Slow release of NPK fertilizer using biodegradable porous carriers synthesized from agricultural waste

This study investigates the synthesis of porous biodegradable materials from rice bran and pineapple waste to determine their potential as carriers for slow-release NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) fertilizers. Through gel formation, solvent exchange, and carbonization; agro-waste gets converted into highly porous materials. A further examination of these materials demonstrates their adsorption capability and efficacy in progressive NPK fertilizer release. Experimental results show that both rice bran and pineapple waste-derived materials are effective slow-release fertilizer carriers. However, comparative investigation shows that rice bran-based material has better slow-release properties than its pineapple waste-derived counterpart. Here we also include the kinetic study of the release rate of NPK fertilizers which turned toward a Pseudo-zero order of release rate. This study emphasizes the necessity of repurposing agricultural byproducts for sustainable material synthesis, which contributes to the advancement of green chemistry and provides eco-friendly fertilizer delivery systems.