Interaction of Aspergillus niger in Double-Coated Urea Granules Reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions from N Fertilization

Urea is the main nitrogen source applied in agriculture and directly impacts agricultural productivity. However, it presents significant losses that reduce plants' nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and promote greenhouse gas emissions, such as N2O. The coating technology allows for an increase in the NUE, making the nutrient available gradually and uniformly, and combining with microorganisms' action. This work developed and evaluated a double-coating system based on castor oil-polyurethane and maize starch activated by Aspergillus niger for urea granules. We tested the coated urea granules in Palisade grass (Brachiaria brizantha) and measured losses of N2O and NH3. The results showed that the combination between controlled release and Aspergillus niger action reduced the N2O and NH3 emissions, suggesting a local buffering pH effect. The urea loss reduction significantly impacted plant development, increasing N use efficiency, dry mass production, and N uptake. The results support the suitability of a coating system combining controlled release and microorganisms, aiming to better synchronize the nutrient with the plant and reduce environmental impacts.

Automated summary

Urea is the main nitrogen source in agriculture, but it leads to significant losses and greenhouse gas emissions. This study developed a double-coating system for urea granules, combining controlled release and microorganisms, to reduce nitrogen losses and improve plant productivity. The results showed a reduction in N2O and NH3 emissions, as well as increased nitrogen use efficiency, plant growth, and nitrogen uptake. The findings support the use of coating technologies to synchronize nutrient release with plant needs and reduce environmental impacts.