Researchers develop low-cost fertilizer from local mineral rich rocks
A team of researchers has developed a new fertilizer made from locally available rocks that could help farmers improve crop production while reducing fertilizer costs. The innovation may also support efforts to improve food security in regions where access to agricultural inputs is limited.
Many agricultural areas have fertile soils and sufficient water but crops still require important nutrients to grow successfully. Potassium is one of the key nutrients needed by plants because it helps them absorb water, resist diseases, and produce higher yields.
Traditional potassium fertilizers are commonly made from potash, which is often transported over long distances and can be expensive for farmers.
Researchers explored the use of potassium rich rocks as an alternative source of nutrients. These rocks naturally contain potassium, but the nutrient is locked inside strong mineral structures and cannot easily be absorbed by plants. To solve this challenge, scientists developed a treatment process that changes the rocks into a form that releases nutrients more effectively.
“We have a lot of potassic silicates like feldspars that have a non-negligible concentration of potassium. But the problem is they have a very strong crystalline structure, so they are not going to provide a sufficient amount of potassium to support the plants,” said Abdellatif Elghali, professor at University Mohammed VI Polytechnic in Benguerir, Morocco.
The process involves crushing the rocks, adding water and special treatment agents, and heating the material. This method helps convert the minerals into a more soluble form that can gradually release valuable nutrients.
Testing showed that the treated rocks released potassium and calcium quickly at first and then continued releasing nutrients slowly over time. The material also supplied additional elements such as magnesium and silicon, which are important for soil health and plant development.
Laboratory studies found that crops including corn and soybean were able to absorb nutrients from the new fertilizer as effectively as they could from conventional potash fertilizers. Researchers believe this approach could provide a more affordable and sustainable option for farmers.
Advanced scientific analysis helped researchers better understand how the treatment process changed the minerals and improved nutrient availability. Future work will focus on larger field trials and further improvements to ensure the fertilizer can be produced efficiently on a larger scale.
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