Dual reservoir hydrogel technology for nutrient delivery and moisture retention

Overview

The dual reservoir hydrogel technology is a groundbreaking biodegradable composite designed to significantly improve nutrient delivery and soil moisture retention in agricultural applications. By utilizing a biochar–lignin–alginate hydrogel matrix, this technology ensures controlled nutrient release over an extended period of 30 to 90 days. The use of biochar as a nutrient reservoir combined with the hydrogel's water retention capabilities enhances nutrient-use efficiency, reduces leaching, and supports plant growth even under drought conditions. This environmentally friendly solution eliminates the need for synthetic polymer coatings, addressing concerns related to microplastics and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Technical specifications

• Biochar nutrient reservoir: Nutrients such as urea, monoammonium phosphate, and potassium sulfate are loaded into biochar particles through vacuum-assisted infiltration.
• Hydrogel water reservoir: The calcium-crosslinked lignin–alginate hydrogel matrix acts as a water reservoir and diffusion barrier, facilitating controlled nutrient release.
• Biodegradability: All components are renewable and biodegradable, ensuring environmental sustainability.
• Enhanced performance: The composite granules show improved swelling behavior, water-holding capacity, and biodegradation rates.
• Scalability: Designed for compatibility with common fertilizer inputs and scalable for commercial production.

Technology readiness level

This technology is currently at TRL 3, having been validated in laboratory settings. Future phases will focus on evaluating material performance and conducting greenhouse studies to compare this composite with conventional fertilizers. The goal is to achieve proof-of-concept validation, demonstrating enhanced nutrient release and soil moisture retention capabilities.