Work

Optimization of nutrient release behavior of modified starch/bentonite coated urea fertilizer in soil using response surface methodology

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Efficient nitrogen management is essential for sustainable agriculture as conventional urea rapidly dissolves and causes nutrient losses. This study optimized the formulation of a slow-release urea fertilizer (SRUF) coated with modified starch and bentonite clay using response surface methodology (RSM). A central composite design examined the effects of bentonite amount, starch concentration, and urea particle size on nitrogen release in soil. Analysis of variance showed all main factors significantly influenced nutrient release ( p < 0.05), with an excellent model fit (R 2 = 0.9997). The optimal conditions were 24.97% bentonite, 9.49% starch, and 2.92 mm particle size yielding a predicted 45.01% release profile after 30 days which closely matching the experimental value (45.56%). Compared with raw urea, the optimized SRUF provided sustained release behavior for over 30 days, demonstrating its potential to enhance nitrogen-use efficiency, and reduce environmental losses through a biodegradable, cost-effective fertilizer system.

Source: Discover Applied Sciences

DOI: 10.1007/s42452-026-08634-w

Authors: Desbelom Welegebrial Hagos, Wondalem Misganaw Golie, Gebreyohannes Gebrehiwot Tesfay, Birhane Ekubay Teweldebrhan, Maebele Gereziher Zegeye

Institutions: Mekelle University, Ethiopian Defence University

Language: English

Topic: Polymer-Based Agricultural Enhancements

Subfield: Agronomy and Crop Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7149349474

FWCI:

Cites: 35

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Related to: 10