OA20954A - Multi-phase material-containing compositions and related methods of preparation and use - Google Patents

Abstract

The disclosed compositions can exhibit one or more of a variety of beneficial properties and/or uses. The compositions can be a source of components, such as micronutrients, macronutrients and other beneficial elements. In cases where a composition is a potassium source, the composition can be a potassium fertilizer. The compositions can provide a healthy environment for microbiota. The compositions can reduce nutrient leaching losses and/or provide for multistage nutrient release. The compositions can provide high water retention capacity. The compositions can provide a residual effect to soil and/or create a nutrient storage. The compositions can be substantially chloride free and/or present low salinity. The compositions can be used for heavy metal soil remediation. Other properties and uses of compositions are disclosed. In addition, related methods of use and preparation are also disclosed.

Description

MULTI-PHASE MATERIAL-CONTAINING COMPOSITIONS AND RELATED METHODS OF PREPARATION AND USE

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The présent application c lai ms benefit under 35 U.S.C. § ί 19 of U. S. S.N. 62/977,948, flled February 18, 2020, and entitled “PROCESSING POTASSIUM RESERVES TO GENERATE A MULTI-STAGE FERTILIZER,” the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD

[0002] The disclosure relates to multî-phase material-containing compositions and related methods of préparation and use.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Potassium chloride (KCI), sometimes referred to as murîate of potash (MOP), is a common source of potassium (K) in fertilizers. It is known to use K-feldspar as a starting material to produce potassium source materials.

SUMMARY

[0004] K-feldspar is one of the most abondant aluminosilicate minerais from the earth’s crust. However, without further processing, the immédiate effect it has on soil is in most cases limited. As an example, the K within the K-feldspar minerais is iargely inaccessible because it is bound to the framework ofthe minerai. Natural weathering processes can release some of the trapped K. This process formed the world’s ancient fertile soils, but natural weathering rates of K-feldspar occur far slower than what is required to replenish the nutrients for agronomie soil use.

[0005] The disclosure provides compositions, as well as related methods of préparation and use, that can overcome one or more limitations of K-feldspar. In some embodiments, the compositions can build-up the overall fertîlîty of a soil, improve the health and life of the soil, and recover degraded and exhausted soils. Additionally or alternatîvely, the compositions can reduce leaching losses of one or more components of the composition. As an example, in some embodiments in which a composition includes a multi-phase material and KCI, leaching losses of K can be decreased when compared to leaching that would occur with solely KCI. In certain embodiments, the disclosure provides improved K-bearing fertilizers and/or compositions that provide one or more nutrients (macronutrients and/or micronutrients) and/or other bénéficiai éléments to crops and/or soiIs. In certain embodiments in which a composition contains one or more nutrients (macronutrients and/or micronutrients) and/or other bénéficiai éléments, leaching losses of the nutrient(s) and/or other bénéficiai element(s) can be reduced. The disclosure also provides compositions that can exhibit hîgher performance and/or higher yield. Generally, the processes for making the compositions can be relatîvely simple and inexpensive. As a resuit, in general, the technology can be relatîvely easy and inexpensive to implement on an industrial scale.

[0006] Generally, the compositions disclosed herein include a multi-phase materîal (MPM) and at least one additional component.

[0007] As used herein, an MPM is a material that includes at least two phases (e.g., two phases, three phases, four phases, five phases) selected from K-feldspar phase, tobermorite phase, hydrogrossular phase, dîcalcîum silicate hydrate and amorphous phase. [0008] Examples of additional components include KC1 (sylvite phase), macronutrients (nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnésium (Mg) and sulfur (S)), micronutrients (boron (B), chlorine (Cl), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganèse (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni) and zinc (Zn)) and/or other bénéficiai éléments (e.g., sodium (Na), sélénium (Se), Silicon (Si), cobalt (Co) and vanadium (V)). [0009] Generally, an MPM can be prepared according to any appropriate process. As dîscussed in more detailed elsewhere herein, in some embodiments, an MPM is prepared by a hydrothermal process, followed by drying. A hydrothermal process for preparing an MPM can include, for example, reacting an alkali métal silicate with: i) an oxide, a hydroxide and/or a carbonate of at least one of an alkaline earth métal and an alkali métal; and iî) water, at a température between 90°C and 400°C (e.g., 100°C and 400°C), a pressure between one atmosphère (atm) to 300 atm and for a time period of from 0.01 hour (h) to six h. As an example, in certain embodiments, an MPM is prepared by reacting K-feldspar syenite with calcium oxide (CaO) at a température between 90°C and 400°C (e.g., 100°C and 400°C), to a pressure between one atm to 300 atm for a time period of from 0.01 h to six h, followed by drying. In some embodiments, a hydrothermal process is performed using an autoclave.

[0010] In general, any appropriate method can be used to make compositions that include an MPM and at least one additional component. In some embodiments, a method of making a composition involves blendîng at least substantially dry (e.g., completely dry) MPM with at least one additional component. in some embodiments, a method of making a composition involves combining at least one additional component with the intermediate product formed during MPM production after hydrothermal processing but before drying, thereby forming an intermediate combination, followed by drying the intermediate combination. In some embodiments, a method includes combining at least one additional component with the starting materials for an MPM préparation to provide a combination, followed by hydrothermal processing and drying of the combination. Combinations of such methods can be used.

[0011] Without wîshîng to be bound by theory, it is believed that the multiple different phases present in an MPM allow for the possibility of timing/staging the release ofthe additional component(s) from the composition. Thus, it is possible to taîlor a given composition to achieve a particular desired release profile of the additional component(s). [0012] In some embodiments, the dîsclosure provides a process for the préparation of compositions, for example, with potential application in agriculture as a fertilizer (e.g., by providing the one or more additional components in the composition) and/or in soil remedîation (e.g., by immobilizing heavy metals from the soil). In certain embodiments, the present dîsclosure can provide a process for the préparation of compositions that can signifîcantly increase crop yields and improve soil health, compared, for example, with a standalone KCI fertilizer. The present dîsclosure provides compositions with different rates and patterns of release of the one or more additional components. For example, in the case of K-release, the compositions can combine highly water-soluble KCI with the unique properties of MPMs such that compositions exhibît relatively quick K-release in addition to multi-staged / slow K-release. In some cases, the compositions provide multistage release of the one or more additional components, a hîgh cation-adsorption capacity, a bénéficiai agronomie residual effect, an abilîty to buffer soi! pH at optimal levels for a given crop, a microbiome friendly property, and/or a low salinity. In certain embodiments, the compositions can supply one or more nutrients and/or one or more bénéficiai éléments to the crops for a relatively long period of time (e.g., an entire season). In some embodiments, this can be achieved through a single application. This can save, for example, application costs and/or reduce the demand for short-season manual labor. Additionally or altematively, this can improve agronomie performance through, for example, réduction of stress and/or spécifie toxicity resultîng from excessive nutrîent supply in the root zones.

[0013] The disclosure aliows for tailoring a process to yield a composition having desired properties. As an example, process parameters may be manipulated to yield a composition with a relatîvely high cation exchange capacîty (CEC) or a relatively low CEC. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that a relatively high CEC and/or weight percentage of tobermorite may be désirable for a composition to be used in soil remediatîon (e.g., immobilîzation of one or more heavy metals from the soil). Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the relatively low or high CEC values and/or weight percentage of tobermorite are influenced by time periods and/or températures for hydrothermal processing. Optionally, varions compositions having different CEC values can be combined as desired to achieve an overall composition which exhibits combinations of CEC properties.

[0014] Optionally, the process yîelds a composition that includes an MPM and KCi (sylvîte phase). Such a composition can, for example, include K-feldspar phases in a range between 1% and 74.5% by weight, tobermorite phase(s) in a range between 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 50% by weight, between 0% and 45% by weight, between 0% and 40% by weight, between 0% and 35% by weight, between 0% and 30% by weight. between 0% and 25% by weight, between 0% and 20% by weight), hydrogrossular phase(s) in a range between 0% and 15% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 12% by weight), dicalcium silicate hydrate phase in a range between 0% and 20% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 15% by weight, between 0% and 12% by weight, between 0% and 10% by weight), amorphous phase in a range between 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 45% by weight), sylvite phase in a range between 0.1% and 99% by weight and accessories phase in a range between 0% and 20% by weight. Generally, such a composition can be prepared according to any of the various methods disclosed herein. The materîals used in such methods (e.g., K-feldspar syenite and CaO) are typically environmentally stable and non-hazardous materials, which are usually abundant, affordable, easy to work with, and readily available in bulk volumes worldwide. In general, the KCI can be introduced in any appropriate form, such as, for example, as crystals, salts, powder, liquid (e.g., solution) and/or slurry. While the foregoîng discussion în this paragraph refers to specifically to KCI, more generally, one or more of any of the other additional components disclosed herein can be used instead of, or in addition to, KCI.

[0015] The disclosure provides, for exampie, methods for preparing K and other soi 1 health and nutrient source compositions that hâve improved properties compared to certain known materials. For example, KC1 can dissolve relatîvely rapidly in a mariner that can resuit in a relatîvely sudden increase of local K⁺ and CF concentrations that can drasticaliy perturb the equilîbria between exchangeable and non-exchangeable K in the soil, which can be a détriment for seedlings and/or salt-sensitive Systems, in some instances, a substantial fraction of this K is lost by systemic leacbing, a phenomenon that can proceed at a relatîvely slow rate in temperate soils but is exaggerated in tropical soils because of the climatic conditions. The présent disclosure provides, in various embodiments, compositions providing relatîvely immédiate release of K (e.g., from soluble portions of a composition) and/or extended / staged release of K. While the foregoing discussion in this paragraph refers to speciflcally to KCI, more generally, any of the additional components disclosed herein can be used instead of, or in addition to, KCI.

[0015] in a general aspect, the disclosure provides a method that includes: heating at a température of at least 90°C for a time of at least 10 minutes and a pressure of at least one atmosphère: 1) a potassîc framework silicate ore; 2) at least one material selected from the group consisting of an oxide, a hydroxide, and a carbonate of at least one of an alkaline earth métal and an alkali meta!; and 3) water, thereby producing a first product; combining the first product with a source of a component to form a second product; and drying the second product to provide a composition including an MPM and the component, wherein the source of the component includes at least one member selected from the group consisting of KCI, a macronutrient source, a micronutrient source and a source of a bénéficiai element.

[0016] In a general aspect, the disclosure provides a method that includes: heating at a température of at least 90°C for a time of at least 10 minutes and a pressure of at least one atmosphère: 1) a potassîc framework silicate ore; 2) at least one material selected from the group consisting of an oxide, a hydroxide, and a carbonate of at least one of an alkaline earth métal and an alkali métal; and 3) water, thereby producing a first product; drying the first product to provide a second product; and combining the second product with a source of a component to provide a composition including the MPM and the component, wherein the source of the component includes at least one member selected from the group consisting of KCI, a macronutrient source, a micronutrient source and a source of a bénéficiai element.

[0017| In a general aspect, the dîsclosure provides a method that includes: heating at a température of at least 90°C for a time of at least 10 minutes and a pressure of at least one atmosphère: 1 ) a potassic framework silicate ore; 2) at least one material selected from the group consisting of an oxide, a hydroxide, and a carbonate of at least one of an alkaline earth métal and an alkali métal; 3) water; and 4) a source of a component, thereby producing a first product; and dryîng the first product to provide a composition including an MPM and the component, wherein the source of the component includes at least one member selected from the group consisting of KC1, a macronutrient source, a micronutrient source and a source of a bénéficiai element.

[θθ18] In a general aspect, the dîsclosure provides a composition, including: an MPM; and a component selected from the group consisting of a KCL a macronutrient, a micronutrient and a bénéficiai element, wherein the MPM includes at least two phases selected from the group consisting of K-feldspar phase, tobermorite phase, hydrogrossuiar phase, dicalcium silicate hydrate phase and amorphous phase.

[0019] In some embodiments, the at least one material includes at least two materials selected from the group consisting of an oxide, a hydroxide and a carbonate of at least one of an alkaline earth métal and an alkali métal.

[0020] In some embodiments, the at least one material includes an oxide, a hydroxide, and a carbonate of at least one of an alkaline earth métal and an alkali métal.

[0021] In some embodiments, the pressure is at most 300 atmosphères.

[0022] In some embodiments, the température is at most 400°C.

[0023] In some embodiments, the time is at most six hours.

[0024] In some embodiments, the first product includes a slurry including a precursor of the MPM.

[0025] In some embodiments, the second product includes the MPM.

[0026] In some embodiments, drying is performed at a température of at least between 25°C and/or at a température of at most 200°C.

[0027] In some embodiments, drying occurs at a pressure of at least one atmosphère and/or at a pressure of at most 100 atmosphères.

[0028] in some embodiments, drying occurs for at least 0.0î hour and/or at most 72 hours.

[0029] In some embodiments, heating occurs in an autoclave.

[0030] In some embodiments, the potassic Framework silicate ore includes at least one member selected from the group consisting of K-feldspar, kalsilite, nepheline, trachyte, rhyolîte, ultrapotassic syenite, ieucite, nepheline syenite, phonolite, fenite, aplite and pegmatite. For example, in some embodiments, the potassic framework silicate ore includes K-feldspar.

[0031] In some embodiments, the at least one material includes at least one member selected from the group consisting of lithium (Li), sodium (Na), and potassium (K), béryllium (Be), magnésium (Mg), calcium (Ca), strontium (Sr).

[0032] In some embodiments, the at least one material includes at least one member selected from the group consisting of CaO, Ca(OH)2 and CaCOj.

[0033] in some embodiments, at least one of the following holds: the at least one material includes CaO in a molar ratio of Ca:Si of between 0.05 and 0.6; the at least one material includes Ca(OH)2 in a molar ratio of Ca:Si between 0.05 and 0.6; and the at least one material includes CaCOj in a molar ratio of Ca:Si between 0.05 and 0.6.

[0034] In some embodiments, the composition has a weight ratio of MPM:KC1 of at least 0.1:1 and/or a weight ratio of MPM:K.C1 of at most 100:1.

[0035] In some embodiments, a method further includes granulating. In some embodiments, granulating is performed after drying.

[0036] In some embodiments, an amount of K⁺ released from the composition after a 30 minute to a 1 OO-fold excess of deîonized ranges from about 0.2 grams to about 520 grams K⁺ per kîlogram of the composition.

[0037] In some embodiments, an amount of K⁺ released from the composition after a 30 minute exposure to a 1 OO-fold excess of acid is at least 676-fold higher than an amount of K⁺ released by the potassic framework silicate ore under the same extraction conditions. [0038] In some embodiments, an amount of K⁺ released from the composition after a 30 min exposure to a 1 OO-fold excess of water is at least 2650 times higher than an amount of K⁺ released by the potassic framework silicate ore under the same extraction conditions. [0039] in some embodiments, a ratio of immediate-release potassium to slow release potassium in the composition is from about 720:1 to about 0.01:1.

[0040] In some embodiments, a percentage of CI^- in the composition is between 0.5% and 45%.

[0041] In some embodiments, the source of the component includes at least one member selected from the group consisting of a macronutrient source, a micronutrient source and a source of a bénéficiai element.

[0042] In some embodiments, the source of the component includes KC1.

[0043] In some embodiments, wherein the source of the component includes a source of a member selected from the group consisting of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, B, Cl, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Zn, Na, Se, Si, Co and V.

[0044] In some embodiments, the source of the component is added before heatîng.

[0045] In some embodiments, the source of the component is added after heating but before drying.

[0046] In some embodiments, the source of the component is added after drying.

[0047] In some embodiments, the MPM includes at least two phases (e.g., at least three phases, at least four phases, each phase) selected from the group consisting of Kfeldspar phase, tobermorite phase, hydrogrossular phase, dicalcium silicate hydrate phase and amorphous phase.

[0048] In some embodiments, the MPM includes at least 1% by weight of K-feldspar phase and/or at most 74.5% by weight of K-feldspar phase.

[0049] In some embodiments, the MPM includes at least 0.1% by weight of tobermorite phase and/or at most 55% by weight of tobermorite phase.

[0050] In some embodiments, the MPM includes at least 0.1% by weight of hydrogrossular phase and/or at most 15% by weight of hydrogrossular phase.

[0051] (n some embodiments, the MPM includes dicalcium silicate hydrate phase.

For example, in some embodiments, the MPM includes at most 20% by weight of dicalcium silicate hydrate phase.

[0052] In some embodiments, the MPM includes amorphous phase. For example, in some embodiments, the MPM includes at most 55% by weight of amorphous phase.

[0053] In some embodiments, the composition includes at least 0.1% by weight of KC1 and/or at most 99% by weight of KC1.

[0054] In some embodiments, the MPM further includes accessorîes phase. For example, in some embodiments, the MPM includes at least 0.1% by weight of accessorîes phase and/or at most 20% by weight of accessorîes phase.

[0055] In some embodiments, the composition has a salinity index of between 5% and 1 19%.

[0056] In some embodiments, the composition includes K-feldspar phase in a range of between 1% and 74.5% by weight, tobermorite phase in a range of between 0.1% and 55% by weight, hydrogrossular phase in a range of between 0.1% and 15% by weight, dicalcium silicate hydrate phase in a range of between 0% and 20% by weight, amorphous phase in a range of between 0% and 55% by weight, sylvite phase in a range of between 0.1% and 99% by weight and accessories phase in a range of between 0.1% and 20% by weight.

[0057] In some embodiments, a percentage of K⁺ in the composition is between 5% and 55%.

[0058] In some embodiments, the composition is a fertilizer.

[0059] In some embodiments, the composition includes a soil remediation composition.

[0060] In some embodiments, the composition includes a soi! decontaminate composition.

[0061] In some embodiments, the composition includes a crop yield încreasing composition.

[0062] In some embodiments, the composition includes a soil Health improvement composition.

[0063] In some embodiments, the composition is configured to release, at different rates, at least one member selected from the group consisting of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, B, Cl, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Zn, Na, Se, Si, Co and V.

[0064] In some embodiments, the composition is configured to release at least one macronutrient to soil at different rates.

[0065] In some embodiments, the composition is configured to release at least one micronutrient to soil at different rates.

[0066] In some embodiments, the composition is configured to release at least one bénéficiai element to soil at different rates.

[0067] In some embodiments, the composition includes at most 20% by weight of tobermorite phase, and/or the composition includes at most 10% by weight of dicalcium silicate hydrate phase.

[0068] In some embodiments, the composition has a cation exchange ratio of at least 10 mmolc/kg.

[0069] In some embodiments, the composition has a cation exchange ratio of at most 500 mmolc/kg.

[00701 In some embodiments, the component includes KCI.

[0071] In some embodiments, the component includes at least one member selected from the group consisting of a macronutrient, a micronutrient and a bénéficiai element. [0072] In some embodiments, the component includes at least one member selected from the group consisting of N, P, K. Ca, Mg, S, B, Cl, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Zn, Na, Se, Si, Co and V.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0073] The drawings are prîmarîly for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limît the scope of the inventive subject matter described herein.

[0074] FIGURE 1 schematically présents certain exempiary uses for, and benefits of, compositions disclosed herein.

[0075] FIGURE 2 is a schematic représentation of the process to produce a composition containing MPM and KCI, in different proportions. For the hydrothermal process (HYD), KCI is added to the feedstock mixture (potassic framework silicate ore and an oxide, a hydroxide and/or a carbonate of at least one of an alkaline earth métal and/or an alkali meta!) and water mixture, as a powder, solution, or slurry, before the mixture undergoes hydrothermal processing. For the drying process (DRY), KCI is added to hydrothermally processed MPM precursor slurry, as a powder, liquid, or slurry, and is dried to a solid. For the powder process (PWD), KCI is physically mixed in as a solid with an MPM solid.

[0076] FIGURE 3 is a représentative SEM (scanning électron microscopy) image of drying process (DRY) mixture, showing KCI filling spaces within the MPM agglomérâtes, dîsplaying high compatibilîty between MPM and KCI. Backscatter-electron (BSE) images were taken on a Phenom ProX desktop SEM with EDS (15kV accelerating voltage, high vacuum) to confirm Chemical composition of the phases in the fîeld of view.

[0077J FIGURE 4 is a représentative SEM image showing the interaction between KCI and MPM particulaies. This interaction between the KCI and MPM can aid in preventing the leaching losses of KCI because of MPM’s capacîty to adsorb cations (CEC). BSE images were taken on a Phenom ProX desktop SEM wîth EDS (15kV accelerating voltage, high vacuum) to confirm Chemical composition of the phases in the field of view.

[0078] FIGURE 5 shows phase proportions and the mineralogical composition of the MPM:KC1 mixtures, determined by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD). Both the hydrothermal process (HYD) and drying process (DRY) show underestimated sylvite (KC1) proportions due to inhérent inhomogeneities in samplîng from the post-processing and drying stages.

[0079] FIGURE 6 shows diffraction patterns of MPM:KCI (DRY) compositions in a 1:1 mass ratio (l-MPM:l-KCl), KC1, as-prepared MPM (MPM -as-prepared), MPM rinsed with deionized water (MPM - DIW rînsed), MPM rinsed with 0.1 M citric acid (MPM - acid rinsed), and K-feldspar rich rock (Raw). Lines 1, 2, and 3 depict the presence or absence of représentative diffraction peaks for tobermorite, microcline, and KC1, respectively.

[0080] FIGURE 7 shows a schematic représentation of the weight percent of K in a 1:1 mass ratio (ί-MPM: 1-KC1) composition. The columns represent total K, watersoluble K, and an aggregation of other types of K in the composition, respectively. K contents are numerically expressed in weight percentages.

[0081] FIGURE 8 shows the volumétrie PSD of a l : l mass ratio (I -MPM:1-KC1) composition (DRY) prepared using method 2 of FIGURE 2 over!aid with the PSD of the starting material i.e., ultrapotassic K-feldspar rock powder. PSDs shown were obtained from laser diffraction measurements.

[0082] FIGURE 9 shows a schematic représentation of greenhouse protocol for testing the cumulative and resîdual effects of an MPM:KC1 composition.

[0083] FIGURE 10 shows a schematic représentation of greenhouse protocol for testing the leaching losses of different compositions (MPM:KC1 composition). DAE means days after emergence of green shoots.

[0084] FIGURE 11 shows a schematic représentation of greenhouse protocol for testing the efficacy of an MPM;KCI composition.

[0085] FIGURES 12A-C show greenhouse data for compositions for both the first and second cycles.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0086] The disclosure relates to compositions that include an MPM and at least one additional component, as well related methods of préparation and use. The properties of the compositions can be adjusted by modîfying any of a number of processing parameters (including, but not limited to, processing time and température, drying conditions, processing atmosphère, ratio of raw materials in the feedstock mixture, surface area of the raw materials) such that the properties of the resulting composition can be adapted and aligned to suit the needs and/or desires of a wide variety of applications (e.g., agricultural, heavy métal contaminated soil remediation and other commercial and/or industrial). It should be appreciated that various concepts introduced above and discussed in greater detail below that are encompassed by the présent disclosure may be impiemented in any of numerous ways, as the disclosed concepts are not limited to any particular manner of implémentation. Examples of spécifie implémentations and applications are provided primarily for illustrative purposes.

[0087] FIGURE 1 schematically depicts représentative uses for, and benefîts of, compositions disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the compositions can be used as a nutrient source (e.g., as a source of K, Ca and/or Si), in some embodiments, the compositions can be used to provide a healthy environment for microbiota. In some embodiments, the compositions can be used to reduce nutrient leaching losses (e.g., K leaching) and/or for multi-stage nutrient release. In some embodiments, the compositions can be used to provide high water rétention capacity. In some embodiments, the compositions hâve the effect of providing a residual effect to the soil and creatîng a nutrient storage. In some embodiments, the compositions are substantially chlorîde free and présent low salinity. In some embodiments, the compositions can be used in heavy métal soil remediation. For example, in some embodiments, the compositions can be used to immobilize heavy metals from contaminated soil. Examples of heavy metals include cadmium (Cd), Arsenic (As) and lead (Pb). In some embodiments, the compositions disclosed herein can exhibit a combination of two or more of these properties.

[0088] Throughout this disclosure, there are places where référencé is made to a composition that includes MPM and KO (sylvite phase). It is to be understood that in such examples, instead of, or in addition to, K.C1 (sylvite phase), the composition may include one or more other additional components, such as, for example, one or more micronutrients (e.g., nitrogen (N), phosphores (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnésium (Mg) and sulfur (S)), one or more micronutrients (e.g., boron (B), chlorîne (Cl), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganèse (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni) and zinc (Zn)) and/or one or more other bénéficiai éléments (e.g., sodium (Na), sélénium (Se), Silicon (Si), cobalt (Co) and vanadium (V).

[0089] In general, such an additional component can be introduced as part of any of the processes disclosed herein. As an example, in some embodiments, such an additional component is introduced via a source of the component in a manner similar to that described herein with respect to KC1. Generally, a source of an additional component can be used in any appropriate form. Examples of such forms include crystals, salts, powder, liquid (e.g., solution) and/or slurry. An exemplary and non-limiting list of source materials is as follows. Examples of phosphores (P) sources include phosphate rock (e.g., raw material for phosphate fertilizer production), phosphoric acid (e.g., intermediate product from phosphate fertîlizer production chain) and monoammonîmum phosphate. Examples of nitrogen (N) sources include ammonia and urea. Examples of potassium (K) sources include KC1 and sulphate of potash (SOP). Examples of magnésium (Mg) sources include magnesia and dolomitic lime. Examples of suiphur (S) sources include gypsum, sulphur and ammonium sulphate. Examples of calcium (Ca) sources includes gypsum and dolomitic lime. An example of a copper (Cu) source is copper sulphate. Examples of boron (B) sources include borates, borax and borîc acid. An example of a zinc (Zn) source îs zinc sulphate. An examp le of a manganèse (Mn) source is manganèse sulphate. Additional appropriate sources of these and other components are known.

[0090] A flow chart providing an overview of certain embodiments of processes according to the présent disclosure is provided in FIGURE 2. Described in more detail below are various embodiments of the processes depicted in FIGURE 2.

[0091] In some embodiments, the présent disclosure provides a process of preparing a composition, wherein the process includes using as a starting material a mixture including particles of one or more potassic Framework silicate and one or more compounds selected from an alkali métal oxide, an alkali métal hydroxide, an alkaline earth métal oxide, and alkaline earth métal hydroxide, and combinations thereof, followed by contact with water. This mixture is subjected to a température and pressure for a time sufficient to form intermediate material, in which the potassic framework silicate starting material îs altered. The resulting material includes, for example, an intermediate slurry or powder or unaltered form of potassic framework silicate enriched with alkaline earth métal ions. As shown in method 2 in FIGURE 2, in the next step, KCI is added (e.g., in an amount sufficient to the slurry with mixing until ail KCI is dissolved) to form a mixed slurry or powder (e.g., in the desired weight ratio). Then, the slurry or powder is dried to form a composition including an MPM and KCI. The composition can provide both immédiate release of K⁺ (e.g., from soluble portions of a composition) as well as extended release of potassium.

[0092] In various embodiments of the processes described herein, as shown in method 3 in FIGURE 2, KCI is added and mixed as a powder to MPM, after the dryîng step.

[0093] In various embodiments of the processes described herein, as shown in method 1 în FIGURE 2, KCI is added to the mixture of potassic framework silicate ore and an oxide, a hydroxide and/or a carbonate of at least one of an alkaline earth métal and an alkali métal and water before hydrothermally processing to form an intermediate slurry or powder, which is subsequently hydrothermal 1 y processed and dried to yield a composition which includes MPM and KCI.

[0094] In some embodiments, a process of making a composition that includes an MPM and KCI can in volve two steps selected from method I, method 2 and method 3 depicted in FIGURE 2.

[0095] The altered intermediate formed, can be e.g., an altered form of potassic framework silicate (e.g., potassium feldspar (KAlSijOs), leucite (KAISîzOû), kalsilite (KAIS1O4) and nepheline (Na3KAl4SÎ40iû), ultrapotassic syenite, or any of the other such materials disclosed herein) containing some amount of an alkali métal or alkaline earth métal exchanged from other materials (e.g., CaO, Ca(OH)2, CaCOj, and combinations thereof, etc. and/or KCI présent în the mixture heated in the presence of water (optionally under pressure and/or modifled atmosphère as described in various embodiments herein). [0096] The methods disclosed herein can be carried out as a batch process or under continuons conditions. The step of forming a mixture of the particles as described herein above typîcally includes co-grinding or separately comminuting using methods known în the art, such as crushing, mîlling, etc. of dry or slurried materials, for example using jawcrushers, gyratory crushers, cône crushers, bail mills, rod mi ils, etc. as described herein. The resulting mixture can be sized as desired, via sîeves, screens, etc. known in the art. In some embodiments of the présent methods, suîtable mean particle sizes range from about 1 nm to about 2mm. In some embodiments, the mean particle size is about I nm, about 10 nm, about 20 nm, about 30 nm, about 40 nm, about 50 nm, about 60 nm, about 70 nm, about 80 nm, about 90 nm, about 100 nm, about 200 nm, about 300 nm, about 400 nm, about 500 nm, about 600 nm, about 700 nm, about 800 nm, about 900 nm, about ! pm, about 10 pm, about 20 pm, about 30 μιη, about 40 pm, about 50 pm, about 60 pm, about 70 pm, about 80 μπι, about 90 μπι, about 100 μηι, about 1 10 pm, about 120 μηι, about 130 pm, about 140 μιη, about 150 μηι, about 160 μιη, about 170 μιη, about 180 μιη, about 190 μηι, about 200 μηι, about 210 pm, about 220 μιη, about 230 μιη, about 240 μιη, about 250 μιη, about 260 μιη, about 270 μιη, about 280 μιη, about 290 μιη, about 330 μιη, about 400 pm, about 500 μιη, about 600 μιη, about 700 μπι, about 800 μιη, about 900 μπι, about 1 mm, about 2 mm, including ail ranges and values there between. If desîred, the materials can hâve similar particle sîzes, or different particle sîzes as described above.

[0097] In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the step (a) of forming a mixture is performed by milling (i.e., grinding, comminuting, pulverizing, etc.) the particles, either separately or together. In some embodiments, the unmîlled particles are first combined and then subsequentiy milled to form the desîred feed mixture (joint milling). In some embodiments, each of the materials is separately milled prior to combination ofthe materials. In some embodiments, only one is separately milled prior to combination of the materials, such that a milled material is combined with unmilled materials. In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the milling can be bail milling, fluid energy milling, wet milling, media milling, high pressure homogenization milling, cryogénie milling, rod milling, autogenous milling, semî-autonomous milling, buhrstone milling, vertical shaft impactor milling, tower milling, or any combination thereof.

[0098] Contactîng the mixture with water can be carried out by any suitable method, such as adding water to the mixture, or by adding the mixture to water, or by sequentially or simultaneously adding the water and mixture to a suitable vessel, such as a reactor vessel în which the combination of water and the mixture can be heated to a température, optionally under a pressure and/or suitable atmosphère as described herein to form MPM. This process can be carried out in batch or continuons mode.

[0099] In some embodiments, the présent disclosure provides a method of preparing MPM, which has improved release of K⁺ compared to the potassic Framework silicate starting material from which it was prepared. In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the alkali métal silicate starting materials of the processes of the présent disclosure are selected from a non-limîting group of materials including K-feldspar, kalsilîte, nepheline, trachyte, rhyolite, ultrapotassîc syenite, leucite, nephelîne syenite, phonolite, fenite, aplîte, pegmatite, and combinations thereof.

(001001 In some embodiments, the one or more compounds selected from an alkali métal oxide, an alkali métal hydroxide, an aikaline earth métal oxide, and alkaline earth métal hydroxide, and combinations thereof include calcium oxide, calcium hydroxide, or mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more compounds selected from an alkali métal oxide, an alkali métal hydroxide, an alkaline earth métal oxide, and alkaline earth métal hydroxide, and combinations thereof include calcium hydroxide. In some embodiments, the one or more compounds selected from an alkali métal oxide, an alkali métal hydroxide, an alkaline earth métal oxide, and alkaline earth métal hydroxide, and combinations thereof include calcium oxide. In certain embodiments, the one or more compounds selected from an alkali métal oxide, an alkali meta! hydroxide, an alkaline earth métal oxide, and alkaline earth métal hydroxide, and combinations thereof include lithium oxide, sodium oxide, potassium oxide, rubidium oxide, césium oxide, lithium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, rubidium hydroxide, and/or césium hydroxide. In some embodiments, the one or more compounds selected from an alkali métal oxide, an alkali métal hydroxide, an alkaline earth métal oxide, and alkaline earth métal hydroxide, and combinations thereof include magnésium oxide, calcium oxide, béryllium oxide, strontium oxide, radium oxide, magnésium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, béryllium hydroxide, strontium hydroxide, and/or radium hydroxide.

[00101] In some embodiments, the mixture includes a calcium-bearing compound and a silicon-bearîng compound. In various embodiments of the présent disclosure, the ratio of the caicium-containîng material (i.e., CaO, CaOH, CaCOs,(Ca,Mg)CO3.and combinations thereof) to the Silicon bearing material (i.e., potassium framework silicate) can be used to modulate the mineralogy, extraction, buffering capacity, as well as other properties of the composition (e.g., an MPM:KC1 composition). In various embodiments, the Ca:Si molar ratio in the mixture is about 0.01 to 0.6. In some embodiments, the Ca:Si ratio is about 0.01, about 0.05, about 0.1, about 0.15, about 0.20, about 0.25, about 0.3, about 0.35, about 0.4, about 0.45, about 0.5, about 0.55, about 0.6, including ail ranges and values there between.

[00102] In various embodiments of the method described herein, the mixture from step (a) is contacted with water. In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the process uses a weight excess of water relative to the potassic framework silicate starting material. In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the weight excess of water relative to the potassic framework silicate starting material as a weight ratio is about 0.1:1, about 0.2:1, about 0.3:1, about 0.4:1, about 0.5; 1, about 0.6:1, about 0.7:1, about 0.8:1, about 0.9:1, about 1:1, about 2:i, about 3:1, 4:1, about 5:1, about 6:1, about 7:1, about 8:1, about 9:1, about 10:1, about 11:1, about 12:1, about 13:1, about 14:1, about 15:1, 1 about 6:1, about 17:1, about 18:1, about 19:1, and about 20:1.

[00103] In some embodiments, the mi lied feed mixture that is contacted with water is introduced into a hydrothermal processing apparatus, e.g., an autoclave, a pressurized agitation tank, a pipe reactor, a static mixer or other suitable container or reaction vessel known in the art for hydrolhermal processing. In certain embodiments, reaction conditions such as mixing, atmosphère, time, température, and pressure can be modulated as a way to tune the properties of the product. In certain embodiments, modification of these parameters can be used to adjust the relative amounts of the constituent phases in the MPM, including but not limited to, amorphous phase, dicalcium silicate hydrate, hydrogarnet, tobermorite, and K-feldspar.

[00104] In various embodiments of the présent dîsclosure, the method uses pressure ranges of from about 1 -300 atm. In some embodiments, the method uses pressures of about 1 atm, about 10 atm, of about 20 atm, of about 30 atm, of about 40 atm, of about 50 atm, of about 60 atm, of about 70 atm, of about 80 atm, of about 90 atm, of about 100 atm, of about 110 atm, of about 120 atm, of about 130 atm, of about 140 atm, of about 150 atm, of about 160 atm, of about 170 atm, of about 180 atm, of about 190 atm, of about 200 atm, of about 210 atm, of about 220 atm, of about 230 atm, of about 240 atm, of about 250 atm, of about 260 atm, of about 270 atm, of about 280 atm, of about 290 atm, of about 300 atm, and any ranges of values between any of these values. In some embodiments of the présent dîsclosure, the method uses température ranges of from about 90°C-400°C. In some embodiments of the présent dîsclosure, the method uses a température of about 90 °C, about 100 “C, about 110 °C, about 120 °C, about 130 °C, about 140 °C, about 1 50 °C, about 160 °C, about 170 °C, about 180 °C, about 190 °C, about 200 °C, about 210 °C, about 220 °C, about 230 °C, about 240 °C, about 250 °C, about 260 °C, about 270 °C, about 280 °C, about 290 °C, about 300 °C, about 310 °C, about 320 °C, about 330 °C, about 340 °C, about 350 °C, about 360 °C, about 370 °C, about 380 °C, about 390 °C, about 400 °C and ail ranges of values between any of these values. In some embodiments of the présent dîsclosure, the duration of this step of the process ranges from about 0.01 to 6 h. In some embodiments of the présent dîsclosure, the duration of this step of the process is about 0.01 h, about 0.02 h, about 0.03 h, about 0.04 h, about 0.05 h, about 0.06 h, about 0.07 h, about 0.08 h, about 0.09 h, about 0.1 h, about 0.2 h, about 0.3 h, about 0.4 h. about 0.5 h, about 0.6 h, about 0.7 h, about 0.8 h, about 0.9 h, about 1 h, about 2 h, about 3 h, about 4 h, about 5 h, about 6 h,, and ail ranges of values there between. In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the method uses atmospheric conditions that include, but are not limited to, argon (Ar), nitrogen (Ni), air, carbon dioxide (CO;), or mixtures thereof.

[00105] In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the method includes a drying step. In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the drying step is carried out at a température of from about 100 ’C to about 200 ’C. In some embodiments, the drying step 10 can be carried out under reduced pressure conditions al températures ranging from 25 ’C to about 200 °C. In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the drying of the method is carried out at a température of about 25 ’C, about 30 °C, about 40 ’C, about 50 ’C, about 60 ’C, about 70 ’C, about 80 ’C, about 90 ’C, about 100 ’C, about 110’C, about ! 20 ’C, about 130 ’C, about 140 ’C, about 150 ’C, about 160 ’C, about 170 ’C, about 180 ’C, about 190 ’C, about 200 ’C, and ail ranges between any of these values. In some embodiments, the drying step can be carried out under ambient températures, by simply allowing the supernatant water to evaporate. In some embodiments, the drying step can occur at any of the disclosed températures, with or without agitation, for a duration of about 0.0] to 48h. In some embodiments, the drying step is carried out for a duration of 20 about 0.01 h, about 0.02 b, about 0.03 h, about 0.04 h, about 0.05 h, about 0.06 h, about 0.07 h, about 0.08 h, about 0.09 h, about 0.1 h, about 0.2 h, about 0.3 h, about 0.4 h, about 0.5 h, about 0.6 h, about 0.7 h, about 0.8 h, about 0.9 h, about 1 h, about 2 h, about 3 h, about 4 h, about 5 h, about 6 h, about 7 h, about 8 h, about 9 h, about 10 h, about 11 h, about 12 h, about 13 h, about 14 h, about 15 h, about 16 h, about 17 h, about 18 h, about

19 h, or about 20 h, 21 h, about 22 h, about 23 h, about 24 h, about 25 h, about 26 h, about h, about 28 h, about 29 h, about 30 h, about 31 h, about 32 h, about 33 h, about 34 h, about 35 h, about 36 h, about 37 h, about 38 h, about 39 h, or about 40 h including ail ranges and values between any of these values.

[00106] In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the method includes canying 30 out the drying step, îndependently, under an inert or a reactive atmosphère. In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the inert atmosphère includes Ar or N;, and the reactive atmosphère includes air, oxygen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxîde, or ammonia. In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, this step of the process is carried out under an inert atmosphère including Ar, or a reactive atmosphère including air or carbon dioxide. In some embodiments of the present dîsclosure, this step of the process is carried out under an inert atmosphère including Ar, or a réactivé atmosphère including air or carbon dioxide.

[00107] In some embodiments, a reactive atmosphère can include an inert gas such as Ar or N2, provided that other gases in the atmosphère are reactive. For example, air is a mixture of Ni, which is generally inert, and oxygen, (as well as traces of CO2) which is reactive. The term reactive atmosphère thus does not exclude gas compositions, which include inert gases, provided at least one of the gases in the atmosphère are reactive. The percentage of reactive gas as described herein in a reactive atmosphère is at least about 1 %, but can be up to 100% (by volume), including about 1 %, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 100% by volume, including ail ranges and subranges between any of these values. Any combination of reactive and inert gas described herein can be used. The conditions used for drying the altered intermediate material formed also influence the fondamental properties (e.g., mineralogy of the ultimate composition, including eiemental extraction properties, porosity) of the solid.

100108] In some embodiments of the present dîsclosure, the final composition is produced by granulation with a feed of MPM and at least one additional component (e.g., KCI).

[00109] In certain embodiments, the weight ratio of an MPM:KC1 in the composition is at least 0.01:1 (e.g., at 0.05:1, at least 0.1:1, at least 0.2:1, at least 0.3:1, at least 0.4:1, at least 0.5:1, at least 0.6:1, at least 0.7:1, at least 0.8:1, at least 0.9:1) and at most 100:1 (e.g., at most 90:1, at most 80:1, at most 70: i, at most 60:1, at most 50:1, at most 40:1, at most 30:1, at most 20:1, at most 10:1, at most 1:1). In some embodiments the weight ratio of an MPM:KC1 in the composition is between 0.01:1 and 100:1. In certain embodiments the weight ratio of the MPM:KCI in the composition is between 0.1:1 and 20:1.

[00110] In general, a composition may hâve a CEC as desired. For example, in some embodiments, a composition can hâve a CEC of at least 10 millimoles per kilogram (mmolc/kg) (e.g., at least 15 mmolc/kg, at least 20 mmolc/kg, at least 25 mmolc/kg, at least 30 mmolc/kg, at least 35 mmolc/kg, at least 40 mmolc/kg, at least 45 mmolc/kg, at least 50 mmolc/kg, at least 55 mmolc/kg, at least 60 mmolc/kg, at least 65 mmolc/kg, at least 70 mmolc/kg, at least 75 mmolc/kg, at least 80 mmolc/kg, at least 85 mmolc/kg, at least 90 mmolc/kg, at least 95 mmolc/kg, at least 100 mmolc/kg, at least 125 mmol/kg, at least 150 mmolc/kg, at least 175 mmol/kg, and/or at least 200 mmolc/kg) and/or at most 500 mmolc/kg (e.g., at most 450 mmolc/kg, at most 400 mmolc/kg, at most 350 mmolc/kg, at most 300 mmolc/kg, at most 250 mmolc/kg, at most 200 mmol/kg).

[00111] In various embodiments of the présent disclosure, wherein KCI is added to a slurry of an MPM precursor, followed by drying to a powder, the MPM:KCI composition can include K-feldspar phase in a range of between 1% and 74.5% by weight, tobennorite phase in a range of between 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 50% by weight, between 0% and 45% by weight, between 0% and 40% by weight, between 0% and 35% by weight, between 0% and 30% by weight, between 0% and 25% by weight, between 0% and 20% by weight), hydrogrossular phase in a range of between 0% and 15% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 12% by weight), dicalcîum silicate hydrate phase in a range of between 0% and 20% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 15% by weight, between 0% and 12% by weight, between 0% and 10% by weight), amorphous phase in a range of between 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 45% by weight), sylvite phase in a range of between 0.1% and 99% by weight and accessories phase in a range of between 0.1% and 20% by weight.

[00112] In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, wherein KCI powder is physically mixed with an MPM powder, the MPM:KCI composition can include Kfeldspar phase in a range of between 1% and 74.5% by weight, tobennorite phase in a range of 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 50% by weight, between 0% and 45% by weight, between 0% and 40% by weight, between 0% and 35% by weight, between 0% and 30% by weight, between 0% and 25% by weight, between 0% and 20% by weight), hydrogrossular phase in a range of between 0% and 15% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 12% by weight), dicalcîum silicate hydrate phase in a range of between 0% and 20% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 15% by weight, between 0% and 12% by weight, between 0% and 10% by weight), amorphous phase in a range of between 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 45% by weight), sylvite phase in a range of between 0.1 % and 99% by weight and accessories phase in a range of between 0.1 % and 20% by weight.

[00113] In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, KCI (e.g., as a powder, a solution, and/or a slurry) is added to the mixture of potassîc framework silicate ore and an oxide, a hydroxide and/or a carbonate of at least one of an alkaline earth meta! and an alkali métal and water, followed by hydrothermal processing and then drying, the MPM:KC1 composition can include K-feldspar phase in a range of between 1 % and 74.5% by weight, tobermorite phase in a range of 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 50% by weight, between 0% and 45% by weight, between 0% and 40% by weight, between 0% and 35% by weight, between 0% and 30% by weight, between 0% and 25% by weight, between 0% and 20% by weight), hydrogrossular phase in a range of between 0% and 15% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 12% by weight), dicalcium silicate hydrate phase in a range of between 0% and 20% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 15% by weight, between 0% and 12% by weight, between 0% and 10% by weight), amorphous phase in a range of between 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 45% by weight), sylvite phase in a range of between 0.1% and 99% by weight and accessories phase in a range of between 0.1% and 20% by weight.

[00114] In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the MPM:KC1 composition can include K-feldspar phase in a range of between 1% and 74.5% by weight, tobermorite phase in a range of 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 50% by weight, between 0% and 45% by weight, between 0% and 40% by weight, between 0% and 35% by weight, between 0% and 30% by weight, between 0% and 25% by weight, between 0% and 20% by weight), hydrogrossular phase in a range of between 0% and 15% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 12% by weight), dicalcium silicate hydrate phase in a range of between 0% and 20% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 15% by weight, between 0% and 12% by weight, between 0% and 10% by weight), amorphous phase in a range of between 1% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 1% and 45% by weight), sylvite phase in a range of between 0.1% and 99% by weight and accessories phase in a range of between 0.1% and 20% by weight.

[00115] In certain embodiments, the MPM:KC1 composition can include about 1 wl. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, about 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 19 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, about 21 wt. %, about 22 wt. %, about 23 wt. %, about 24 wt. %, about 25 wt. %, about 26 wt. %, about 27 wt. %, about 28 wt. %, about 29 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 31 wt. %, about 32 wt. %, about 33 wt. %, about 34 wt. % about 35 wt. %. about 36 wt. %, about 37 wt. %, about 38 wt. %, about 39 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, about 41 wt. %, about 42 wt. %, about 43 wt. %, about 44 wt. %, about 45 wt. %. about 46 wt. %, about 47 wt. %, about 48 wt. %, about 49 wt. %, about 50 wt. %, about 60 wt. %, about 70 wt. %, or about 74.5 wt. % of a K-feldspar phase, including ail ranges and values there between.

[00116] In some embodiments, the MPM:KCI composition can include about 0 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, about 25 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 35 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 50 wt. %, about 55 wt. % of a tobermorite phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00117] In some embodiments, the MPM:KCI composition can include about 0 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt.% hydrogrossular phase including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00118] In some embodiments, the MPMiKCI composition can include about 0 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, about 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 19 wt. %, about 20 wt. % of a dicalcium silicate hydrate phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00119] In certain embodiments, the MPM:KC1 composition can include about i wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about ï 3 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, about 22 wt. %, about 24 wt. %, about 26 wt. %, about 28 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 32 wt. %, about 34 wt. %, about 36 wt. %, about 38 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 50 wt.%, about 55 wt. % of an amorphous phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00120] In certain embodiments, the MPM:KC1 composition can include about 0.1 wt. %, about 0.2 wt. %, about 0.3 wt. %, about 0.4 wt. %, about 0.5 wt. %, about 0.6 wt. %, about 0.7 wt. %, about 0.8 wt. %, about 0.9 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %.

about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, about 22 wt. %, about 24 wt. %, about 26 wt. %, about 28 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 32 wt. %, about 34 wt. %, about 35 wt. %, about 36 wt. %, about 37 wt. %, about 38 wt. %, about 39 wt. %, about 40 wt. %. about 4] wt. %, about 42 wt. %, about 43 wt. %, about 44 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 46 wt. %, about 47 wt. %, about 48 wt. %, about 49 wt. %, about 50 wt. %, about 60 wt. %, about 70 wt. %, about 80 wt. %, about 90 wt. %, about 99 wt. % of a sylvite phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00121] In certain embodiments, the MPM:KC1 composition can include about 0.1 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %. about 19 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, of accessorîes phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00122] In certain embodiments, increasing the Ca:Si ratio in the feedstock drives product formation towards the formation of dicalcium silicate hydrate and/or amorphous phase. In certain embodiments, increasing the Ca:Si ratio in the feedstock has the concurrent effect of diminishing the tobermorîte phase. In some embodiments, the dicalcium silicate hydrate phase can be obtaîned at higher Ievels than the tobermorîte phase by increasing the Ca:Sî ratio in the feed mixture. In various embodiments, the Ca:Si ratio is about 0.01 to 0.6. In certain embodiments, the Ca:Si ratio is about 0.01, about 0.02, about 0.03, about 0.04, about 0.05, about 0.05, about 0.06, about 0.07, about 0.08, about 0.09, about 0.1, about 0.125, about 0.150, about 0.175, about 0.2, about 0.225, about 0.250, about 0.275, about 0.3, about 0.325, about 0.350, about 0.375, about 0.4, about 0.425, about 0.450, about 0.475, about 0.5, about 0.525, about 0.550, about 0.575, about 0.6, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00123] In certain embodiments of the présent process, the percentage of K⁺ in the MPM:KC1 composition is in a range of between 1% and 59%.

[00124J In certain embodiments of the présent process, the percentage of Cl in the in the MPM:KCI is in a range of between 0.5% and 48%.

[00125] In certain embodiments of the présent process, the salinity index of MPM;KC1 composition is in a range of between 5% and 130%.

[00126] In certain embodiments, the weight ratio of the MPM:KCI in the composition is at least 0.01:1 (e.g., at 0.05:1, at least 0.1:1, at least 0.2:1, at least 0.3:1, at least 0.4:1, at least 0.5:1, at least 0.6:1, at least 0.7:1, at least 0.8:1, at least 0.9:1) and/or at most 100:1 (e.g., at most 90:1, at most 80:1, at most 70:1, at most 60; I, at most 50:1, at most 40:1, at most 30:1, at most 20:1, at most 10:1, at most 1:1). In some embodiments the weight ratio of the MPM:KC1 în the composition îs between 0.01:1 and 100:1. In certain embodiments the weight ratio of the MPM:KCI in the composition is between 0.1:1 and 20:1.

[00127] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the MPM:KC1 composition îs prepared by adding KO to a MPM precursor slurry before drying to a powder, and the MPM:KC1 composition includes K-feldspar phase in a range of between 14.5% and 74.5% by weight, tobermorite phase in a range of 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 50% by weight, between 0% and 45% by weight, between 0% and 40% by weight, between 0% and 35% by weight, between 0% and 30% by weight, between 0% and 25% by weight, between 0% and 20% by weight), hydrogrossular phase in a range of between 0% and 15% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 12% by weight), dicalcium silicate hydrate phase in a range of between 0% and 20% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 15% by weight, between 0% and 12% by weight, between 0% and 10% by weight), amorphous phase in a range of between 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 45% by weight), sylvite phase in a range of between 0.99% and 50% by weight and accessories phase in a range of between 0.1% and 20% by weight.

[00128] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the MPM:KC1 composition is prepared by physically mixing KC1 powder with an MPM powder after the drying step, and the MPM:KC1 composition includes K-feldspar phase in a range of between 14.5% and 74.5% by weight, tobermorite phase in a range of 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 50% by weight, between 0% and 45% by weight, between 0% and 40% by weight, between 0% and 35% by weight, between 0% and 30% by weight, between 0% and 25% by weight, between 0% and 20% by weight), hydrogrossular phase in a range of between 0% and 15% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 12% by weight), dicalcium silicate hydrate phase in a range of between 0% and 20% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 15% by weight, between 0% and 12% by weight, between 0% and 10% by weight), amorphous phase in a range of between 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 45% by weight), sylvite phase in a range of between 0.99% and 50% by weight and accessories phase in a range of between 0.1% and 20% by weight.

[00129] In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the MPM :KC1 composition is prepared by adding KCI (e.g., as a powder, a solution, and/or a slurry) to a mixture of potassic framework silicate ore and an oxide, a hydroxîde and/or a carbonate of at least one of an alkaline earth métal and an alkali métal and water before hydrothermal processing and subséquent dryîng, and the MPM:KCI composition includes K-feldspar phase in a range of between 14.5% and 74.5% by weight, tobermorite phase in a range of between 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 50% by weight, between 0% and 45% by weight, between 0% and 40% by weight, between 0% and 35% by weight, between 0% and 30% by weight, between 0% and 25% by weight, between 0% and 20% by weight), hydrogrossular phase in a range of between 0% and 15% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 12% by weight), dicalcium silicate hydrate phase in a range of between 0% and 20% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 15% by weight, between 0% and 12% by weight, between 0% and 10% by weight), amorphous phase in a range of between 1% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 1% and 45% by weight), sylvite phase in a range of between 0.99% and 50% by weight and accessories phase in a range of between û.1% and 20% by weight.

[00130] In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the MPM:KC1 composition can include K-feldspar phase in a range of between 14.5% and 74.5% by weight, tobermorite phase in a range of 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 50% by weight, between 0% and 45% by weight, between 0% and 40% by weight, between 0% and 35% by weight, between 0% and 30% by weight, between 0% and 25% by weight, between 0% and 20% by weight), hydrogrossular phase in a range of between 0% and 15% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 12% by weight), dicalcium silicate hydrate phase in a range of between 0% and 20% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 15% by weight, between 0% and 12% by weight, between 0% and 10% by weight), amorphous phase in a range of between 1% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 1% and 45% by weight), sylvite phase in a range of between 0.99% and 50% by weight and accessories phase in a range of between 0.1% and 20% by weight.

[00131] in some embodiments, the MPM:KC1 composition can include at least about I wt. % K-feldspar phase. In certain embodiments, the MPM:KCI composition can include about 14.5 wt. %, at most about 14.5 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, at most about 15 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, at most about 20 wt. %, about 25 wt. %, at most about 25 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, at most about 30 wt. %, about 35 wt. %, at most about 35 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, at most about 40 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, at most about 45 wt. %, about 50 wt. %, at most about 50 wt. %, about 55 wt. %, at most about 55 wt. %, about 60 wt. %, at most about 60 wt. %, about 64 wt. %, at most about 64 wt. %, about 70 wt. %, at most about 70 wt. %, at most about 74.5 wt. % of a K-feldspar phase, including ail ranges and values there between.

[00132] In some embodiments, the MPM:KCI composition can include about 0 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, about 25 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 35 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 50 wt. %, about 55 wt. % of a tobermorite phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00133] In some embodiments, the MPM:KCI composition can include about 0 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. % 15 wt.% of a hydrogrossular phase including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00134] In some embodiments, the MPM:KC1 composition can include about 0 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 1 1 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, about 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 19 wt. %, 20 wt. % of a dicalcîum silicate hydrate phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00135] In some embodiments, the MPM:KC1 composition can include about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, about 22 wt. %, about 24 wt. %, about 26 wt. %, about 28 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 32 wt. %, about 34 wt. %, about 36 wt. %, about 38 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, about 45 wt. % , about 50 wt. %, about 55 wt. % of an amorphous phase, including ali ranges between any of these values.

[00136] In some embodiments, the MPM:KCI composition can include about 0.99 wt. %, about 0.2 wt. %, about 0.3 wt. %, about 0.4 wt. %, about 0.5 wt. %, about 0.6 wt. %, about 0.7 wt. %, about 0.8 wt. %, about 0.9 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, about 22 wt. %, about 24 wt. %, about 26 wt. %, about 28 wt. %. about 30 wt. %, about 32 wt. %, about 34 wt. %, about 35 wt. %, about 36 wt. %, about 37 wt. %, about 38 wt. %, about 39 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, about 41 wt. %, about 42 wt. %, about 43 wt. %, about 44 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 46 wt. %, about 47 wt. %, about 48 wt. %, about 49 wt. %, about 50 wt. %, of a sylvite phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00137] In some embodiments, the MPM:KC1 composition can include about 0.1 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 19 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, of accessories phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00138] In some embodiments, a method includes using a Ca:Si ratio of about 0.01 to 0.6. In certain embodiments, the Ca:Si ratio is about 0.01, about 0.02, about 0.03, about 0.04, about 0.05, about 0.05, about 0.06, about 0.07, about 0.08, about 0.09, about 0.1, about 0.125, about 0.150, about 0.175, about 0.2, about 0.225, about 0.250, about 0.275, about 0.3, about 0.325, about 0.350, about 0.375, about 0.4, about 0.425, about 0.450, about 0.475, about 0.5, about 0.525, about 0.550, about 0.575, about 0.6, including all ranges between any of these values.

[00139] In some embodiments, the percentage of K⁺ in the MPM:KO composition is in a range of between 8% and 3 1%.

[00140] In some embodiments, the percentage of Cl in the in the MPM:KC1 composition is in a range of between 7% and 29%.

[00141] Many of the compositions disclosed herein hâve been, or can be, characterized by X-Ray Powder Diffraction (XRPD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Chemical extractions (as well as other techniques known to the skilled artisan), which confirmed, or can confirm, that the composition does in fact possess the above-mentioned désirable properties. An understanding of the mineralogy of the compositions has been gained from XRPD results (FIGURE 6) and imaging (FIGURES 4 and 5), such that the minerai phases composing the MPM:KO composition can be îdentified and quantifîed, as well as theîr degree of elemental inclusions with respect to stoichiometric Chemical formulae.

[00142J From the characterization, it was found that a composition can exhibit complex mîneralogy and chemîcal properties. The disclosed compositions hâve mean particle size range from about 1 nm to about 5 mm. In certain embodiments, the mean particle sîze is about is about 1 nm, about 10 nm, about 20 nm, about 30 nm, about 40 nm, about 50 nm, about 60 nm, about 70 nm, about 80 nm, about 90 nm, about 100 nm, about 200 nm, about 300 nm, about 400 nm, about 500 nm, about 600 nm, about 700 nm, about 800 nm, about 900 nm, about 1 pm, about 10 pm, about 20 pm, about 30 pm, about 40 pm, about 50 pm, about 60 pm, about 70 pm, about 80 pm, about 90 pm, about 100 pm, about 110 pm, about 120 pm, about 130 pm, about 140 pm, about 150 pm, about 160 pm, about 170 pm, about 180 pm, about 190 pm, about 200 pm, about 210 pm, about 220 pm, about 230 pm, about 240 pm, about 250 pm, about 260 pm, about 270 pm, about 280 pm, about 290 pm, about 300 pm, about 400 pm, about 500 pm, about 600 pm, about 700 pm, about 800 pm, about 900 pm, about I mm, about 2 mm, about 3 mm, about 4 mm, or about 5 mm, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00143] Herein, it is recognized that the mineralogy (along with other features) of an MPM can be modified to optimize the nutrient-release characteristics of the composition (e.g., an MPM:KCI composition) to meet the needs or desires of a variety of soils, along with other industrial applications. Chemical composition analysis from chemîcal extractions were correlated with XRPD analyses to assess the chemîcal stabîlity of the phases in the composition (e.g., an MPM:KC1 composition - FIGURE 6). The percentage of mass iost from various extractants are shown in Table i to elucidate the various types of K présent in an embodiment of the disclosed disclosure. Notably, Chemical stabîlity is related to the ability for fertilizers or soil amendments to release plant nutrients, and should be contextualîzed in an agronomie context.

Table I. Percentage of mass lost from extraction procedure

1 . Extractan:.........................................................
Sample	DI water	Citric acid
MPM 1-MPM:1-KCI	6% 52%	66% 85%

[00144] As described in detail throughout this disclosure and in the Examples that follow, a prominent feature of the MPM:KC1 composition is the availability of potassium (K), as evidenced by a water-solubility test (FIGURE 7). Moreover, the nature (e.g., rate and pattern) of the release is in contrast to the purely water-soluble-K-containing KCl-fertilizers that dissolve rapidly and resuit in a sudden increase of local and CI^- concentrations, which in turn drastically perturbs the equilibria between exchangeable and nonexchangeable K. Furthermore, in KC1 the major fraction of K is lost by leaching, a phenomenon that proceeds at a relativeiy slow rate in temperate soîls, but îs exacerbated and accelerated in tropical soils.

[00145] In some embodiments, the présent!y disclosed processes are used to préparé a MPM:KC1 composition that releases K⁺ and the amount of K⁺ released from the alkali métal releasing composition after 30 minute (min) exposure to a 1 OO-fold excess of 0.1 M citric acid is at least 676-fold higher than the amount of K⁺ released by the one or more potassic framework silicate starting materials under the same extraction conditions.

[00146] In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the amount of K⁺ released from the MPM:KC1 composition after 30 min exposure to a 1 OO-fold excess of 0.1 M citric acid relative to the amount of K⁺ released by the one or potassic framework silicate starting materials under the same extraction conditions is 2-fold higher, 3-fold higher, 4-foId higher, 5-fold higher, 6-fold higher, 7-fold higher, 8-fold higher, 9-fold higher, 10-fold higher, 15fold higher, 20-fbld higher, 25-fold higher, 30-fold higher, 35-fold higher, 40-fold higher, 45-fold higher, 50-fold higher, 55-fold higher, 60-fold higher, 65-fold higher, 110-fold higher, 155-fold higher, 201 -fold higher, 246-fold higher, 291 -fold higher, 337-fold higher, 382-fold higher, 427-fold higher, 473-fold higher, 518-fold higher, 563-fold higher, 608fold higher, 654-fold higher, 699-fold higher, 744-fold higher, 790-fold higher, 835-fold higher, 880-fold higher, 925-fold higher, 971-fold higher, 1016-fold higher, 1061-fold higher, 1107-fold higher, 1152-fold higher, 1197-fold higher, 1243-foid higher, or 1288fold higher, including ail values there between.

[00147] In some embodiments, the MPM:KCI composition releases K⁺ and the amount of K⁺ released from the alkali métal releasing composition after 30 min exposure to a 1 OOfold excess of deionîzed water is at least 2650-fold higher than the amount of IC released by the one or more potassic framework silicate starting materials under the same extraction conditions.

[00148] In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the amount of K released from the MPM:KC1 composition after 30 min exposure to a 1 OO-fold excess of deionized water relative to the amount of K⁺ released by the one or potassic framework silicate starting materials under the same extraction conditions is 2-fold higher, 3-fold higher, 4-fold higher, 5-fold higher, 6-fold higher, 7-fold higher, 8-fold higher, 9-fold higher, ]0-fold higher, 15fold higher, 20-fold higher, 25-fold higher, 30-fold higher, 35-fold higher, 40-fold higher, 45-fold higher, 50-fold higher, 55-fold higher, 60-fold higher, 70-fold higher, 80-fold higher, 90-fold higher, 1 OO-fold higher, 150-fold higher, 336-fold higher, 521-fold higher, 706-fold higher, 891-fold higher, 1076-fold higher, 1262-fold higher, 1447-fold higher, 1632-fold higher, 1817-fold higher, 2002-foId higher, 2188-fold higher, 2373-fold higher, 2558-foId higher, 2743-fold higher, 2928-foid higher, 31 13-fold higher, 3299-fold higher, 3484-fold higher, 3669-fold higher, 3854-fold higher, 4039-fold higher, 4225-fold higher, 4410-fold higher, 4595-fold higher, 4780-fold higher, 4965-fold higher, or 5150-fold higher, including ail values there between.

[00149] En some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the methods provide an MPM:KC1 composition, wherein the amount of K⁺ released from the MPM:KC1 composition after 30 min exposure to a I OO-fold excess of 0.1 M citric acid ranges from about 5 to about 260 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition.

[00150] In certain embodiments, the amount of K⁺ released was about 0.4 g K⁺/kg MPM:KCI composition, about 1 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 5 g K7kg

MPM:K.CI composition, about 10 g K.7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 25 g K7kg

MPM:KCI composition, about 50 g K⁺/kg MPM:KCI composition, about 100 g K⁺/kg MPM:KCI composition, about 130 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 160 g K7kg

MPM:KC1 composition, about 190 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 210 g K⁺/kg

MPMzKCl composition, about 240 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 270 g K7kg

MPM:KC1 composition, about 300 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 400 g K⁺/kg

MPM:KC1 composition, about 500 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 520 g K7kg

MPM:KCI composition, including ail values and ranges there between.

[00151] In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the methods provide an MPM:KC1 composition, wherein the amount of K? released from the MPM:KCI composition after 30 min exposure to a I OO-fold excess of deionized ranges from about 5 to about 271 g K7kg MPM:KCI composition.

[00152] In certain embodiments, the amount of K⁺ released was about 0.2 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 0.4 g K 7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 1 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 5 g K7kg MPM:KCI composition, about 10 g K.7kg

MPM:KCI composition, about 25 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 50 g K7kg

MPM:KCI composition, about 100 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 130 g K 7kg

MPM:KCI composition, about 160 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 190 g K7kg

MPM:KCI composition, about 210 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 240 g K7kg

MPM:KC1 composition, about 270 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 300 g K7kg

MPM:KCI composition, about 400 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 500 g K7kg

MPM:KCI composition, about 520 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, including ail values and ranges there between.

[00153] In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the MPM:KC1 composition as described herein possesses a rhizosphere-responsive K release, wherein one portion of K⁺ is water-soluble sait, while an additîonal portions are released over an extended period of time. Therefore, in some embodiments, the MPM:KC1 composition disclosed herein possess the désirable property of having both fast-release K and slow-release K. In various embodiments of the présent disclosure, the ratio of immediate-release (soluble) K to slow (solîd phase) K. tn the MPM:KC1 composition is from about 720:1 to about 0.01:1. In some embodiments, the ratio is about 720:1, about 700:1, about 600:1, about 500:1, about 400:1, about 300:1, about 200:1, about 100:1, about 50:1, about 10:1,, about 9:1, about 8:1, about 7:1, about 6:1, about 5:1, about 4:1, about 3:1, about 2:1, about 1:1, about 0.8:1, about 0.6:1, about 0.4:1, about 0.2:1, about 0.1:1, or about 0.01:1 including ail ranges and values there between.

[00154] In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the MPM:KC1 composition as described herein possesses a ratio of immediate-release (soluble) K to slow (solîd phase) K from about 8:1 to about 0.1:1. In some embodiments, the ratio is about 20:1, about 10:1, 8:1, about 7:1, about 6:1, about 5:1, about 4:1, about 3:1, about 2:1, about 1:1, about 0.8:1, about 0.6:1, about 0.4:1, about 0.2:1, about 0.1:1, or about 0.01:1 including ail ranges and values there between.

[00155] In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the MPM:KCI composition can possess an immediately soluble carbonaceous constituent that provides crops an immédiate source of chlorine-free K. However, in contrast to KC1 and similar materials, the présent disclosure also provides embodiments where the small, yet useful portion of K released from the MPM:KCI composition can be distributed among several phases, and thus K is likely to be available at a slower rate.

[00156] In various embodiments of the present dîsclosure, the MPM:KC1 composition provided by the disclosed methods is a fertilizer. In some embodiments of the present dîsclosure, the fertilizer is a K⁺ fertilizer. In some embodiments of the present dîsclosure, the fertilizer is a multi-nutrient fertilizer.

[00157] In some embodiments of the present dîsclosure, the MPM:KC1 compositions contaîn K-feldspar phase in a range of between 1% and 74.5% by weight, tobermorite phase în a range of between 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 50% by weight, between 0% and 45% by weight, between 0% and 40% by weight, between 0% and 35% by weight, between 0% and 30% by weight, between 0% and 25% by weight, between 0% and 20% by weight), hydrogrossular phase in a range of between 0% and 15% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 12% by weight), dicalcium silicate hydrate phase în a range of between 0% and 20% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 15% by weight, between 0% and 12% by weight, between 0% and 10% by weight), amorphous phase in a range of between 1 % and 55% by weight (e.g., between 1 % and 45% by weight), sy 1 vite phase in a range of between 0.1% and 99% by weight and accessories phase in a range of between 0.1% and 20% by weight.

[00158] In some embodiments, the compositions of MPM:KC1 include about I wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 M. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, about 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 19 wt. %, 20 wt. %, about 21 wt. %, about 22 wt. %, about 23 wt. %, about 24 wt. %, about 25 wt. % of a K-feldspar phase, about 26 wt. %, about 27 wt. %, about 28 wt. %, about 29 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 31 wt. %, about 32 wt. %, about 33 wt. %, about 34 wt. % about 35 wt. %, about 36 wt. %, about 37 wt. %, about 38 wt. %, about 39 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, about 41 wt. %, about 42 wt. %, about 43 wt. %, about 44 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 46 wt. %, about 47 wt. %, about 48 wt. %, about 49 wt. %, about 50 wt. %, about 60 wt.%, about 70 wt.%, or about 74.5 wt.% of a K-feldspar phase, including ail ranges and values there between.

[00159] In some embodiments, compositions of MPM:KC1 include about 1.5 wt. %, about 1.6 wt. %, about 1.7 wt. %, about 1.8 wt. %, about 1.9 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, about 25 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 35 wt. % of, about 40 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 50 wt. %, about 55 wt. % of a tobermorîte phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00160] In some embodiments, the compositions of MPM:KC1 include about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. % of a hydrogrossular phase including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00161] In some embodiments, the compositions of MPM:KC1 composition include about 0 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt, %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, about 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 19 wt. % or about 20 wt. % of a dicalcîum silicate hydrate phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00162] In some embodiments, the compositions of MPM;KC1 include about I wt.%, about 5 wt.%, about 10 wt.%, about 15 wt.%, about 20 wt.%, about 25 wt.%, about 30 wt.%, about 35 wt.%, about 40 wt. %, or about 45 wt. %, about 50 wt. % or about 55 wt. % (e.g., between 0% and 45% by weight) of an amorphous phase, including al! ranges between any of these values.

[00163] In some embodiments, the compositions of MPM:KCI include about 0.1 wt. %, about 0.2 wt. %, about 0.3 wt. %, about 0.4 wt. %, about 0.5 wt. %, aboui 0.6 wt. %, about 0.7 wt. %, about 0.8 wt. %, about 0.9 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, about 22 wt. %, about 24 wt. %, about 26 wt. %, about 28 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 32 wt. %, about 34 wt. %, about 35 wt. %, about 36 wt. %, about 37 wt. %, about 38 wt. %, about 39 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, about 41 wt. %, about 42 wt. %, about 43 wt. %, about 44 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 46 wt. %, about 47 wt. %, about 48 wt. %, about 49 wt. %, about 50 wt. %, about 60 wt. %, about 70 wt. %, about 80 wt. %, about 90 wt. %, about 99 wt. % of a sylvite phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00164] In some embodiments, the compositions of MPM:KCI include about 0.1 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 1 1 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about i 3 wt. % about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 19 wt. %, about 20 wt. % of accessories phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00165| In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, compositions of MPM:KC1 include K-feldspar phase in a range of between 14.5% and 74.5% by weight, tobermorite phase in a range of between 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 50% by weight, between 0% and 45% by weight, between 0% and 40% by weight, between 0% and 35% by weight, between 0% and 30% by weight, between 0% and 25% by weight, between 0% and 20% by weight), hydrogrossular phase in a range of between 0% and 15% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 12% by weight), dicalcium silicate hydrate phase in a range of between 0% and 20% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 15% by weight, between 0% and 12% by weight, between 0% and 10% by weight), amorphous phase in a range of between l % and 55% by weight (e.g., between 1% and 45% by weight), sylvite phase in a range of between 0.99% and 50% by weight and accessories phase in a range of between 0.1% and 20% by weight.

[00166] In some embodiments, the compositions of MPM:KC1 include about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, about 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 19 wt. %, 20 wt. %. about 21 wt. %, about 22 wt. %, about 23 wt. %, about 24 wt. %, about 25 wt. % of a K-feidspar phase, about 26 wt. %, about 27 wt. %, about 28 wt. %, about 29 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 31 wt. %, about 32 wt. %, about 33 wt. %, about 34 wt. % about 35 wt. %, about 36 wt. %, about 37 wt. %, about 38 wt. %, about 39 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, about 41 wt. %, about 42 wt. %, about 43 wt. %, about 44 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 46 wt. %, about 47 wt. %, about 48 wt. %, about 49 wt. %, about 50 wt. %, about 60 wt.%, about 70 wt.%, or about 74.5 wt.% of a K-feldspar phase, including ail ranges and values there between.

[00167] In some embodiments, compositions of MPM:KCI composition include about 1.5 wt. %, about 1.6 wt. %, about 1.7 wt. %, about 1.8 wt. %, about 1.9 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, about 25 wt. %, about wt. %, about 35 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 50 wt. %, about 55 wt. % of a tobermorite phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00168J In some embodiments, the compositions of MPM:KO include about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. % or about 15 wt. % of a hydrogrossular phase including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00169] In some embodiments, the compositions of MPM:KC1 include about 0 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt, %, about 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 19 wt. % or about 20 wt. % of a dicalcium silicate hydrate phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00170] In some embodiments, the compositions of MPM:KCI composition include about 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, about 22 wt. %, about 24 wt. %, about 26 wt. %, about 28 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 32 wt. %, about 34 wt. %, about 36 wt. %, about 38 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, or about 45 wt. %, about 50 wt. % or about 55 wt. % of an amorphous phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00171] In some embodiments, the compositions of MPM:KCI composition include about 0.9 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, about 22 wt. %, about 24 wt. %, about 26 wt. %, about 28 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 32 wt. %, about 34 wt. %, about 35 wt. %, about 36 wt. %, about 37 wt. %, about 38 wt. %, about 39 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, about 41 wt. %, about 42 wt. %, about 43 wt. %, about 44 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 46 wt. %, about 47 wt. %, about 48 wt. %, about 49 wt. %, about 50 wt. %, of a sylvite phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00172] In some embodiments, the compositions of MPM:KCI composition include about 0.1 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about I 1 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, 17 wt.

%, about 18 wt. %, about 19 wt. %, about 20 wt. % of accessories phase, including ail ranges between any of these values.

[00173] In some embodiments, the compositions disclosed herein further include one or more carbonates selected from the group including K2CO3, NasCCh, MgCCh, and CaCOs and combinations thereof.

[00174] In various embodiments of the disclosure, the processes for the préparation of K-source compositions demonstrate the potential application in agriculture (e.g., as a Kfertilizer) and/or in soil remediatîon (e.g., by îmmobilizing heavy metals from the soil). For example, the présent disclosure is directed to a new process for the préparation of such compositions, which would signifîcantly reduce the salinity of the soil, compared with KCI fertilizers. In addition, but are not lîmited to, the présent disclosure créâtes new compositions with different rates of K-release and combines the very high solubilîty of potassium chloride with the multi-stage K-release, high adsorptîon capacity, high residual effect, the ability to buffer soil pH at optimal levels for a given crop and microbiome, and minimal salinity of hydrothermally processed potassium.

[00175] The analysis of the MPM'.KCl composition that follows provides new insîghts on the process described herein and their application in agriculture. The overall discussion is framed according to the overarching goal of engineering a process scalable to industrial outputs that can truly benefit nutrient-poor and scarcely productive soils. These compositions are able to supply nutrients to the crops for the entire season through a single application, thereby saving on application costs and reducing the demand for short-season manual labor, in addition to improving agronomie performance through réduction of stress and spécifie toxîcîty resulting from intense and excessive nutrient supply to the root zones (and germinating seeds). It has been unexpectedly discovered that the composition (i.e., mineralogy) and extraction properties of the MPM:KCI composition as disclosed herein can be tuned through alterations of the processing conditions. The examples that follow offer support for this fînding while emphasizing that the MPM:KCi composition disclosed herein is adaptable to a number of important applications.

EXAMPLES

[00120] A schematic flow chart of the batch processing route is provided in FIGURE 2. The steps of the process include a potassic framework silicate ore hydrothermal processed with an oxide, a hydroxîde and a carbonate of at least one of an alkaline earth métal and an alkali métal and water at a température of between 90°C and 400°C, to a pressure of between 1 to 300 atm for 0.01 to 6 h to form a MPM slurry; and a second step of introducing KO, in an amount sufficient to the slurry with mixing until ail KC1 is dissolved, to form a mixed KC1 and MPM precursor slurry or powder in the desired weight ratio; and a third step of drying at a température of between 90°C and 200°C (e.g., 100°C and 200°C), to a pressure of between 1 to 100 atm for 0.01 to 48 h. Also, the KO can be, optionally, added and mixed as a powder to MPM, after drying step at a température of between 90°C and 200°C (e.g., 100°C and 200°C), to a pressure of between 1 to 100 atm for 0.01 to 48 h or added to the mixture of potassic Framework silicate ore and an oxide, a hydroxîde and/or a carbonate of at least one of an alkaline earth métal and an alkali métal and water before hydrothermal processing to form a MPM;KC1 slurry.

Example 1: Synthesis and Characterization of Reagents and K-source Compositions

[00121] The ultrapotassic syenite used herein was obtained from the Triunfo batholith, located in Pernambuco State, Brazil. The K-feldspar content was 94.5 wt. %. Hand-sized field samples were comminuted in a jaw crusher, and sieved to obtain particles with size <2 mm. Calcium oxide (CaO), reagent grade (Fisher Scîentific) was used as received. [00122] The feed mixture for hydrothermal processing was obtained by dry milling ultrapotassic syenite (<2 mm), down to a P90 ~150 pm. CaO is added to the K-feldspar rich powder to achieve a nominal Ca:Si molar ratio of 0.3, based on the assumption that there was no Si in the CaO and no Ca in the ultrapotassic syenite.

[00123] The hydrothermal processing, MPM:KC1 mixing, and product recovery followed method 2 of FIGURE 2. A 5-gallon autoclave was loaded with 3.2 kg of feed mixture and 9.6 kg of water. The reactor was sealed and the rotation of the impellor set at 300 rpm. The température set point of 220 °C w'as reached in 2 h. The internai pressure of the reactor was about 23 barg. Subsequently, the reactor was cooled down with an internai water-cooling system, until the internai T reached -40 °C. The reactor was opened quickly, and the MPM slurry transferred quantitatively in a 5-gallon plastic bucket. The desired amount of KC1 (e.g., 1-weight équivalent) was mixed into the slurry and homogenized using a power drill adapted with a cernent mixer. The slurry w'as then transferred into autoclavable plastic trays and dried overnight (1 8 h) in a laboratory oven set at 120±5 °C. The dried cake was passed through a dise mi 11 to obtain a powder. This powder was subsequently used for materials and Chemical characterization and agronomie studies.

IA. Détermination of the MPM:KCI Mineralogy - XRPD

[00124] The mineralogy of the MPM:KC1 composition in FIGURES 5 and 6 was determined by X-Ray Powder Diffraction (XRPD). Powder samples were back-loaded onto the sample holder and put into a dîffractometer (Panalytical X'Pert MPD) that used \ Οιίκα radiation at 45 kV and 40 mA as an X-ray source. Once identified, minerai phases were quantîfied via the internai standard method and Rietveld refinement. A few small peaks (1% ofthe overall diffraction patterns) could not be positively identified and were disregarded. A second XRPD scan was run under the same conditions as the initiai scan. In the second scan, 25 wt. % Si (NIST SRM 640) was mixed into the sample to serve as the internai standard. A new Rietveld refinement was performed, permitting a comparison, adjusted for différences in scattering power, between the integrated intensity of the Si peaks and the integrated intensity of the known crystalline phases determined in the initial analysis. The différence between these values as a portion of the total was assumed to be due to the amorphous content of the sample. The final amount of each crystalline constituent is the resuit ofthe initial Rietveld refinement normalîzed to take into account the estimated amorphous content.

[00125] Samples showed a high degree of preferred orientation, overlapping peaks and unusual peak shapes, involving extensive manual fittîng. Gîven several sources of uncertainties, XRPD quantîtatîon can be considered only as the best possible estimate. [00126] The diffraction pattern of the MPM:KC1 composition is given in FIGURE 6 (refinement not shown). XRPD analysis detected K-feldspar (KAISiiOs) and new minerai phases formed in situ during hydrothermal processing and/or drying, namely hydrogrossular (CajAhtSiO^j-XOHK), α-dicalcium silicate hydrate (CasSiOXOH)?), 11 À tobermorite (Ca5SÎ6Oi6(OH)2'4H2Û) and amorphous material(s).

(00127] K-feldspar is the main minerai constituent of the ultrapotassîc syenite used in the feed mixture. In the MPM:KCI composition, residual K-feldspar sti11 detected by XRPD accounted for 1 -74.5% by weight, tobermorite phase in a range of 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 50% by weight, between 0% and 45% by weight, between 0% and 40% by weight, between 0% and 35% by weight, between 0% and 30% by weight, between 0% and 25% by weight, between 0% and 20% by weight), hydrogrossular phase in a range of between 0% and 15% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 12% by weight), dicalcium silicate hydrate phase in a range of between 0% and 20% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 15% by weight, between 0% and 12% by weight, between 0% and 10% by weight), amorphous phase in a range of between 1% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 1 % and 45% by weight), sylvite phase in a range of between 0.1 % and 99% by weight and accessories phase in a range of between 0.1% and 20% by weight.

IB. Détermination of the Microstructure of MPM:KCI

[00128] The MPMrKCI composition mounted in thin sections (27 mm><46 mm, 30 pm thick, two-sided polish 0.5 pm diamond, borosilicate glass, acrylic resin; Spectrum Petrographics Inc.) was observed with a Scannîng Electron Microscope (JEOL 6610 LV) operated in high vacuum mode (<10^-3 Pa). The accelerating voltage was 10-20 kV, the spot size 45-60, and the working distance 9-10 mm. Before observation, sections were carbon coated (Quorum, EMS I50T ES). Thin sections were stored under vacuum.

[00129] The Chemical composition of the MPM:KC1 composition mounted in thin section was determined with an Electron Probe Micro-Analyzer (ΕΡΜΑ) (JEOL JXA8200), using an accelerating voltage of 15 kV, beam current of 10 nanoAmps (nA) and beam diameter of 1 pm. The minerai phases were analyzed with counting times of 20-40 s. From counting statistics, Ισ standard déviations on concentration values were 0.3-1.0% for major éléments and 1.0-5.0% for minor éléments. Back-scattered électron (BSE) images and X-Ray elemental maps (4.5cm^x2.7cm) were obtained using a voltage of 15 kV, a beam current of 1 nA and a resolution of 10 pm. The use of such settings as well as operations in stage-rastered mode with a statîonary beam avoided signal loss and defocusing of X-Ray.

[00130] Preliminary SEM observations of the MPM:KCI composition were made on the powder as such (FIGURE 3). Subsequently, it was mounted in thin section, for detailed exploration of morphological features (SEM).

[00131] Lastly, various minerai phases could contribute to what is detected as amorphous by XRPD such as i) severely altered (disordered) K-feldspar ii) nanocrystalline particles iîi) truly amorphous compounds, for example poorly crystallized nonstoichiometric calcium-silicate-hydrate (C-S-H).

|00132] The particle size distribution (PSD) of powder samples were determined with a MicroBrook 2000L laser-diffraction particle size analyzer (Brookhaven Instruments Coopération, US), equipped with a sample circulation and dispersion module. Samples were introduced into the dispersion module until an obscuration of-15% was achieved. Samples were dispersed in water by mechanical agitation and sonication prier to each measurement. Refractive indices of 1.529 (real) and 0.1 (imaginary) were used in the optical mode!.

[00133] Spécifie Surface Area accordîng to Brunauer, Emmet and Teller (BET-SSA) was determined with a Micromeritics ASAP 2020 surface area and porosity analyzer. The gas used for adsorption was N2. Samples (-0.5 g) were degassed at 200 °C until a constant degassing rate of 10’⁵ mmHg min’¹ was reached in the sample tube (12 h). SSA was determined on the adsorption branch of the îsotherm with the multi-points method in the pipa range 0.08-0.35. However, the complété adsorption (up to p!p$ = 0.99) and desorption isotherms were recorded.

IC. Extraction Experiments

[00134] Extraction experiments for ultrapotassic syenite, MPM, and MPM:KC1 composition were performed in batches. 0.400 g of solid composition was agitated with 40 mL of extraction solution (mj,:ms=100) for 30 min in a sealed polypropylene centrifuge tube. Various extradants were used to vary the intensity of the extraction. Commonly used extractants include 0.1 M citric acid and deionîzed water. Ail aqueous solutions were prepared using 18.2 ΜΩ cm water. After agitation, the extradant solution is isolated through a sequence of centrifugation and filtration. The latter employed a grade 3 Whatman filter paper (6 gm pores). The filtrate is then diluted l/l00 in 2 wt. % HNO3 for ICP-OES analysis. Each extraction experîment was performed in triplicate.

[00135] The MPM:KC1 composition releases K⁺ and the amount of K⁺ released from the alkalî métal releasing composition after 30 min exposure to a 100-foid excess of 0.1 M citric acid is at least 676-fold higher than the amount of Κ ^μ released by the one or more potassic framework silicate starting materials under the same extraction conditions. In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the amount of K⁺ released from the MPM:KC1 composition after 30 min exposure to a 1 OO-fold excess of 0.1 M citric acid relative to the amount of K⁺ released by the one or potassic framework silicate starting materials under the same extraction conditions is 2-fold higher, 3-fold higher, 4-fold higher, 5-fold higher, 6-fold higher, 7-fold higher, 8-fold higher, 9-fold higher, 10-fold higher, 15-foid higher, 20-fold hîgher, 25-fold higher, 30-fold higher, 35-fold higher, 40fold higher, 45-fold higher, 50-fold higher, 55-fold higher, 60-fold higher, 65-fold higher, 110-foid higher, 155-fold higher, 201-fold higher, 246-fold higher, 291-fold higher, 337fold higher, 382-fold higher, 427-fold higher, 473-fold higher, 518-fold higher, 563-fold higher, 608-fold higher, 654-fold higher, 699-fold higher, 744-fold higher, 790-fold higher, 835-fold higher, 880-fold higher, 925-fold higher, 971 -fold higher, 1016-fold higher, 1061-fold higher, 1107-fold higher, 1 152-fold higher, 1197-fold higher, 1243-fold higher, or 1288-fold higher, including ail values there between,

[00136] Also, the MPM:KCI composition releases K? and the amount of K⁺ released from the alkali métal releasing composition after 30 min exposure to a 1 OO-fold excess of deionized water is at least 2650-fold higher than the amount of K⁺ released by the one or more potassic framework silicate starting materials under the same extraction conditions. In some embodiments of the présent disclosure, the amount of K⁺ released from the MPM:KC1 composition after 30 min exposure to a 1 OO-fold excess of deionized water relative to the amount of K⁺ released by the one or potassic framework silicate starting materials under the same extraction conditions is 2-fo!d higher, 3-fold higher, 4-fold higher, 5-fold higher, 6-fold higher, 7-fold higher, 8-fold higher, 9-fold higher, 10-fold higher, 15-fold higher, 20-fold higher, 25-fold higher, 30-fold higher, 35-fold higher, 40fold higher, 45-fold higher, 50-fold higher, 55-fold higher, 60-fold higher, 70-fo!d higher, 80-fold higher, 90-fold higher, 1 OO-fold higher, 150-fold higher, 336-fold higher, 521-fold higher, 706-fold higher, 891-fold higher, 1076-fold higher, 1262-fold higher, 1447-fold higher, 1632-fold higher, 1817-fold higher, 2002-fold higher, 2188-fold higher, 2373-fold higher, 2558-fold higher, 2743-fold higher, 2928-fold higher, 3113-fold higher, 3299-fold higher, 3484-fold higher, 3669-fold higher, 3854-fold higher, 4039-fold higher, 4225-fold higher, 4410-fold higher, 4595-fold higher, 4780-fold higher, 4965-fold higher, or 5150foid higher, including ail values there between.

ID. Relationship Between Mineralogy Composition and Extraction

[00137] The major potassium alumino silicate (KAS) detected by XRPD in the MPM:KCI composition was K-feldspar (KAISijOs). XRPD showed that approximately 30 wt. % of K-feldspar were converted during processing (FIG 4). PSD analysis confirmed that the size population attributable to K-feldspar (~55 pm peak) was reduced in the MPM:KC1 composition with respect to the feed mixture (FIGURE 8). However, such a minerai phase remains the main constituent of the MPM:KC1 composition (25.4 wt. %), and therefore also the main K-bearing phase. This is a carefully engineered and intended feature of the composition. A complété transformation of K-feldspar would be cost prohibitive, and would generate a large amount of soluble K immediately avaîlable in the soîl solution, in opposition with the declared scope of this work, i.e. engineering a fertilizer (e.g., a fertilizer for soils, such as a fertilizer for tropical soils) with a K-release rate that flts crop needs or desires.

[00138] The hydrothermal process transforms K-feldspar into Ca-bearing aluminosilicate hydrates, namely hydrogrossular, tobermorite, α-dîcalciumsilicate hydrate, and disordered C-A-S-H phases, wherein the latter falls into the category of XRPD amorphous (FIGURES 5 and 6). One or more of these Ca-bearing aluminosilicate hydrates has the ability to host K, serving as a K réservoir. As shown in Table 1, a sufficiently acidic environment — similar to those found in the rhizosphere — will dissolve these phases to release K and other stored nutrients and/or bénéficiai éléments.

Example 2: Effect of Processing and Drying Conditions on the MPM: KC1 Composition K-release From MPM:KC1 Composition Under Different Drving Conditions

[00139] Extraction experiments were carried out as follows: 400 mg of MPM or équivalent amount of MPM:KC1 composition were suspended in 40 mL of 0.1 M citric acid solution (donc in triplicates). The pH/=o was recorded. Samples were then agitated for 30 min and a second pH measurement was taken (pH/=24h). Extraction of minerais was determined by ICP-MS under acidic conditions (2 wt. % HNO3). Except where noted, MPM:KCI composition were processed at 220 °C and dried under the specified conditions at 120 °C.

[00140] The methods provide an MPM:KCI composition, wherein the amount of K⁺ released from the MPM:KC1 composition after 30 min exposure to a 1 OO-fold excess of 0.1 M citric acid ranges from about 0.4 to about 520 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition. In certain embodiments, the amount of K⁺ released was about 0.4 g K'/kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 1 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 5 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 10 g K⁺/kg MPM:KCI composition, about 25 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 50 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 100 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 130 g K⁺/kg MPM:KCI composition, about 160 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition 1, about 190 g K'/kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 210 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 240 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 270 g K⁺/kg MPM;KC1 composition, about 300 g K⁺/kg MPM:KO composition, about 400 g K⁺/kg MPM:KO composition, about 500 g K7kg MPM:KO composition, about 520 g K⁺/kg MPM:KO composition, including ail values and ranges there between.

[00141] The methods provide an MPM:KO composition, wherein the amount of K^: released from the MPM:KO composition after 30 min exposure to a 1 OO-fold excess of deionized ranges from about 0.2 to about 520 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition. In certain embodiments, the amount of K⁺ released was about 0.2 g K7kg MPM:KCI composition, about 0.4 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 1 g K7kg MPM:KCI processed composition, about 5 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 10 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 25 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 50 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 100 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 130 g K⁺/kg MPM:KCI composition, about 160 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 190 g K⁺/kg MPM:KCl composition, about 210 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 240 g K7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 270 g K 7kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 300 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 400 g K⁺/kg MPM:KCI composition, about 500 g K⁺/kg MPM:KC1 composition, about 520 g K⁺/kg MPM:KCi composition, including all values and ranges there between.

[00142] The composition as described herein can be produced by granulation with a feed ofMPM and KC1.

[00143] The MPM:KC1 composition as described herein can possess a rhizosphereresponsîve K release, wherein one portion of K^T is water-solubie sait, while additional portions are released over an extended period of time. Therefore, in some embodiments, the MPM:KC1 composition disclosed herein can possess the désirable property of having both fast-release K and slow-release K. In various embodiments of the présent disclosure, the ratio of immediate-release (soluble) K to slow (solid phase) K in the MPM:KC1 composition is from about 720:1 to about 0.01:1. In some embodiments, the ratio is about 720:1, about 700:1, about 600: l, about 500:1, about 400:1, about 300:1, about 200:1, about 100:1, about 50:1, about 10:1,, about 9:1, about 8:1, about 7:1, about 6:1, about 5:1, about 4:1, about 3:1, about 2:1, about 1:1, about 0.8:1, about 0.6:1, about 0.4:1, about 0.2:1, about 0.1:1, or about 0.01:1 including al! ranges and values there between.

[00144] A sériés of MPM:KC1 compositions were produced using four distinct sets of atmospheric conditions (Ar-Ar, Ar-Air, Air-Air, and CO2-CO2) for reacting the feedstocks and subsequently dryîng the resulting products (Table 2).

Tabie 2 - Minerai ranges for MPM:KC! composition

MPM phase distribution	Low conv.	Low buffer	Std. conv.	High buffer
Weight percent of K-feldspar	55.7%	75.2%	44.5%	28.9%
Weight percent of tobermorite	-	-	5.0%	6.8%
Weight percent of hydrogarnet	6.2%	4.0%	7.0%	9.5%
Weight percent of DCS	8.2%	5.3%	-	-
Weight percent of amorphous	23.3%	15.1%	33.1%	44.7%
S ub-total	93.4%	99.7%	89.6%	89.8%
Accessory	6.6%	0.3%	10.4%	10.2%
Total	100.0%	100.0%	100.0%	100.0%
	Low	Low	Std.	High
0.01H:lM	conv.	buffer	conv.	buffer
Weight ofMPM	0.01	0.01	0.01	0.01
Weight ofKCl	1	1	1	1
Weight percent ofMPM	0.99%	0.99%	0.99%	0.99%
Weight percent of KCI	99.01%	99.01%	99.01%	99.01%
MPM phases
Weight percent of K-feldspar	0.551%	0.745%	0.441%	0.286%
Weight percent of tobermorite	0.000%	0.000%	0.050%	0.067%
Weight percent of hydrogarnet	0.061%	0.040%	0.069%	0.094%
Weight percent of DCS	0.081%	0.053%	0.000%	0.000%
Weight percent of amorphous	0.231%	0.150%	0.328%	0.442%
Weight percent of accessory
phases	0.065%	0.003%	0.103%	0.101%
	Low	Low	Std.	High
1H:1M	conv.	buffer	conv.	buffer

Weight of MPM	I	1	1	1
Weight of KCI	1	1	1	1
Weight percent of MPM	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Weight percent of KCI	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
MPM phases
Weight percent of K-feldspar	27.850%	37.598%	22.250%	14.463%
Weight percent of tobermorite	0.000%	0.000%	2.500%	3.375%
Weight percent of hydrogarnet	3.100%	2.015%	3.500%	4.725%
Weight percent of DCS	4.100%	2.665%	0.000%	0.000%
Weight percent of amorphous	11.650%	7.573%	16.550%	22.343%
Weight percent of accessory
phases	3.300%	0.150%	5.200%	5.095%
	Low	Low	Std.	High
2H:1M	conv.	buffer	conv.	buffer
Weight of MPM	2	2	2	2
Weight ofKCI	1	1	1	1
Weight percent of MPM	66.67%	66.67%	66.67%	66.67%
Weight percent of KCI	33.33%	33.33%	33.33%	33.33%
MPM phases
Weight percent of K-feldspar	37.133%	50.130%	29.667%	19.283%
Weight percent of tobermorite	0.000%	0.000%	3.333%	4.500%
Weight percent of hydrogarnet	4.133%	2.687%	4.667%	6.300%
Weight percent of DCS	5.467%	3.553%	0.000%	0.000%
Weight percent of amorphous	15.533%	10.097%	22.067%	29.790%
Weight percent of accessory
phases	4.400%	0.200%	6.933%	6.793%
	Low	Low	Std.	High
3H:1M	conv.	buffer	conv.	buffer
Weight ofMPM	3	3	3	3
Weight ofKCI	1	1	1	I
Weight percent ofMPM	75.00%	75.00%	75.00%	75.00%

Weight percent of KCI	25.00%	25.00%	25.00%	25.00%
MPM phases
Weight percent of K-feldspar	41.775%	56.396%	33.375%	21.694%
Weight percent of tobermorîte	0.000%	0.000%	3.750%	5.063%
Weight percent of hydrogarnet	4.650%	3.023%	5.250%	7.088%
Weight percent of DCS	6.150%	3.998%	0.000%	0.000%
Weight percent of amorphous	17.475%	11.359%	24.825%	33.514%
Weight percent of accessory
phases	4.950%	0.225%	7.800%	7.642%
	Low	Low	Std.	High
5H:IM	conv.	buffer	conv.	buffer
Weight of MPM	5	5	5	5
Weight of KCI	1	1	1	1
Weight percent of MPM	83.33%	83.33%	83.33%	83.33%
Weight percent of KCI	16.67%	16.67%	16.67%	16.67%
MPM phases
Weight percent of K-feldspar	46.417%	62.663%	37.083%	24.104%
Weight percent of tobermorîte	0.000%	0.000%	4.167%	5.625%
Weight percent of hydrogarnet	5.167%	3.358%	5.833%	7.875%
Weight percent of DCS	6.833%	4.442%	0.000%	0.000%
Weight percent of amorphous	19.417%	12.621%	27.583%	37.238%
Weight percent of accessory
phases	5.500%	0.250%	8.667%	8.492%
	Low	Low	Std.	High
1OOH:1M	conv.	buffer	conv.	buffer
Weight ofMPM	100	100	100	100
Weight of KCI	1	1	1	1
Weight percent of MPM	99.01%	99.01%	99.01%	99.01%
Weight percent of KCI	0.99%	0.99%	0.99%	0.99%
MPM phases
Weight percent of K-feldspar	55.149%	74.450%	44.059%	28.639%

Weight percent of tobermorite	0.000%	0.000%	4.950%	6.683%
Weight percent of hydrogamet	6.139%	3.990%	6.931%	9.356%
Weight percent ofDCS	8.119%	5.277%	0.000%	0.000%
Weight percent of amorphous Weight percent of accessory	23.069%	14.995%	32.772%	44.243%
phases	6.535%	0.297%	10.297%	10.089%

[00145] Aitering the processing and dryîng atmosphère markedly influences the composition of the MPM:KCI composition produced. In particular, the amount of the amorphous phase, dicalcium silicate hydrate, hydrogamet, tobermorite, and K-feldspar vary under each set of conditions.

[00146] Further studies were conducted to isolate the effects of the drying conditions on extraction of potassium from two sets of MPM: KCI composition. For the first set, the MPM:KC1 composition was dried with the supernatant separately using air, Ar, COi, and vacuum. K-release is highest under Ar conditions and lowest when CO2 is utilized.

Application of vacuum between 10^-2-10^-3 Torr also provides substantial release of K⁺ from the MPM:KC1 composition. Drying with air provides an intermediate value, clearly indicating that the small amount of CO2 naturally présent has lîttle impact on extraction. In these experiments, K-release was found to be independent of drying température (<90 °C).

Example 3: Salinity index

[00147] The weight ratio of MPM:KCI composition are variables found to impact the salinity index of compositions (Table 3 and 4). For instance, decreasing the MPM weight ratio will increases the salinity index (Table 3 and 4). As MPM is chloride-free, a MPM:KC1 composition would significantîy reduce the Cl added into the soil, compared with KCI. For example, MPM:KCI composition (1:1) reduces the salinity by 50% (compared with KCI) and the resulting salinity index is similarto commercial fertilizers K2SO4 and Poly 4.

Table 3 - Salînity index and percentage of K⁺ and Cl^- of different weight ratios of MPM:KCI composition.

B fend properties	MPM: K(	:i Blends	K,SO4	Poly4”
Weight ofMPM	1	100	10	5	3	1	1	-	-	-
Weight of K-bearing sait	-	1	1	1	1	1	10	1	1	1
MPM contribution in weight	100%	99.0%	90.9%	03.8%	75.0%	50.0%	9 1	0.00%	-	-
Calculated Salînity Index	5.0	6.2	16.4	25.8	36 3	67.5	118 6	1300	50.0	760
Weight percent of K in biend	8.3%	8.7%	12.3%	15.6%	19.2%	30.2%	48.0%	52.0%	41 5%	11.6%
Weiqht percent of Cl in biend	0.0%	0.5%	4.4%	8.0%	12.0%	24.0%	43.6%	48.0%	-	-

Table 4. The Salînity index measurements of MPM:KC1 composition prepared via method 2 in FIGURE 2 (DRY) and method 3 in FIGURE 2 (PWD).

Sam pie	Concentration fg/L)	Conductivit y (mS/cm)	T(*C)	Calculated salînity index from known values (%)	ÇaiSlWcl salînity index from measurements (%)
NaNO3	10	11 64	206	100 00	100.00
KCI	10	17.5	205	130 00	150.34
11. MPM;KCI - DRY	10	38	20.6	67 50	75.60
3:1. MPM:KCI - DRY	10	4.75	20.5	36.25	40.81
5:1. MPM;KCI - DRY	10	3.33	20.6	2083	28.61
10:1, MPM;KCI- DRY	10	2.04	20 5	13.64	17 53
MPM	10	0758	20	500	6.51
1:1. MPMKCI - PWD	10	9.37	209	67.50	80 50
3:1, MPMKCI - PWD	10	5 09	20.6	20.83	43.73
10:1. MPMKCI-PWD	10	2.42	20.4	13.64	20.79

Relative Si, Powder biend vs. Dry biend
Sam pie	Relative SI, Powder biend vs. Dry biend
1:1,MPM;KCI	1.09
3:1.MPM;KCI	1.03
10.1, MPMKCI	1.11

Example 4: Processing parameters and agronomie efficiency

[00148] The greenhouse tests for yield comparison (both the first as well as the second cycle) and K leaching loss comparison were performed in columns containing a sandy and low K soil treated with different K sources, MPM, 5-MPM:l-KCl, 1-MPM:1-KC1, KC1 (commercially named Muriate of Potash (MOP)) and control (with 5 replicates of each treatment) as illustrated in FIGURE 9 and FIGURE 11. Each composition/product was tested at three different K rates with the remaining necessary macronutrients incorporated directly into the soil in the amounts as per Tables 5A and 5B below. The moisture level of the soil was increased to 70%, followed by incubation for 15 days. After incubation, five seeds were planted. After emergence of the seedlings, two of them were kept and grown over a period of 45-49 days to provide yield, plant nutrition, K uptake and efficiency data. The micronutrients were added as part of a nutrient solution during the growth cycle as per Table 5A. Over the growth cycle, water was applied to sîmulate 40 mm of rain spread over every seven day period. The first greenhouse cycle finished with the harvesting and analysis of the crops of each column. After the first greenhouse cycle but before the second greenhouse cycle, the soil was treated according to the same protocol, including incubation, with the only différence being that certain macronutrients were added in a slightly different proportion when compared to the first cycle as per Tables 5A and 5B below. The micronutrients added remained the same. Concurrent with the growth of the plants, the leachate coilected at the bottom of the columns was anaiyzed over regular intervals for its K content (FIGURE 10). The K that was in the leachate was considered as permanently lost as it could not be absorbed by the roots of the plants within this cycle anymore, and would also not contribute to buîld-up the nutrient réservoir of the soil.

Table 5A - First greenhouse cycle added macro and micronutrients

	Nutrients	Eléments doses (nrig/kg)	_ i g /pot of each Sources : source
MACRO	P	250 MAP (27.2% of P) 5.64
N	150 Urea	0.50
Mg	45.2	Lime (dolomitic) MC»/ 4 90/ G \	2.50
Ca	120.5
d 4 7
S	30
MICRO	B	0.5 H3B0s 0.017
Cu	2.0 i CuSO45H2O 0.047
Mn	3.0	MnSOa H,0 0.055
Zn	4.0 ZnSO4.7H2O	0.102
Mo	0.25	(NHJ6Mo7O74.4H,O | 0.003

Table 5B - Second greenhouse cycle added macronutrients

	Nutrients	Eléments doses (mg/kg)	Sources	g /pot of each source
MACRO	P	250	MAP (27.2% Of P)	5.64
N	150	Urea	0.50
Mg	20.0	Magnésium sulfate (9% Mg; 12% S)	1.33
Ca	40.0	Gypsum (16%Ca; 13%S)	1.50
S	63.9

In FIGURES 12A-C, the greenhouse protocol was used to grow a first cycle of corn, after which the crops were removed, with the aerial part dried for agronomie effîciency analysis. The resulting soil was used to grow corn for a second cycle. FIGURES 12A-C show that compositions disclosed herein can exhibît a significant yield increase when compared to KCI alone. Moreover, compositions disclosed herein demonstrate a comparative yield increase after successive applications (i.e., comparing results from the first vs. second cycle). MPM:KC1 composition proved îtself as an efficient option to provide the right K source, at the right time, being the right rate to the right place, achieving the efficiency for crop Systems growth (4R stewardshîp) (FIGURES 12A-C). [00149] Table 6 below shows additional data on the leaching propertîes of compositions according to the disclosure. The data were collected at 42 DAE from the leachate using flame photometry. The analyzed leachate (FIGURE 10) shows the K leaching losses when comparing different compositions. In the experiment with a K rate of 200, impiying a total of 1200 mg of K per column, only 1.1% of the K, added to the column in the fonn of MPM, was lost through leaching and ended in the leachate after the greenhouse cycle. In order to calculate the 1.1%, the 28 mg of K lost through leaching in the control column was subtracted from the 41 mg of K lost through leaching in the column containing MPM. The column with the composition of MPM:KCL 5:1 lost 4.3% of its K content, while the column with the composition of MPM:KCL 1:1 lost 13.8% of its K content through leaching. As a comparison, the column containing KCI lost 16.8% of its K content, demonstrating that compositions of MPM:KC! help reduce leaching losses. Ail percentages were calculated by subtracting the 28mg K leaching loss from the control. Leachate measurements were only taken during the first greenhouse cycle.

[00150] In the scénario with a K rate of 400, impiying a total of 2400 mg of K per column, results of different compositions were even more expressive. The column with MPM only lost 3.0% of its K through leaching. The column with the composition of MPM:KCU 5:1 lost 12.1% of its K content, while the column with the composition of MPM:KCL 1:1 lost 26.2% of its K content through leaching compared to 39.1% of the column containing KCI only. With higher K doses, while losses through leaching from KCI are significant, pure MPM and compositions of MPM:KC1 reduce these losses significantly.

Table 6 - K Leaching Data

K sources (K rate of 200) 1200 mg/column___________________________________________________________

	Control	MPM	MPM:KCI 5:1	MPM:KCI 1:1	KCI
Shoot dry weight (g per column)	28.9	64.1	75.2	80.3	75.0
Relative Yield to KCI (KCI = 100%)	38.6%	85.5%	100.3%	107.1%	100.0%
Total leached K per column (mg)	28	41	79	194	229
Total leached K % (less control)		1.1%	4.3% __	13.8%	16.8%

K sources (K rate of 400) 2400 mg/column

	Control	MPM	MPM:KC1 5:1	MPM:KCI 1:1	KCI
Shoot dry weight (g per column)	28.9	55.7	64.7	73.8	65.5
Relative Yield to KCI (KCI = 100%)	44.1%	85.0%	94.5%	112.6%	100.0%
Total leached K per column (mg)	28	99	318	656	966
Total leached K % (less control)		3.0%	12.1%	26.2%	39.1%

OTHER EMBODIMENTS

[00151] While certain embodiments hâve been described, the dîsclosure is not limited to such embodiments.

[00152] As an example, while the amount of K-feldspar phase has been described for certain MPM:KCI compositions, more generally, a composition including one or more components in addition to, or instead of, KCI can include at least about 1 wt. % (e.g., at least about 2 wt. %, at least about 3 wt. %, at least about 4 wt. %, at least about 5 wt. %, at least about 6 wt. %, at least about 7 wt. %, at least about 8 wt. %, at least about 9 wt. %, at least about 10 wt. %, at least about 11 wt. %, at least about 12 wt. %, at least about 13 wt. %, at least about 14 wt. %, at least about 15 wt. %, at least about 16 wt. %, at least about 17 wt. %, at least about 18 wt. %, at least about 19 wt. %, at least about 20 wt. %, at least about 21 wt. %, at least about 22 wt. %, at least about 23 wt. %, at least about 24 wt. %, at least about 25 wt. %, at least about 26 wt. %, at least about 27 wt. %, at least about 28 wt. %, at least about 29 wt. %, at least about 30 wt. %) K-feldspar phase and/or at most about 74.5 wt. % (e.g., at most about 70 wt. %, at most about 65 wt. %, at most about 60 wt. %, at most about 55 wt. %, at most about 50 wt. %, at most about 45 wt.; %, at most about 40 wt. %, at most about 35 wt. %, at most about 30 wt. %, at most about 25 wt. %, at most about 20 wt. %) K-feldspar phase, including ail ranges between these values. In some embodiments, a composition including one or more components in addition to, or instead of, KCI can include K-feldspar phase in an amount of about I wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, about 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 19 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, about 21 wt. %, about 22 wt. %, about 23 wt. %, about 24 wt. %, about 25 wt. %, about 26 wt. %, about 27 wt. %, about 28 wt. %, about 29 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 35 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 50 wt. %, about 55 wt. %, about 60 wt. %, about 65 wt. %, about 70 wt. %, about 74.5 wt. %.

[00153] As another example, a composition including one or more components in addition to, or instead of, KC1 can include at least about 1 wt. % (e.g., at least about 2 wt. %, at least about 3 wt. %, at least about 4 wt. %, at least about 5 wt. %, at least about 6 wt. %, at least about 7 wt. %, at least about 8 wt. %, at least about 9 wt. %, at least about 10 wt. %, at least about 15 wt. %, at least about 20 wt. %, at least about 25 wt. %, at least about 30 wt. %) tobermorite phase and/or at most about 55 wt. % (e.g., at most about 50 wt. %, at most about 45 wt. %, at most about 40 %, at most about 35 wt. %, at most about 30 wt. %, at most about 25 wt. %) tobermorite phase, including ail ranges between any of these values. In certain embodiments, a composition including one or more components in addition to, or instead of, KC1 can include tobermorite phase in an amount of about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, about 25 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 50 %, or about 55 wt. %.

[00154] As a further example, a composition including one or more components in addition to, or instead of, KC1 can include at least about 1 wt. % (e.g., at least about 2 wt. %, at least about 3 wt. %, at least about 4 wt. %, at least about 5 wt. %, at least about 6 wt. %, at least about 7 wt. %, at least about 8 wt. %, at least about 9 wt. %, at least about 10 wt. %,) hydrogrossular phase and/or at most about 15 wt.% (e.g., at most about 14 wt. %, at most about 13 wt. %, at most about 12 wt. %, at most about 11 wt. %, at most about 10 wt. %) hydrogrossular phase, including ail ranges between any of these values. In certain embodiments, a composition including one or more components in addition to, or instead of, KC1 can include hydrogrossular phase in an amount of about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, or about 10 wt. %.

[00155] As an additionai example, a composition including one or more components in addition to, or instead of, KO can include at least about 1 wt. % (e.g., at least about 2 wt. %, at least about 3 wt. %, at least about 4 wt. %, at least about 5 wt. %, at least about 6 wt. %, at least about 7 wt. %, at least about 8 wt. %, at least about 9 wt. %, at least about 10 wt. %, at least about 11 wt. %, at least about 12 wt. %, at least about 13 wt, %, at least about 14 wt. %, at least about 15 wt. %) dicalcium silicate hydrate phase and/or at most about 20 wt. % (e.g., at most about 19 wt. %, at most about 18 wt. %, at most about 17 wt.

%, at most about 16 wt. %, at most about 15 wt. %) dicalcium silicate hydrate phase, including ail ranges between any of these values. In certain embodiments, a composition including one or more components in addition to, or instead of, KCI can include dicalcium silicate hydrate phase in an amount of about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about U wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, about 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 19 wt. %, or about 20 wt. %. [00156] As another example, a composition including one or more components in addition to, or instead of, KCI can include at least about 1 wt. % (e.g., at least about 2 wt. %, at least about 3 wt. %, at least about 4 wt. %, at least about 5 wt. %, at least about 6 wt. %, at least about 7 wt. %, at least about 8 wt. %, at least about 9 wt. %, at least about 10 wt. %, at least about 11 wt. %, at least about 12 wt. %, at least about 13 wt. %, at least about 14 wt. %, at least about 15 wt. %, at least about 16 wt. %, at least about 17 wt. %, at least about 18 wt. %, at least about 20 wt. %, at least about 22 wt. %, at least about 24 wt. %, at least about 26 wt. %, at least about 28 wt. %, at least about 30 wt. %) amorphous phase and/or at most about 55 wt. % (e.g. at most about 50 wt. %, at most about 45 wt. %, at most about 40 wt. %, at most about 38 wt. %, at most about 36 wt. %, at most about 34 wt. %, at most about 32 wt.%, at most about 30 wt. %, at most about 28 wt. %, at most about 26 wt. %, at most about 24 wt. %, at most about 22 wt. %, at most about 20 wt. %) amorphous phase, including ali ranges between any of these values. In some embodiments, a composition including one or more components in addition to, or instead of, KCI can include amorphous phase in an amount of about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt %, about 7 wt. %, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 16 wt. %, about 17 wt. %, about 18 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, about 22 wt. %, about 24 wt. %, about 26 wt. %, about 28 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 32 wt. %, about 34 wt. %, about 36 wt. %, about 38 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 50 wt.%, or about 55 wt. %.

[00157] As yet another example, a composition including one or more components in addition to, or instead of, KCI can include K-feldspar phase in a range of between about 1% and 74.5 % by weight (e.g., between about 14.5 and 74.5 % by weight), tobermorite phase in a range of 0% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 50% by weight, between 0% and 45% by weight, between 0% and 40% by weight, between 0% and 35% by weight, between 0% and 30% by weight, between 0% and 25% by weight, between 0% and 20% by weight), hydrogrossular phase în a range of between 0% and 15% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 12% by weight, between 1 % and 15% by weight, between 1% and 12% by weight), dicalcium silicate hydrate phase in a range of between 0% and 20% by weight (e.g., between 0% and 15% by weight, between 0% and 12% by weight, between 0% and 10% by weight, between 1 % and 20% by weight, between 1 % and 15% by weight, between l%and 12% by weight, between !%and 10% by weight), and/or antorphous phase in a range of between 1% and 55% by weight (e.g., between 1% and 45% by weight).

[00158| As a further example, while embodiments of the weight ratios for certain MPM:KCI compositions hâve been described, more generally, fora given component in a composition, the weight ratio of MPM:component în the composition is at least 0.01:1 (e.g., at 0.05:1, at least 0.1:1, at least 0.2:1, at least 0.3:1, at least 0.4:1, at least 0.5:1, at least 0.6:1, at least 0.7:1, at least 0.8:1, at least 0.9:1 ) and/or at most 100:1 (e.g., at most 90:1, at most 80:1, at most 70:1, at most 60:1, at most 50:1, at most 40:1, at most 30:1, at most 20:1, at most 10:1, at most 1:1). In some embodiments, for a given component, the weight ratio of MPM:component in the composition is between 0.01:1 and 100:1. In certain embodiments, for a given component in a composition, the weight ratio of the MPM:component in the composition is between 0.1:1 and 20:1.

[00159] As still a further exemple, while CEC values hâve been provided for certain MPM:KCI compositions, more generally, a composition including one or more components in addition to, or instead of, KCI can hâve a CEC of at least 10 millimoles per kilogram (mmoic/kg) (e.g., at least 15 mmolc/kg, at least 20 mmolc/kg, at least 25 mmolc/kg, at least 30 mmolc/kg, at least 35 mmolc/kg, at least 40 mmolc/kg, at least 45 mmolc/kg, at least 50 mmolc/kg, at least 55 mmolc/kg, at least 60 mmolc/kg, at least 65 mmolc/kg, at least 70 mmolc/kg, at least 75 mmolc/kg, at least 80 mmolc/kg, at least 85 mmolc/kg, at least 90 mmolc/kg, at least 95 mmolc/kg, at least 100 mmolc/kg, at least 125 mmol/kg, at least 150 mmolc/kg, at least 175 mmol/kg, and/or at least 200 mmolc/kg) and/or at most 500 mmolc/kg (e.g., at most 450 mmolc/kg, at most 400 mmolc/kg, at most 350 mmolc/kg, at most 300 mmolc/kg, at most 250 mmolc/kg, at most 200 mmol/kg). [00160] Additional embodiments are encompassed by the daims.

Claims (10)

1. A method, comprising:

heating at a température of at least 90°C and at most 400°C for a time of at least 10 minutes and a pressure of at least one atmosphère: 1) a potassîc framework silicate ore; 2) at least one material selected from the group consisting of an oxide, a hydroxide, and a carbonate of at least one of an alkaline earth métal and an alkali métal; and 3) water, thereby producing a first product;

combining the first product with a source of a component to form a second product; and drying the second product to provide a composition comprising an MPM and the component, wherein the source of the component comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of KCI, a macronutrient source, a micronutrient source and a source of a bénéficiai element.

2. A method, comprising:

heating at a température of at least 90°C and at most 400°C for a time of at least 10 minutes and a pressure of at least one atmosphère: 1) a potassîc framework silicate ore; 2) at least one material selected from the group consisting of an oxide, a hydroxide, and a carbonate of at least one of an alkaline earth métal and an alkali métal; and 3) water, thereby producing a first product;

drying the first product to provide a second product; and combining the second product with a source of a component to provide a composition comprising the MPM and the component, wherein the source of the component comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of KCI, a macronutrient source, a micronutrient source and a source of a bénéficiai element.

3. A method, comprising:

heating at a température of at least 9Ü°C and at most 400°C for a time of at least 10 minutes and a pressure of at least one atmosphère: 1 ) a potassîc framework silicate ore; 2) ai least one material selected from the group consisting of an oxide, a hydroxide, and a carbonate of at least one of an alkaline earth métal and an alkali métal; 3) water; and 4) a source of a component, thereby producing a first product; and drying the first product to provide a composition comprising an MPM and the component, wherein the source of the component comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of KC1, a macronutrient source, a micronutrient source and a source of a bénéficiai element.

4. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one material comprises at least two materials selected from the group consisting of an oxide, a hydroxide and a carbonate of at least one of an alkaline earth métal and an alkali métal.

5. The method of claim any one of claims 1-3, wherein the at least one material comprises an oxide, a hydroxide, and a carbonate of at least one of an alkaline earth métal and an alkali métal.

6. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pressure is at most 300 atmosphères.

7. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the time is at most six hours.

8. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first product comprises a slurry comprising a precursor of the MPM.

9. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the potassic framework silicate ore comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of K-feldspar, kalsilite, nepheline, trachyte, rhyolite, ultrapotassic syenite, leucite, nepheline syenite, phonolîte, fenite, aplite and pegmatite.

10. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the MPM comprises at least two phases selected from K-feldspar phase, tobermorite phase, hydrogrossular phase, dicalcîum silicate hydrate and amorphous phase.