Preparation and properties of a double-coated slow-release NPK compound fertilizer with superabsorbent and water-retention

A double-coated slow-release NPK compound fertilizer with superabsorbent and water-retention was prepared by crosslinked poly (acrylic acid)/diatomite-containing urea (the outer coating), chitosan (the inner coating), and water-soluble granular fertilizer NPK (the core). The effects of the amount of crosslinker, initiator, degree of neutralization of acrylic acid, initial monomer and diatomite concentration on water absorbency were investigated and optimized. The water absorbency of the product was 75 times its own weight if it was allowed to swell in tap water at room temperature for 2 h. Atomic absorption spectrophotometer and element analysis results showed that the product contained 8.47% potassium (shown by K2O), 8.51% phosphorus (shown by P2O5), and 15.77% nitrogen. We also investigated the water-retention property of the product and the slow release behavior of N, P and K in the product. This product with excellent slow release and water-retention capacity, being nontoxic in soil and environment-friendly, could be especially useful in agricultural and horticultural applications. (c) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.