.
Variations to the invention may be desirable depending on the applications with which it is to
be used. Regard would of course be had to effecting the desired concentrations or volume to
volume ratios of the components of the granule, the various components of the granules, the
dimensions of the granule, the dissolution rates, the method of application of the granules and
so forth as required to effect the desired outcome.
Whilst some varying embodiments of the present invention have been described above and are
to be yet exampled, it should further be appreciated different embodiments, uses, and
applications of the present invention also exist.
Further embodiments of the present invention will now be given by way of example only, to
help better describe and define the present invention. However, describing the specified
embodiments should not be seen as limiting the scope of this invention.
Brief Description of Drawings
Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description,
given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a table illustrating the granule strength and dissolution results of 4mm
granules of the treatment composition including finely ground elemental sulphur
and MOP prepared using a high pressure press method, in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention; and
Figure 2 is a table illustrating the granule strength and dissolution results of 4mm
granules of the treatment composition including finely ground elemental sulphur
and MOP prepared using a high pressure press method, in accordance with
another embodiment of the present invention; and
Figure 3 is a table illustrating the granule strength and dissolution results of an
agglomeration of the treatment composition including finely ground elemental
sulphur and MOP, prepared under low pressure, in accordance with another
embodiment of the present invention; and
Figure 4 is a table illustrating the comparative granule strength and dissolution results of
an agglomeration of the treatment composition including finely ground
elemental sulphur and MOP, prepared via different methods, in accordance with
another embodiment of the present invention; and
Figure 5 is a table illustrating the comparative granule strength and dissolution results of
an agglomeration of the treatment composition including finely ground
elemental sulphur, MOP and RPR, prepared via different methods, in
accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
Best Modes for Carrying Out the Invention
With reference to the present invention by example only, there is provided a soil treatment
system. The soil treatment system is adapted to include various components desirable in the
conditioning or treatment of soils.
The soil treatment composition preferably is comprised of components having specific particle
size and surface area. Finely ground elemental sulphur is a said component, along with Muriate
of Potash operating as a dispersant and binding agent. Other plant nutrients, soil conditioning
materials and/or trace elements may also be included collectively or operate alone in the soil
treatment composition in conjunction with the MOP.
The granular form is prepared via suitable high pressure granulating/pelletising techniques.
Alternatively, a low pressure process may be used. Such low pressure processes include pan
granulation, low pressure tumble type agglomeration.
The soil treatment composition is prepared in an agglomerated form, or a granular form for
application on to or in to soils. It should be appreciated that the form includes granules that may
be varyingly shaped and sized, and so forth as desired.
The granule is preferably able to easily disperse over preferred time periods when applied to the
soil and yet have sufficient compressive strength to ensure that the granule does not break-up
during storage, transport and application.
The granule product includes any combination of the following features:
a) Is a controlled release, long life granule formulated for a specific soil type.
b) Is comprised of components having one or more of a preferred particle size, preferred
particle distribution, preferred particle surface area.
c) Includes component(s) directed to a specific treatment, specific soil type, specific climatic
conditions.
d) Includes a component that facilitates dispersal of the granule in water.
e) Includes a component contributing to the binding of the components.
f) Includes a component that facilitates rapid release of at least one other component from the
granule.
g) Is uniform in size.
h) Is dust free for improved handling, spreading, transportation and safety.
i) Is colour coded to ensure correct formulation application to particular soil types.
j) Is an improvement on products prone to leaching.
k) Granules are not easily separated during a mix.
l) Fast acting for rapid results – such as rapid plant availability of nutrients.
m) A product which is adapted to address some environmental concerns.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
The invention provides a both a soil treatment composition and a composition prepared as a
granular fertiliser with the individual components finely ground to ensure a sustained release in
the soil.
One example of the composition based on the components on a percentage weight:weight basis,
is 23% elemental sulphur : 77% MOP. However, other various compositions may be used as
required for particular soil types and conditions, and/or requirements.
For example, a percentage weight:weight treatment composition may include:
Muriate of Potash (MOP) up to 80%
Sulphur (elemental) up to 60%
Fluid 0-18%
Other components including trace elements 0-20%
Particles are sized to suit local conditions. Normally colder drier areas need finer particles. The
sulphur components may be tailored not only to the soil type requirements based on soil
structure and climatic conditions, but also to the instant availability for vegetative growth burst,
or may provide a long-term residual effect in the soil.
Uniform granule size is a benefit in terms of transportation and application.
The present invention is adapted to provide a fertiliser providing potentially realisable benefits
Low cost.
Controlled release.
Wholly organic fertiliser.
Not easily leachable from soil.
Muriate of Potash
Within the invention, Muriate of Potash (MOP) is used as a granule binding agent and is
agronomically valuable in its own right. MOP has not been previously been used as a binding
agent for elemental sulphur. Run of mine MOP from high quality deposits may be used to
ensure the acceptance of the product as organic.
Binding agents other than MOP may also be used such as bentonite and molasses, as may be
required in certain treatment compositions. For example, bentonite may contribute with binding
of the components of the granule, yet also provide benefits as a soil conditioner, particularly in
clay soils.
Fine Sulphur
The fine elemental sulphur in the granules provides a form of faster acting sulphur which is
readily plant available without the accompanying sulphate leaching problems associated with
sulphate based fertilisers.
In order to get a very fast sulphur response a minus 20 micron component is included in the
sulphur.
The elemental sulphur may also include an even superfine component (<10 micron).
Organic Fertiliser
This MOP and sulfur granular fertiliser offers an organic fertiliser option in which the
components of this granular fertiliser have specific agronomic value.
Environmental Benefits
The elemental sulphur is not easily leached or susceptible to run-off from the soil, giving
considerable environmental benefits in the use of the granular fertiliser of the present invention.
Intimate Particle Contact
When elemental sulphur is inter-ground (under pressure) with MOP or another active, there is
greater intimate contact between the particles. This results in a “bonding” together of the
particles. As the inter-grinding takes place the granule is also being compacted and this
produces heat between 60˚C and 100˚C. Sulphur mobilises at around 80˚C and will possibly
mobilise at a lower temperature under the high pressures used to form this granule. The
mobilised sulfur will smear the fine MOP particles or particles of other actives, thereby forming
an extremely intimate contact.
The smearing effect of the sulphur not only serves to create intimate contact between the
elemental sulphur and the other actives, but also can be utilised to effect at least one of -
reduces problems with the explosive nature of fine sulphur particles, increases the surface area
of the sulphur increasing its potential availability in or on the soil, effectively coats the other
actives with the sulphur enabling desired release profiles of the components of the granules,
and so forth.
In addition, biological oxidation of elemental sulphur (S) mixed and applied with other actives
will increase and improve its effectiveness as a fertiliser.
Customised Granules
The amounts of sulphur and MOP and any additional actives, soil conditioners and/or trace
elements, in the granule, may be varied to suit the particular application.
The granules may also be tailored to suit specific regions in terms of the particle size and
reactivity. As may also be seen from Figures 1 - 5 inclusive, the ability to customise the
granules for use in different soils, in different countries and in different regions within a
country, may also be effected.
Therefore, by varying any one or more of:
a) The percentage of elemental sulphur in the treatment composition/granule;
b) The percentage of MOP in the treatment composition/granule;
c) The percentage of any additional actives, and/or other macro or micronutrients, soil
conditioners, beneficial bacteria or other plant beneficial organisms and/or trace elements
in the treatment composition/granule;
d) The percentage of fluid in the treatment composition/granule;
e) What the fluid in the treatment composition/granule is;
f) The size of the particles of the sulphur and/or MOP and/or any additional actives and/or
other macro or micronutrients and/or any soil conditioners, including lime and/or any trace
elements in the treatment composition/granule;
g) The proportion of particle sizes in the mixture – superfine (<10 micron), fine (<20micron),
coarse, etc.
h) How the components are mixed – inter-ground, ground separately and then mixed, one
being mixed with the fluid and then added to the remaining component(s);
i) How the granules are prepared – using high or low pressure techniques - including the
specific preparation technique itself and variations to that technique;
j) How the granules are dried;
and so forth, the treatment composition and/or the granules prepared, may be customised as
required for specific treatments. For example, Figures 1 and 2 show granules produced using a
high pressure technique to produce Pressure Formed elemental sulphur/ MOP, 4 mm Granules
(via a Pellet Press).
Granules formed from finely ground components (having particle sizes of around <500
microns) and without using a fluid (in this case, water) – from these test results, appear to form
hard granules taking longer than two days to dissolve when exposed to water. This is even the
case where the granules are simply air dried after manufacture. As more water is added to the
composition, the speed at which the formed granules dissolve, when exposed to water, is
increased; and, the crush strength of the granules is correspondingly decreased. However, by
drying the granules in a dryer for a period at 80˚C the crush strength shows an increase and the
drying using a dryer appears to have some effect on potentially (although possibly marginally)
increasing the time taken for the granules to dissolve when exposed to water depending on the
quantity of water in the original composition.
Figure 3 shows granules produced using a low pressure technique to produce Low Pressure
Agglomeration Formed elemental sulphur/ MOP Granules. Granules formed using this method
and formed from finely ground components (having particle sizes of around <500 microns) –
from these test results appear to demonstrate low crush strengths and marginally fast times to
dissolve – irrespective on the percentages of elemental sulphur, MOP or fluid in the
composition, even when the granules are dried in a dryer for varying times.
By introducing a coarser particle into the granule (so that the particle sizes are <1mm), the
results suggest the granule crush strength is substantially increased. It therefore suggests that in
the case of sulphur/ MOP granules formed by low pressure, low pressure coarse elemental
sulphur component makes a stronger granule than does a fine elemental sulphur component. In
addition, with a coarser particle size, at a higher MOP percentage and lower water percentage
(along with the improved crush strength) the time taken for the granules to dissolve in water is
also marginally increased. The binding strength of the MOP increases the greater the
percentage ratio (%) of MOP to that of the sulphur. The longer drying time of the fine particle
granules (<500microns) does not appear to have an effect on increasing the crush strength or
the dissolution time.
It is also noted that coarser MOP blends well with other fertiliser nutrients, such as N-P
compounds to form NPK-blended multi-nutrient fertilisers. This may be relevant to variations
in the agents/actives used in preparation of various soil treatment compositions and granules in
accordance with the present invention.
Figure 4 illustrates the ability to control dispersion time and compression strength of the
particles to suit delivery of the fertiliser, by applying different production methods. Test results
show that granules produced using a flat die pellet press take longer to dissolve/disperse (more
than 24 hours) and have a greater mean crush strength (2.5kg), than granules produced using a
chilsinator method (at 14 hours dispersion time and 1.5 kg mean crush strength), or using a
simulated pan granulation (where rapid dispersion of the granules is achieved over 15 seconds
and the mean crush strength is 0.34kg). This allows the fertiliser granules to be tailor made for
specific applications, soils and climatic conditions.
Figure 5 illustrates examples of the effect of adjusting components in the fertilser composition.
For example, by adding an additional soil treatment component to the fertiliser composition - in
this case Reactive Phosphate Rock - there is a corresponding increase in crush strength yet also
an increase in the dispersion rate of the granules formed. The RPR is included at a similar
weight for weight proportion as that of the fine elemental sulphur to MOP granules in Figure 4
(although the elemental sulphur component is retained, but in reduced proportion). The
granules are produced using the same flat die pellet press production method as shown in
Figure 4, but the results indicate the effects on dispersion and crush strength of the granules
based on the granule components and their relative proportions in the composition. For
example, the elemental sulphur/MOP/RPR granules disperse faster (at < 12 hours), yet have a
greater mean crush strength (4.75kg), than the granule produced containing elemental sulphur
and MOP alone (in similar proportions to the MOP:RPR components in granules in Figure 5).
In addition, Figure 5 results demonstrate the effect of adjusting the particle size of the fertilser
components in the fertiliser composition of the granules formed. Using the same production
method of simulated pan granulation, an elemental sulphur/MOP/RPR granule produced, where
the RPR component is finely ground to pass 75 micron, takes almost twice as long to disperse,
but has a lower mean crush strength value, than an elemental sulphur/MOP/RPR granule
produced, where the RPR component is finely ground to pass 500 micron.
Therefore, while the present invention is directed to using improved grinding and granular
compaction techniques to effect production of a fine elemental sulphur/MOP fertiliser, a
number of variations are possible within the ambit of the present invention. Additional
components may be included to achieve a fertiliser tailored for specific situations, nutrient
deficiencies, and so forth, yet the final granule will be dependent on the method of producing
the granules. Accordingly, by adjusting the components, the proportions, the particle sizes, the
inclusion of fluids and the granule production methods used, a granular fertiliser product
having a desired granule crush strength and rate at which the granule dissolves, is achieved. So,
the granules are preferably able to be formed taking into account the soils, the climate, the
period of time the components are desired to be released, and so forth.
When referring to the description of the present invention, it should also be understood that the
term “comprise” where used herein is not to be considered to be used in a limiting sense.
Accordingly, ‘comprise’ does not represent nor define an exclusive set of items, but includes
the possibility of other components and items being added to the list.
This specification is also based on the understanding of the inventor regarding the prior art. The
prior art description should not be regarded as being an authoritative disclosure of the true state
of the prior art but rather as referring to considerations in and brought to the mind and attention
of the inventor when developing this invention.
Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of example only and it should be
appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the
scope thereof, as defined in the appended claims.
THE
Claims (39)
1. A soil treatment composition in granular form for use as a fertiliser for application on to or into soil, said soil treatment composition including at least one active soil treatment component, said soil treatment including finely ground particulate elemental sulphur; said soil treatment composition including at least one other agent, said at least one other agent including Muriate of Potash, said soil treatment composition characterised by said Muriate of Potash being combined with the finely ground particulate elemental sulphur to operate as a binding agent/dispersing agent in the formation of pressure formed elemental sulphur fertiliser granules; and wherein the composition comprises on a weight to weight basis of the soil treatment components (wherein the component amounts of the composition total 100%): a) Up to 60% by weight of finely ground elemental sulphur; and b) Up to 80% by weight of finely ground Muriate of Potash (MOP). and wherein the particulate elemental sulphur is finely ground to include a 20 micron component.
2. A soil treatment composition as claimed in Claim 1 wherein the composition comprises on a weight to weight basis of the soil treatment components (wherein the component amounts of the composition total 100%): a) Up to 23% by weight of finely ground elemental sulphur; and b) Up to 77% by weight of finely ground Muriate of Potash (MOP).
3. A soil treatment composition as claimed in Claim 3 wherein the composition includes a fluid.
4. A soil treatment composition as claimed in Claim 3 wherein the composition comprises on a weight to weight basis of the soil treatment components (wherein the component amounts of the composition total 100%): a) Up to 60% by weight of finely ground elemental sulphur; and b) Up to 80% by weight of finely ground Muriate of Potash (MOP); and c) Up to 18% by weight of fluid.
5. A soil treatment composition as claimed in Claim 4 wherein the fluid includes at least one of water, an oil, a wax.
6. A soil treatment composition as claimed in Claim 5 wherein the oil includes at least one of a vegetable oil, a fish oil.
7. A soil treatment composition as claimed in Claim 6 wherein, in addition to the finely ground particulate elemental sulphur, the Muriate of Potash and the fluid, the composition includes at least one other component, on a weight to weight basis (wherein the composition amounts totals 100%), from a list including: a) Bentonite; b) Lime; c) Trace elements; d) Urea; e) Organic nitrogen; f) Reactive Phosphate Rock; g) A binding agent; h) A dispersing agent.
8. A soil treatment composition as claimed in Claim 7 wherein the composition comprises on a weight to weight basis of the soil treatment components (wherein the component amounts of the composition total 100%): a) Up to 60% by weight of finely ground elemental sulphur; and b) Up to 80% by weight of finely ground Muriate of Potash (MOP) c) Up to 18% by weight of fluid d) Up to 20% by weight of other components, including trace elements.
9. A soil treatment composition as claimed in Claim 8 wherein the said finely ground particulate elemental sulphur component is intermixed with any one or more of the other components prior to preparation of the granular form, such that the particle sizes of the said components vary within the granule.
10. A soil treatment composition as claimed in Claim 8 wherein the said particulate elemental sulphur component is finely inter-ground with any one or more of the other components prior to preparation of the granular form, such that the particle sizes of the said components is uniform within the granule.
11. A soil treatment composition as claimed in Claim 9 or Claim 10 wherein the said particulate elemental sulphur component is finely inter-ground with any one or more of the other components in dried form prior to addition of the fluid and prior to preparation of the granular form.
12. A soil treatment composition as claimed in Claim 9 or Claim 10 wherein the said particulate elemental sulphur component is finely inter-ground with any one or more of the other components in fluid dampened form prior to preparation of the granular form.
13. A soil treatment composition as claimed in Claim 11 and Claim 12 wherein the granule size for the granular form of the composition is 2 - 8 millimeters.
14. A soil treatment composition as claimed in Claim 13 wherein the granule size for the granular form of the fertiliser composition is 6 millimeter-sized pellets.
15. A soil treatment composition as claimed in Claim 14 wherein a coating is applied to the granular form to effect release of the components from the granular form over a period of time in a preferred profile after introduction of the granular form on to or into the soil.
16. A soil treatment composition as claimed in Claim 15 wherein said coating applied to the granular form optionally includes lime.
17. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition in granular form as a fertiliser for application on to or into soil, said soil treatment composition including at least one active soil treatment component, said soil treatment component including finely ground particulate elemental sulphur; said soil treatment composition including at least one other agent, said at least one other agent including Muriate of Potash, said soil treatment composition characterised by said Muriate of Potash being combined with the finely ground particulate elemental sulphur to operate as a binding agent/dispersing agent in the formation of pressure formed elemental sulphur fertiliser granules; said method including the steps of: a) Grinding a predetermined quantity of elemental sulphur to preferred particle sizes, and wherein the particulate elemental sulphur is finely ground to include a 20 micron component; and said finely ground particulate elemental sulphur component comprising up to 60% by weight on a weight to weight basis (wherein the component amounts of the composition total 100%), b) Grinding a predetermined quantity of Muriate of Potash to preferred particle sizes; and said finely ground particulate Muriate of Potash component comprising up to 80% by weight on a weight to weight basis (wherein the component amounts of the composition total 100%); and c) Selecting a predetermined quantity of any other component(s) as required for the soil treatment composition; and d) Including up to 18% added fluid; and e) Mixing said components together; and f) Applying pressure to a quantity of said component-fluid mixture to effect composition in stable, dust free granular form.
18. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition in granular form as a fertiliser for application on to or into soil, said soil treatment composition including at least one active soil treatment component, said soil treatment component including finely ground particulate elemental sulphur; said soil treatment composition including at least one other agent, said at least one other agent including Muriate of Potash, said soil treatment composition characterised by said Muriate of Potash being combined with the finely ground particulate elemental sulphur to operate as a binding agent/dispersing agent in the formation of pressure formed elemental sulphur fertiliser granules; said method including the steps of: a) Grinding a predetermined quantity of elemental sulphur to preferred particle sizes and wherein the particulate elemental sulphur is finely ground to include a 20 micron component; and said finely ground particulate elemental sulphur component comprising up to 60% by weight on a weight to weight basis (wherein the component amounts of the composition total 100%), b) Grinding a predetermined quantity of Muriate of Potash preferred particle sizes; and said finely ground particulate Muriate of Potash component comprising up to 80% by weight on a weight to weight basis (wherein the component amounts of the composition total 100%); and c) Selecting a predetermined quantity of any other component(s) as required for the soil treatment composition; and d) Mixing said components together; and e) Including up to 18% added fluid; and f) Applying pressure to a quantity of said component-fluid mixture to effect composition in stable, dust free granular form.
19. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition in granular form as a fertiliser for application on to or into soil, said soil treatment composition including at least one active soil treatment component, said soil treatment component including finely ground particulate elemental sulphur and sizes, and wherein the particulate elemental sulphur is finely ground to include a 20 micron component; said soil treatment composition including at least one other agent, said at least one other agent including Muriate of Potash, said soil treatment composition characterised by said Muriate of Potash being combined with the finely ground particulate elemental sulphur to operate as a binding agent/dispersing agent in the formation of pressure formed elemental sulphur fertiliser granules; said method including the steps of: a) Selecting a predetermined quantity of elemental sulphur component comprising up to 60% by weight on a weight to weight basis (wherein the component amounts of the composition total 100%), b) Selecting a predetermined quantity of Muriate of Potash component comprising up to 80% by weight on a weight to weight basis (wherein the component amounts of the composition total 100%); and c) Mixing the elemental sulphur with said Muriate of Potash and a predetermined quantity of other component(s) required, d) Including up to 18% added fluid, e) Said components being finely inter-ground together to preferred particle sizes; and f) Applying pressure to a quantity of said component-solvent mixture to form stable, dust free granules of the composition.
20. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition in granular form as a fertiliser for application on to or into soil, said soil treatment composition including at least one active soil treatment component, said soil treatment component including finely ground particulate elemental sulphur; and wherein the particulate elemental sulphur is finely ground to include a 20 micron component; said soil treatment composition including at least one other agent, said at least one other agent including Muriate of Potash, said soil treatment composition characterised by said Muriate of Potash being combined with the finely ground particulate elemental sulphur to operate as a binding agent/dispersing agent in the formation of pressure formed elemental sulphur fertiliser granules; said method including the steps of: a) Selecting a predetermined quantity of elemental sulphur component comprising up to 60% by weight on a weight to weight basis (wherein the component amounts of the composition total 100%), b) Selecting a predetermined quantity of Muriate of Potash component comprising up to 80% by weight on a weight to weight basis (wherein the component amounts of the composition total 100%); and c) Mixing the elemental sulphur with said Muriate of Potash and a predetermined quantity of other component(s) required, d) Said components being finely inter-ground together to preferred particle sizes; and e) Including up to 18% added fluid, f) Applying pressure to a quantity of said component-solvent mixture to form stable, dust free granules of the composition.
21. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition in granular form as claimed in any one of Claims 17 to 20 wherein in addition to the finely ground particulate elemental sulphur, the Muriate of Potash and the fluid, the composition includes at least one other component, on a weight to weight basis (wherein the composition amounts totals 100%), from a list including: a) Bentonite; b) Lime; c) Trace elements; d) Urea; e) Organic nitrogen; f) Reactive Phosphate Rock; g) A binding agent; h) A dispersing agent.
22. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition in granular form as Claimed in Claim 21 wherein the fluid includes at least one of water, an oil, a wax.
23. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition in granular form as claimed in Claim 22 wherein the oil includes at least one of a vegetable oil, a fish oil.
24. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition in granular form as claimed in Claim 23 wherein the fluid is optionally used to disperse the MOP therein before being added to the dry granule components.
25. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition in granular form as claimed in Claim 24 wherein the MOP particles are interspersed with and between the elemental sulphur particles.
26. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition in granular form as claimed in Claim 25 wherein the MOP particles recrystallises when dried and imparts strength to the fertiliser granule following application of pressure required to form the granule.
27. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition in granular form as claimed in Claim 26 wherein granules produced at low pressure are adapted to disperse in water at predetermined time frames from 2-3 seconds, in up to 10 hours or up to 48 hours to fully disperse.
28. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition in granular form as claimed in Claim 26 wherein the granules produced at high pressure are adapted to disperse in water at predetermined time frames from less than 10 minutes, in up to 24 hours, or up to 72 hours to fully disperse.
29. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition in granular form as claimed in Claim 27 and 28 wherein the granules have a crush strength of between 1 – 10 kg.
30. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition in granular form as claimed in Claim 29 wherein a coating is applied to the granular form to effect release of the soil treatment components from the granular form over a period of time in a preferred profile after introduction of the granular form on to or into the soil.
31. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition in granular form as claimed in Claim 30 wherein said coating applied to the granular form optionally includes urea, lime, a urease, a nitrogen inhibitor.
32. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition in granular form as claimed in Claim 31 wherein the particle size of the soil treatment components is optimised by fine-grinding and classification to suit differing soil conditions, soils type, differing climatic conditions and the different plant nutrient release rates required to achieve the purpose for which it is being used.
33. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition in granular form as claimed in Claim 32 wherein the particle size of the soil treatment components effects varying release rate of the components by providing one component having an exposed surface area greater than other component(s) in the granule.
34. A granule produced from a soil treatment composition for use as a fertiliser for application on to or into soil, said soil treatment composition including at least one active soil treatment component, said soil treatment component including finely ground particulate elemental sulphur; sizes, and wherein the particulate elemental sulphur is finely ground to include a 20 micron component; said soil treatment composition including at least one other agent, said at least one other agent including Muriate of Potash, said soil treatment composition characterised by said Muriate of Potash being combined with the finely ground particulate elemental sulphur to operate as a binding agent/dispersing agent in the formation of pressure formed elemental sulphur fertiliser granules; and wherein the composition comprises on a weight to weight basis of the soil treatment components (wherein the component amounts of the composition total 100%): a) Up to 60% by weight of finely ground elemental sulphur; and b) Up to 80% by weight of finely ground Muriate of Potash (MOP).
35. A method of manufacturing a granule from a soil treatment composition for use as a fertiliser for application on to or into soil, said soil treatment composition including at least one active soil treatment component, said soil treatment component including finely ground particulate elemental sulphur; sizes, and wherein the particulate elemental sulphur is finely ground to include a 20 micron component; said soil treatment composition including at least one other agent, said at least one other agent including Muriate of Potash, said soil treatment composition characterised by said Muriate of Potash being combined with the finely ground particulate elemental sulphur to operate as a binding agent/dispersing agent in the formation of pressure formed elemental sulphur fertiliser granules; and wherein the composition comprises on a weight to weight basis of the soil treatment components (wherein the component amounts of the composition total 100%): a) Up to 60% by weight of finely ground elemental sulphur; and b) Up to 80% by weight of finely ground Muriate of Potash (MOP).
36. A soil treatment composition for use as a fertiliser, as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 16 herein, with reference to the included examples and attached figures.
37. A method of manufacturing a soil treatment composition for use as a fertiliser as claimed in any one of Claims 17 to 33 herein, with reference to the included examples and attached figures.
38. A granule for use in soil treatment applications as a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 34 herein, with reference to the included examples and attached figures.
39. A method of manufacturing a granule for use in soil treatment applications as a fertiliser when applied on to or in to soil as claimed in as claimed in Claim 35 herein, with reference to the included examples and attached figures. ROBERT HAMILTON HALL By his attorneys IPSPEC (NZ) LIMITED
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
NZ615600B2 true NZ615600B2 (en) | 2014-12-02 |
Family
ID=
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US10934225B2 (en) | Compaction of polyhalite and potash mixture | |
AU2008312121B2 (en) | Improvements in and relating to soil treatments | |
US10513470B2 (en) | Slow and fast release fertilizer composition and methods for making same | |
US20220162133A1 (en) | Polyhalite and potash granules | |
AU2012216532B2 (en) | Improvements in and relating to soil treatments | |
AU2006207886A1 (en) | Fertiliser | |
AU2009249901B2 (en) | Improvements in and relating to soil treatments | |
CN104529677B (en) | A kind of salt-soda soil sustained release suppression salt fertilizer and preparation method thereof | |
AU2013231024B2 (en) | Improvements in and relating to soil treatments | |
NZ615600B2 (en) | Improvements in and relating to soil treatments | |
AU2012216575B2 (en) | Improvements in and Relating to Soil Treatments | |
EA044470B1 (en) | POLYHALITE AND POTASH GRANULES | |
NZ588680A (en) | Granular fertilizer compositions containing particulate reactive phosphate rock (RPR) and finely ground triple superphosphate (TSP) | |
NZ562658A (en) | Improvements in and relating to soil treatments using fine particulate elemental sulphur | |
NZ576689A (en) | Granular fertiliser composition comprising finely interground elemental sulphur and particulate urea | |
BR112019026669B1 (en) | PROCESS FOR COMPACTING POLYLITE WITH POTASSE | |
AU2013251216A1 (en) | Improvements in and relating to the manufacture of granular material | |
NZ617022B2 (en) | Improvements in and relating to the manufacture of granular material |