Compositions having variable hydrophobicity and coatings comprising same

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a composition comprising a carrier and an element. The carrier includes starch, and the element is covalently bonded to the carrier. The water drop contact angle of the composition is greater than the water drop contact angle of starch under the same conditions and after the same time of up to one hour. The composition may be used as a coating, such as for seeds or fertilizer granules, or may be added to soil for delivering the elements to plants in bioavailable form.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to compositions having variable hydrophobicity and coatings comprising the same. Specifically, this invention relates to compositions comprising a starch-containing carrier and an element, wherein the element is covalently bonded to the carrier. The invention also provides methods for preparing such compositions. Background Technology

[0002] In modern agriculture, nutrients are applied to the soil to maximize plant growth. However, because most nutrients are water-soluble, they are easily lost from the soil. For example, rainwater and irrigation can cause applied nutrients to migrate vertically along the soil, away from plant roots, thus limiting or hindering plant uptake. Another problem related to soil nutrient solubility is agricultural runoff, a major contributor to eutrophication of freshwater bodies. Phosphate, a commonly used fertilizer, can promote the growth of cyanobacteria and algae in aquatic bodies, leading to the production of harmful toxins and oxygen depletion.

[0003] Micronutrients such as iron, zinc, copper, boron, and magnesium are also important components of soil chemistry and can be depleted due to environmental influences and crop absorption, leading to decreased crop yields. Micromineral depletion can be caused by NPK fertilizers, which are known to dilute the concentration of other nutrients in plants. Although NPK fertilizers can increase crop yields, their use in combination with high-yielding crop varieties may result in lower concentrations of minerals and nutrients in the produced food compared to low-yielding conventional varieties (Henkel M. Sustainable Agriculture III: Agricultural Practices. 2005; 18-19).

[0004] Micronutrient deficiencies in soil can be alleviated by replacing the micronutrients in the soil; however, micronutrient leaching limits the effectiveness of fertilizers containing these nutrients. Furthermore, excessive application of micronutrients may lead to stunted crop growth or crop death (Kampfenkel K, Van Montagu M, Inze D. Effects of Iron Excess). Nicotiana plumbaginifolia Plants (Implications to Oxidative Stress). Plant Physiology. 1995; 107(3):725-735). Therefore, the application of micronutrients to soil must be done with care, and high concentrations in localized areas must be avoided.

[0005] For example, US 8,642,507 discloses a fertilizer formulation for reducing nutrient and pesticide leaching. This formulation uses a semi-soluble, biodegradable polymer that continuously releases nutrients in the presence of water. However, such formulations release nutrients regardless of biological needs.

[0006] Trace elements should also exist in bioavailable forms. Some trace elements (such as boron) are bioavailable in their common forms, but others are not. If certain trace elements are applied directly to the soil, several factors can reduce their bioavailability. For example, plants typically utilize ferrous ions (Fe2+). 2+ Iron. However, in soil, some trace elements exist as positively charged metal ions and readily react with oxygen and / or negatively charged hydroxide ions (OH-). - These ions react with oxygen or hydroxide ions to form iron ions (Fe). 3+ New compounds such as oxygen and hydroxide ions are being discovered, but these compounds have low bioavailability in plants. Oxygen and hydroxide ions are abundant in both soil and soilless growth media.

[0007] Agricultural fertilizers are typically water-soluble and are often coated with polymers to control their dissolution rate in the soil. However, the polymers used to coat fertilizers are a source of agricultural microplastic (MP) pollution. MP is generally considered to be plastic fragments smaller than 5 mm in size.

[0008] MP pollution has become a global environmental problem. MP mainly enters agricultural soils through the application of biosolids, wastewater irrigation, film mulching, polymer-based fertilizers, and atmospheric deposition. Due to its small particle size, high specific surface area, and persistence, MP is easily absorbed or adsorbed by plants and soil organisms, posing ecological risks to the agricultural environment and human health.

[0009] In recent years, compared with non-biodegradable or incompatible particle stabilizers such as silica, alumina, clay particles, and titanium dioxide, environmentally friendly starch has received more attention as a particle stabilizer in various Pickering emulsions. Hydrophobic modified starch has also been widely used in the pharmaceutical industry due to its wide availability, non-toxicity, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. However, the inherent hydrophilicity of starch greatly limits its application in this industry.

[0010] Therefore, there is still a need for a material that retains elements such as nutrients in a bioavailable form, leaching them into the surrounding environment only when chelated by biological needs, and that is non-toxic and not a source of MP pollution. Furthermore, there is a need for a material that can be used as a coating, is not a source of MP pollution, is non-toxic, and increases the hydrophobicity of the coating material. Summary of the Invention

[0011] In one aspect, this disclosure provides compositions for delivering elements to plants in response to biological needs and for use as coatings. Methods for preparing such compositions are also provided.

[0012] Various aspects of this disclosure provide a composition comprising a starch-containing carrier; and an element, wherein the element is covalently bonded to the carrier, and wherein, under the same conditions and after the same time period of up to one hour, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of the starch.

[0013] In various embodiments, the composition is insoluble in water.

[0014] In various embodiments, the carrier is soluble in water or partially soluble in water.

[0015] In various embodiments, the salt of the element is soluble in water or partially soluble in water.

[0016] In various embodiments, the element is a nutrient used for plant growth.

[0017] In various embodiments, the element is a cation.

[0018] In various embodiments, the element is Fe. 2+ Fe 3+ Mn 2+ Cu + Cu 2+ Ca 2+ Mg 2+ Mo 4+ Mo 6+ or Zn 2 + .

[0019] In various embodiments, the carrier contains at least about 20% starch. For example, the carrier may contain at least about 60% starch. For example, the carrier may contain at least about 70% starch.

[0020] In various embodiments, under the same conditions and after the same time period of up to 1600 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is at least 20° greater than that of starch. o .

[0021] In various embodiments, under the same conditions and after the same time period of 3960 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is at least 20° greater than that of starch. o .

[0022] In various embodiments, at a time point of 100 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is 70°.o Up to 160 o In contrast, at a time point of 100 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch was 0. o .

[0023] In various embodiments, at a time point of 100 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is 90°. o Up to 160 o In contrast, at a time point of 100 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch was 0. o .

[0024] In various embodiments, at a time point of 1600 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is 70°. o Up to 160 o In contrast, at a time point of 1600 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch was 0. o .

[0025] In various embodiments, at a time point of 3960 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is 70°. o Up to 160 o In contrast, at a time point of 3960 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch was 0. o .

[0026] In various embodiments, at a time point of 1600 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is 90°. o Up to 160 o In contrast, at a time point of 1600 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch droplets was 0°. o .

[0027] In various embodiments, at a time point of 3960 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is 90°. o Up to 160 o In contrast, at a time point of 3960 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch was 0. o .

[0028] In various embodiments, at a time point of 100 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than 90 degrees. o In contrast, at a time point of 100 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch was 0. o .

[0029] In various embodiments, at a time point of 100 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than 20°. o In contrast, at a time point of 100 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch was 0. o .

[0030] In various embodiments, at a time point of one hour, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than 20°. o In contrast, at one hour and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch was 0°. o .

[0031] In various embodiments, under the same conditions and at a time point of 10 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of starch.

[0032] In various embodiments, under the same conditions and at a time point of 1600 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of starch.

[0033] In various embodiments, under the same conditions and at a time point of 3960 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of starch.

[0034] In various embodiments, under the same conditions and at a time point of 10 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is at least 60 degrees greater than that of starch. o .

[0035] In various embodiments, the moisture content of the composition is about 40% (wt / wt) or less. For example, the moisture content of the composition may be about 10% (wt / wt) or less.

[0036] In various embodiments, the composition contains at least about 5% (wt / wt) of the element based on the total weight of the composition.

[0037] In various embodiments, the composition contains about 1% to about 17% (wt / wt) of the element based on the total weight of the composition. For example, the composition may contain about 1% to about 5% (wt / wt) of the element based on the total weight of the composition.

[0038] In various embodiments, the carrier is pea starch, lentil starch, oat starch, potato starch, sweet potato starch, corn starch, legume starch, cassava starch, wheat starch, rice starch, sorghum starch, millet starch, taro starch, yam starch, arrowroot starch, sago palm starch, plantain starch, banana starch, pumpkin starch, or a combination thereof.

[0039] In various embodiments, the composition is used as a coating. For example, the composition can be used as a coating for seeds or fertilizer granules.

[0040] Various aspects of this disclosure also provide a method for delivering elements to an organism, the method comprising adding a composition as disclosed herein to the environment of the organism. In various embodiments, the environment is soil, and the organism is a plant.

[0041] Various aspects of this disclosure also provide a method for preparing compositions as disclosed herein, the method comprising: mixing an alkali in a solvent to form a mixture; spraying the mixture onto a starch-containing carrier and mixing to form a starch mixture; adding an elemental salt or ionic salt to form an elemental mixture; spraying water onto the elemental mixture to form a product mixture; and stirring, heating, and drying the product mixture to a moisture content of about 40% (wt / wt) or less to form the composition.

[0042] In various embodiments, the heating is performed between about 20°C and about 80°C.

[0043] In various embodiments, the amount of alkali in the mixture is from about 1.0 g / mL to about 1.5 g / mL.

[0044] In various embodiments, the amount of salts or ionic salts of the elements in the elemental mixture is from about 0.3 g / mL to about 0.7 g / mL.

[0045] In various embodiments, the solvent is water.

[0046] In various embodiments, the base is potassium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, potassium carbonate, sodium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, or a combination thereof. For example, the base may be potassium hydroxide. In various embodiments, the hydroxyl groups may also be deprotonated by electrochemical surface activation.

[0047] In various embodiments, the salt or ionic salt of the element is ZnSO4, Fe2O3, CuSO4, MnSO4, ZnCl2, FeCl3, MnCl2, FeSO4, CuCl2, MnCl2, ZnO, ZnCO3, MgSO4, MgCl2, FeCO3, Fe2(CO3)3, MnCO3, Zn(PO4)2, Mn3(PO4)2, or a combination thereof. For example, the salt or ionic salt of the element may be ZnSO4, Fe2O3, or CuSO4.

[0048] In various embodiments, the method uses an alkali comprising about 10% to about 25% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier.

[0049] In various embodiments, the method uses an alkali comprising about 25% to about 50% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the salt or ionic salt of the element. For example, the method uses an alkali comprising about 30% to about 45% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the salt or ionic salt of the element.

[0050] In various embodiments, the method uses a salt or ionic salt of the element comprising about 5% to about 55% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier.

[0051] Various aspects of this disclosure also provide a coating comprising the composition described herein.

[0052] Various aspects of this disclosure also provide a seed coated with a composition as described herein.

[0053] Various aspects of this disclosure also provide a fertilizer granule coated with a composition as described herein.

[0054] Other aspects and features of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following description of specific embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the appended claims. Attached Figure Description

[0055] In the accompanying drawings illustrating embodiments of this disclosure, Figure 1 SEM-EDS images of the zinc-starch composition as disclosed herein are shown.

[0056] Figure 2 SEM-EDS images of the iron-starch composition as disclosed herein are shown.

[0057] Figure 3 SEM-EDS images of the copper-starch composition as disclosed herein are shown.

[0058] Figure 4 SEM-EDS images of the manganese-starch composition as disclosed herein are shown.

[0059] Figure 5 The image shows a comparison of the water droplet contact angles at time 0 seconds between untreated starch (left) and an iron-starch composition as disclosed herein (right).

[0060] Figure 6 The comparison of water droplet contact angles between untreated starch and the compositions prepared according to Examples 1-4 is shown at time points of 0 seconds, 1 second, 10 seconds, and 20 seconds.

[0061] Figure 7The variation of water droplet contact angle over time is shown for various iron-starch compositions with different iron contents. The iron percentage refers to the percentage (wt / wt) of the iron salt used in the preparation of the compositions relative to the total weight of the carrier. 5 (Fe) indicates that the composition is prepared using iron salts accounting for 5% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier; 10 (Fe) indicates that the composition is prepared using iron salts accounting for 10% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier; 15 (Fe) indicates that the composition is prepared using iron salts accounting for 15% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier; 25 (Fe) indicates that the composition is prepared using iron salts accounting for 25% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier; 35 (Fe) indicates that the composition is prepared using iron salts accounting for 35% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier; 45 (Fe) indicates that the composition is prepared using iron salts accounting for 45% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier; and 55 (Fe) indicates that the composition is prepared using iron salts accounting for 55% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier.

[0062] Figure 8 Photographs of corn seeds coated with zinc-starch compositions containing various zinc concentrations as disclosed herein are shown compared to an uncoated seed control (f), including 0.1% (wt / wt) zinc based on the total weight of the composition and seeds (a), 0.2% (wt / wt) zinc based on the total weight of the composition and seeds (b), 0.3% (wt / wt) zinc based on the total weight of the composition and seeds (c), 0.4% (wt / wt) zinc based on the total weight of the composition and seeds (d), and 0.5% (wt / wt) zinc based on the total weight of the composition and seeds (e).

[0063] Figure 9 Box plots are shown of hypocotyl length, root dry weight, and hypocotyl dry weight of maize plants grown from maize seeds coated with zinc-starch compositions containing different zinc concentrations as disclosed herein, compared to an uncoated control and a control treated with a fungicide or insecticide (full formulation). The zinc concentrations include 0.1% (wt / wt) zinc (RX494 1%), 0.2% (wt / wt) zinc (RX494 2%), 0.3% (wt / wt) zinc (RX494 3%), 0.4% (wt / wt) zinc (RX494 4%), and 0.5% (wt / wt) zinc (RX494 5%) based on the total weight of the composition and seeds.

[0064] Figure 10The photographs show rapeseed germination, comparing untreated seeds (left photo) with seeds coated with the manganese-starch composition disclosed herein, 1.5 g of manganese-starch composition per kilogram of rapeseed.

[0065] Figure 11 Germination rate, seedling fresh weight, normal seedling weight, and seedling dry weight are shown as functions of different application amounts of the manganese-starch composition disclosed herein on rapeseed.

[0066] Figure 12 Photographs of chickpea seed germination are shown, comparing untreated seeds (left photo) with seeds coated with a zinc-starch composition as disclosed herein, 1.5 g of zinc-starch composition per kilogram of chickpea seeds.

[0067] Figure 13 Germination rate, seedling fresh weight, normal seedling weight, and seedling dry weight are shown as functions of different application amounts of the zinc-starch composition disclosed herein on chickpea seeds.

[0068] Figure 14 Photographs of germinating lentil seeds are shown, comparing untreated seeds (left photo) with seeds coated with an iron-starch composition as disclosed herein, at a ratio of 0.25 g of iron-starch composition per kilogram of lentil seeds.

[0069] Figure 15 Germination rate, seedling fresh weight, normal seedling weight, and seedling dry weight are shown as functions of different application amounts of the iron-starch composition disclosed herein on lentil seeds. Detailed Implementation

[0070] In the context of this disclosure, all terms used follow their conventional meanings as commonly understood.

[0071] In various embodiments, this disclosure provides compositions for providing nutrients to plants and for use as coatings. For example, the compositions can interact with soil microbiomes to release nutrients to plants. The compositions comprise a carrier containing starch; and an element, wherein the element is covalently bonded to the carrier, and wherein, under the same conditions and after the same time period of up to one hour, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of the starch. In various embodiments, the carrier is soluble or partially soluble in water. In various embodiments, the compositions are insoluble in water. Because the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of the starch under the same conditions, the composition is more hydrophobic than starch, indicating that the composition has lower solubility in water than starch, and thus can be used to reduce the dissolution rate of the element in the soil. Furthermore, depending on the application of the composition, the hydrophobicity of the composition can be altered by increasing or decreasing the content of the element in the composition. For example, increasing the content of the element in the composition increases the hydrophobicity of the composition, while decreasing the content of the element in the composition decreases the hydrophobicity of the composition. Therefore, in various embodiments, if the composition is used as a coating, it can be "adjusted" for the coated compound or particles to alter their hydrophobicity. The compositions disclosed herein can be used as sustained-release or controlled-release coatings for plant micronutrients and macronutrients. The compositions contain environmentally friendly materials that are non-toxic, harmless, and free of microplastics, and are prepared using environmentally friendly processes. In addition to the elements, the carrier can also provide additional plant nutrients to the soil. Therefore, the compositions disclosed herein provide benefits for plant nutrition and regulate soil nutrient mobility. Furthermore, these coating products are biodegradable, offering additional benefits to soil health by increasing soil microbial growth.

[0072] The term "hydrophobic" refers to the property of a composition to repel water.

[0073] The term "hydrophilicity" refers to the property of a composition to have an affinity for water.

[0074] The term "element" refers to a nutrient that sustains an organism by promoting its growth, replenishing its losses, and / or providing energy. The element can be ingested by the organism through any means by which it absorbs nutrients. For example, if the organism is a plant, it typically absorbs nutrients through its roots and leaves. The element can be a plant growth nutrient. In various embodiments, the element can be a cation. In various embodiments, the element can be Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, Zn, B, Si, Ca, Mo, or Mg and any of their isotopes. In various embodiments, the element is Fe. 2+ Fe 3+ Mn 2+ Ca 2+Cu + Cu 2+ Mg 2+ Mo 4+ Mo 6+ or Zn 2+ In various embodiments, the element is Zn. 2+ Mn 2+ Fe 2+ or Fe 3+ .

[0075] The salts of the element are soluble in water or partially soluble in water. The term "partially soluble" means that 1 gram of the element salt requires 100 mL to 1000 mL of water to dissolve.

[0076] In various embodiments, the element is present in a bioavailable form. The term "bioavailable form" means that the trace element exists in an oxidized state, allowing for transmembrane transport without requiring reduction or oxidation before transmembrane transport.

[0077] The term "biological demand" refers to the acquisition or interaction behavior between an organism and the composition, wherein the element is acquired or chelated from the composition and enters the cells or tissues of the organism via transmembrane transport.

[0078] The release rate of the element from the carrier is determined by the bioavailability surrounding the composition. For example, at higher bioavailability concentrations, the element may be released from the carrier faster than at lower bioavailability concentrations. Higher bioavailability concentrations may originate from the number of microorganisms in a specific area. Because the release rate depends on bioavailability, localized high-concentration areas of the element will not form. Such localized high-concentration areas are undesirable because the element may be toxic to plants at high concentrations. The mechanism of the element's release from the composition and absorption by plants will be described in more detail below.

[0079] In various embodiments, the composition may contain at least about 1% (wt / wt) of the element based on the total weight of the composition. In various embodiments, the composition may contain at least about 2% (wt / wt) of the element based on the total weight of the composition. In various embodiments, the composition may contain at least about 4% (wt / wt) of the element based on the total weight of the composition. In various embodiments, the composition may contain at least about 5% (wt / wt) of the element based on the total weight of the composition. In various embodiments, the composition may contain at least about 6% (wt / wt) of the element based on the total weight of the composition. In various embodiments, the composition may contain at least about 8% (wt / wt) of the element based on the total weight of the composition. In various embodiments, the composition may contain at least about 10% (wt / wt) of the element based on the total weight of the composition. In several various embodiments, the composition may contain from about 1% to about 17% (wt / wt) of the element, or any amount within that range, based on the total weight of the composition. In various embodiments, the composition may contain about 1% (wt / wt) to about 5% (wt / wt) of the element, or any amount within that range, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0080] In various embodiments, the carrier comprises starch. Starch is a polymeric carbohydrate composed of multiple glucose units linked by glycosidic bonds. It consists of two types of molecules: linear and helical amylose and amylopectin. Starch is a biopolymer composed of α-amylose and amylopectin, produced by most green plants. For example, based on the total weight of the carrier, the carrier may contain at least about 20% starch. For example, based on the total weight of the carrier, the carrier may contain at least about 30% starch. For example, based on the total weight of the carrier, the carrier may contain at least about 40% starch. For example, based on the total weight of the carrier, the carrier may contain at least about 50% starch. For example, based on the total weight of the carrier, the carrier may contain at least about 60% starch. For example, based on the total weight of the carrier, the carrier may contain at least about 70% starch. In various embodiments, the polymer carrier is composed of starch. In various embodiments, the carrier may comprise pea starch, lentil starch, oat starch, potato starch, sweet potato starch, corn starch, legume starch, cassava starch, wheat starch, rice starch, sorghum starch, millet starch, taro starch, yam starch, arrowroot starch, sago palm starch, plantain starch, banana starch, pumpkin starch, or any combination thereof. The term "fiber" refers to the water-insoluble component of the plant material. The carrier may also be synthesized.

[0081] In various embodiments, the moisture content of the composition may be about 40% (wt / wt) or less based on the total weight of the composition. For example, the moisture content of the composition may be about 30% (wt / wt) or less based on the total weight of the composition. For example, the moisture content of the composition may be about 20% (wt / wt) or less based on the total weight of the composition. For example, the moisture content of the composition may be about 10% (wt / wt) or less based on the total weight of the composition.

[0082] The term "water droplet contact angle" refers to the angle at which a liquid-vapor interface meets a solid surface. A water droplet contact angle is formed when a drop of water is placed on the surface of the composition. The surface tension of the water and the attractive force between the water and the surface cause the droplet to form a dome, which may subsequently flatten due to the properties of the aqueous phase and the surface. The measured water droplet contact angle depends on the roughness of the surface used for measurement, the temperature and pressure of the measurement environment, and the vapor phase atmosphere. The water droplet contact angle can be used to measure the hydrophobicity of compositions disclosed herein by preparing a sample of the composition and then adding a drop of water to its surface. Depending on the properties of the composition, the measurement of the water droplet contact angle indicates the hydrophobicity of the composition. For example, if the water droplet contact angle is greater than 90°... o If the water droplet contact angle is less than 90°, then the composition can be classified as hydrophobic; conversely, if the water droplet contact angle is less than 90°, then the composition can be classified as hydrophobic. o Therefore, the composition can be classified as hydrophilic. For pure starch, this is a hydrophilic material where the water droplet contact angle is low, and over time, the initial dome formed "flattens" on the surface, for example... Figure 6 As shown. Therefore, the element is combined with starch to adjust the hydrophobicity of starch.

[0083] In various embodiments, under the same conditions and after the same time period of up to one hour, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of starch. "Same conditions" includes the same vapor atmosphere used for measurement and the same ambient temperature and pressure. In various embodiments, under the same conditions and after the same time period of up to 2 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of starch. In various embodiments, under the same conditions and after the same time period of up to 5 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of starch. In various embodiments, under the same conditions and after the same time period of up to 10 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of starch. In various embodiments, under the same conditions and after the same time period of up to one minute, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of starch. In various embodiments, under the same conditions and after the same time period of up to 2 minutes, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of starch. In various embodiments, under the same conditions and after the same time period of up to 5 minutes, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of starch. In various embodiments, under the same conditions and after the same time period of up to 10 minutes, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of starch. In various embodiments, under the same conditions and after the same time period of up to 1600 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of starch. In various embodiments, under the same conditions and after the same time period of up to 3960 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of starch. In various embodiments, under the same conditions and after the same time period of up to 1600 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is at least 20 degrees larger than that of starch. o In various embodiments, under the same conditions and after the same time period of 3960 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is at least 20° greater than that of starch. o In various embodiments, under the same conditions and after the same time period of up to one hour, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is at least 20° greater than that of starch. o In various embodiments, under the same conditions and after the same time period exceeding one hour, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is at least 20° greater than that of starch. o In various embodiments, under the same conditions and after the same time period of up to 10 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is at least 60° greater than that of starch. o In various embodiments, at a time point of 10 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is 70°. o Up to 160 o In contrast, at the 10-second time point and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch droplets was less than 20°. oIn various embodiments, at a time point of 100 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is 70°. o Up to 160 o In contrast, at 100 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch droplets was 0°. o In various embodiments, at a time point of 1600 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is 70°. o Up to 160 o In contrast, at a time point of 1600 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch droplets was 0. o In various embodiments, at a time point of 3960 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is 70°. o Up to 160 o In contrast, at a time point of 3960 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch droplets was 0. o In various embodiments, at a time point of 100 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than 90 degrees. o In contrast, at 100 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch droplets was 0°. o In various embodiments, at a time point of 100 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than 20°. o In contrast, at 100 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch droplets was 0°. o In various embodiments, at a time point of one hour, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than 20°. o In contrast, at one hour and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch droplets was 0°. o .

[0084] The compositions disclosed herein are prepared by: mixing an alkali in a solvent to form a mixture; spraying the mixture onto a starch-containing carrier and mixing to form a starch mixture; adding an elemental salt or ionic salt to form an elemental mixture; spraying water onto the elemental mixture to form a product mixture; and stirring, heating, and drying the product mixture to a moisture content of about 40% (wt / wt) or less to form the compositions. By using the above methods, the starch is partially hydrolyzed, thereby improving the reactivity of the starch.

[0085] In various embodiments, the heating is performed at room temperature. In various embodiments, the heating is performed between about 20°C and about 80°C, or at any temperature within that range. For example, the heating may be performed between about 20°C and about 60°C, or at any temperature within that range.

[0086] In various embodiments, the amount of alkali in the mixture is from about 1.0 g / mL to about 1.5 g / mL, or any amount within that range.

[0087] In various embodiments, the amount of salts or ionic salts of the elements in the elemental mixture is from about 0.3 g / mL to about 0.7 g / mL, or any amount within that range.

[0088] In various embodiments, the solvent may be water, methanol, ethanol, propanol, acetone, ethyl acetate, acetonitrile, or any combination thereof. For example, the solvent may be water.

[0089] In various embodiments, the base is potassium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, potassium carbonate, sodium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, or a combination thereof. For example, the base may be potassium hydroxide. In various embodiments, the hydroxyl groups may also be deprotonated by electrochemical surface activation.

[0090] In various embodiments, the salt or ionic salt of the element is ZnSO4, Fe2O3, CuSO4, MnSO4, ZnCl2, FeCl3, MnCl2, FeSO4, CuCl2, MnCl2, ZnO, ZnCO3, MgSO4, MgCl2, FeCO3, Fe2(CO3)3, MnCO3, Zn(PO4)2, Mn3(PO4)2, or a combination thereof. For example, the base may be ZnSO4. For example, the base may be Fe2O3. For example, the base may be CuSO4. For example, the base may be MnSO4.

[0091] In various embodiments, an alkali comprising about 10% to about 25% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier is used in the method.

[0092] In various embodiments, the method uses an alkali comprising about 25% to about 50% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the salt or ionic salt of the element, or any amount within that range. For example, the method uses an alkali comprising about 30% to about 45% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the salt or ionic salt of the element.

[0093] In various embodiments, the method uses a salt or ionic salt of the element comprising about 5% to about 55% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier or any amount within that range.

[0094] In various embodiments, the bonding between the support and the element includes element-starch bonding. In various embodiments, the bonding between the support and the element includes chemical bonding. In various embodiments, the chemical bonding includes element-hydroxyl covalent bonding. In various embodiments, the element may form element aggregates. In various embodiments, the aggregates include element-element covalent bonds.

[0095] In various embodiments, the composition resists element leaching from water. In various embodiments, the carrier composition can reduce or minimize the leaching of elements into a water source.

[0096] In various embodiments, the composition may be non-toxic. For example, the composition does not cause nutrient toxicity when applied at high concentrations. The composition may be non-toxic to plants, humans, and animals.

[0097] In various embodiments, the composition can be added to the environment of a plant to promote its growth. The environment can be farmland or soil. In various embodiments, the composition can be applied to the soil. Not wishing to be bound by theory, the soil microbiome can consume the starch present in the composition, thereby releasing the element into the soil in a bioavailable form for plant uptake. More specifically, the presence of the composition in the soil leads to an increase in microbial biomass due to the bioavailable carbon source, namely starch. As the carbon source is consumed, the microbial community releases nutrients back into the soil in a bioavailable form for plant uptake.

[0098] Alternatively, the compositions described herein can be used as coatings to alter the hydrophobicity of coating particles or compounds, facilitating their delivery to a target or target environment. Such coatings are free of microplastics and therefore do not cause microplastic pollution; the coatings are also non-toxic to plants. For example, the compositions described herein can be used as coatings for seeds. When the seeds are planted in soil, the soil microbiome consumes starch, releasing the element in a bioavailable form. The presence of the element may contribute to seed germination and growth. The compositions described herein can also be used as coatings for fertilizer particles as a means of modulating the hydrophobicity of the fertilizer particles to improve their availability in the soil. For example, for water-soluble fertilizer particles, a composition described herein can be used to coat them, increasing the hydrophobicity of the coated particles, thereby reducing the rate at which the fertilizer particles dissolve in water and reducing the amount of fertilizer washed away from the soil. Alternatively, for water-insoluble fertilizer particles, a composition described herein can be used to coat them, reducing the hydrophobicity of the coated particles, thereby increasing the availability of the fertilizer in the soil. Coatings described herein can also be applied to other industries, such as the pharmaceutical industry.

[0099] Example These embodiments illustrate various aspects of the invention and demonstrate that various conditions are required to prepare compositions comprising a starch-containing carrier and an element, wherein the element is covalently bonded to the carrier, and that under the same conditions and after the same time period of up to one hour, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of the starch. The selected embodiments illustrate advantages obtainable compared to other alternative methods; therefore, these advantages are for illustrative purposes only and do not necessarily represent all aspects of the invention.

[0100] As used herein, the term "about" refers to a change of about + / - 10% from a given value. It should be understood that, whether explicitly mentioned or not, such change is always included in any given value provided herein.

[0101] Example 1: Preparation of Zinc-Starch Composition 25 g of KOH was dissolved in 20.4 mL of water. This solution was sprayed onto 100 g of pea starch to form a pea starch mixture, which was then stirred for 30 minutes. Subsequently, 55 g of zinc sulfate was dissolved in 82.5 mL of water. This solution was sprayed onto the pea starch mixture and stirred for 30 minutes. The mixture was then heated to 55°C and stirred for 60 minutes. The resulting composition was then dried until the moisture content was below 10%, at which point the synthesis was considered complete. Figure 1 SEM-EDS images of the zinc-starch composition are shown. The spectra reveal the presence of zinc-starch covalent bonds (such as zinc hydroxide covalent bonds) on the particles, as indicated by the presence of K₂SO₄ salt products on the particle surface. Zinc can bind to individual starch molecules or crosslink between multiple starch molecules.

[0102] The properties of the zinc-starch composition are shown in Table 1. In the context of these embodiments, leaching refers to the degree to which the element dissolves in water when the composition is placed in neutral water. For example, the composition is immersed in fresh water at room temperature to determine whether the element therein (zinc in this example) dissolves in the water. The pH of the water is also measured. The method used to determine zinc leaching is the Marczenko method (Z. Marczenko & M. Balcerzak, “Separation, Preconcentration, and Spectrophotometry in Inorganic Analysis”, Chapter 26-2-2-1, 10-phenanthroline method (pages 228-230)” Elsevier, Oct. 18, 2000). The zinc loading of the composition was also tested by elemental analysis. Analysis was performed using a CHN analyzer. The CHN analysis provides the weight percentages of C, H, N, and O in the composition. Since no other elements are present in the composition, the difference between this mass percentage and the total mass of the sample is the zinc content.

[0103] Table 1. Properties of the zinc-starch composition prepared according to Example 1

[0104] Example 2: Preparation of iron-starch composition 12.7 g of KOH was dissolved in 10 mL of water. This solution was sprayed onto 100 g of pea starch to form a pea starch mixture, which was then stirred for 35 minutes. Subsequently, 35 g of ferric sulfate was dissolved in 70 mL of water. This solution was sprayed onto the pea starch mixture and stirred for 30 minutes. The mixture was then heated to 40°C and stirred for 30 minutes. The resulting composition was then dried until the moisture content was below 10%, at which point the synthesis was considered complete. Figure 2 SEM-EDS images of the iron-starch composition are shown.

[0105] Table 2 summarizes the properties of the iron-starch composition. All measurements were performed as described in Example 1 above.

[0106] Table 2. Properties of the iron-starch composition prepared according to Example 2

[0107] Example 3: Preparation of copper-starch composition 10 g of KOH was dissolved in 8 mL of water. The solution was sprayed onto 100 g of pea starch, and the mixture was stirred for 40 minutes. Then, 30 g of copper sulfate was dissolved in 75 mL of water. This solution was sprayed onto the pea starch mixture and stirred for 60 minutes. The mixture was then heated to 60°C and stirred for 60 minutes. The mixture was then dried until the moisture content was below 10%, at which point the synthesis was considered complete. Figure 3 SEM-EDS images of the copper-starch composition are shown.

[0108] Table 3 summarizes the properties of the copper-starch composition. All measurements were performed as described in Example 1 above.

[0109] Table 3. Properties of the copper-starch composition prepared according to Example 3

[0110] Example 4: Preparation of manganese-starch composition 10 g of KOH was dissolved in 8 mL of water. The solution was sprayed onto 100 g of pea starch, and the mixture was stirred for 40 minutes. Then, 30 g of manganese sulfate was dissolved in 75 mL of water. This solution was sprayed onto the pea starch mixture and stirred for 60 minutes. The mixture was then heated to 60°C and stirred for 60 minutes. The mixture was then dried until the moisture content was below 10%, at which point the synthesis was considered complete. Figure 4 SEM-EDS images of the manganese-starch composition are shown.

[0111] Table 4 summarizes the properties of the manganese-starch composition. All measurements were performed as described in Example 1 above.

[0112] Table 4. Properties of the manganese-starch composition prepared according to Example 2

[0113] Example 5: Hydrophobicity of the starch composition A series of water droplet contact angle measurements were performed on the compositions prepared in Examples 1-4. Samples of each composition from Examples 1-4 were pressed into tablets or granules of the same size using a mold with a diameter of 3 cm. Measurements were then performed on a smooth, compacted surface. At time 0 seconds, a drop of water was added to the surface of each sample. The droplets were recorded on video from time 0 seconds to time 1600 seconds. Video frames were captured at each time point, and the contact angle was measured. Untreated starch was also tested as a control, prepared as the same pressed composition or granules.

[0114] Figure 5The contact angle of untreated starch at time = 0 seconds is shown in comparison with that of an iron-starch composition as disclosed herein. The contact angle of the untreated starch is 50°. o It is considered to be hydrophilic; the contact angle of the iron-starch composition is 140°. o It is considered to be hydrophobic.

[0115] Figure 6 The comparison of water droplet contact angles between untreated starch and the compositions prepared according to Examples 1-4 is shown at time points of 0 seconds, 1 second, 10 seconds, and 20 seconds. It can be seen that all compositions of Examples 1-4 are more hydrophobic than untreated starch.

[0116] Studies were also conducted to evaluate the differences in water droplet contact angles between compositions containing different amounts of elements (iron in this example). Figure 7 The droplet contact angle is shown as a function of time for various iron-starch compositions containing different amounts of iron. The iron percentage refers to the percentage (wt / wt) of the iron salt used in the preparation of the composition relative to the total weight of the carrier. For example, 5(Fe) indicates that the composition is prepared using an iron salt comprising 5% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier; 10(Fe) indicates that the composition is prepared using an iron salt comprising 10% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier; 15(Fe) indicates that the composition is prepared using an iron salt comprising 15% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier; 25(Fe) indicates that the composition is prepared using an iron salt comprising 25% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier; 35(Fe) indicates that the composition is prepared using an iron salt comprising 35% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier; 45(Fe) indicates that the composition is prepared using an iron salt comprising 45% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier; and 55(Fe) indicates that the composition is prepared using an iron salt comprising 55% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier. Generally, increasing the amount of iron in the composition corresponds to increasing hydrophobicity, while a lower iron loading corresponds to lower hydrophobicity.

[0117] Example 6: Germination of corn seeds This experiment was conducted in a growth chamber to evaluate the effects of various zinc-starch compositions on the germination rate of maize seeds. The seeds were coated with zinc-starch compositions containing different zinc concentrations, including 1% (wt / wt) zinc, 2% (wt / wt) zinc, 3% (wt / wt) zinc, 4% (wt / wt) zinc, and 5% (wt / wt) zinc based on the total mass of the composition. When preparing the coated seeds, the coated seeds contain 0.1% (wt / wt) zinc (RX494 1%), 0.2% (wt / wt) zinc (RX494 2%), 0.3% (wt / wt) zinc (RX494 3%), 0.4% (wt / wt) zinc (RX494 4%), and 0.5% (wt / wt) zinc (RX494 5%) based on the total weight of the composition and seeds. The treatment employs a completely randomized design with 5 replicates and two control groups (raw seeds as the first control). Figure 8 In China, these are called "uncoated seeds". Figure 9 Seeds referred to as "uncoated" and seeds treated with fungicides or insecticides (in China) Figure 9 The treatment consisted of 350 seeds (7 treatments x 5 replicates x 10 subsamples). Each seed subsample (10 seeds) was placed on a layer of Whatman filter paper in a 15 cm diameter petri dish and maintained at 22°C, 50% humidity, and a 16 / 8 light / dark condition. The seeds were moistened with water as needed. Germination rate, root weight, hypocotyl length, and hypocotyl weight were recorded after 7 days.

[0118] See pictures of corn seeds germinating. Figure 8 .Depend on Figure 8 As can be seen, all seeds coated with the zinc-starch composition exhibited increased germination, with the seeds coated with 5% (wt / wt) zinc showing the highest germination rate. This demonstrates the effectiveness of coating seeds with the composition disclosed herein in improving maize seed germination.

[0119] Figure 9 Box plots are shown for hypocotyl length, root dry weight, and hypocotyl dry weight for each of five different zinc-starch compositions compared to two controls. "RX494" indicates a zinc-starch composition containing a labeled amount of zinc based on the total weight of the composition, expressed as % (wt / wt). Plant growth was improved by coating the seeds with the compositions shown as median dry root and dry hypocotyl lengths compared to the untreated control, demonstrating that the zinc-starch compositions disclosed herein effectively improve seed germination.

[0120] Example 7: Seed germination This experiment was conducted in a growth chamber to evaluate the effect of application rates of various compositions as disclosed herein on the germination of various seeds. Different application rates of the compositions on the seeds were tested and compared with those of seeds not coated with the compositions (in... Figure 11 , 13 Compare with (as referred to in 15 as "UTC" or untreated control).

[0121] Photos of rapeseed sprouting Figure 10 As shown. By Figure 10 As can be seen, comparing the left image (unprocessed) with the right image (processed), the germination rate of all seeds coated with the manganese-starch composition (1.5 g of manganese-starch composition per kilogram of rapeseed) was improved. Figure 11 The changes in germination rate, seedling fresh weight, normal seedling weight, and seedling dry weight with the amount of manganese-starch composition applied to rapeseed were shown.

[0122] Photos of chickpea seeds sprouting, as shown Figure 12 As shown. By Figure 12 As can be seen, comparing the left image (unprocessed) with the right image (processed), the germination rate of all seeds coated with the zinc-starch composition (1.5 g of zinc-starch composition per kilogram of chickpea seeds) was improved. Figure 13 Germination rate, seedling fresh weight, normal seedling weight, and seedling dry weight are shown as functions of the amount of the zinc-starch composition applied to chickpea seeds.

[0123] Photos of lentil seeds sprouting, as shown Figure 14 As shown. By Figure 14 As can be seen, comparing the left image (unprocessed) with the right image (processed), the germination rate of all seeds coated with the iron-starch composition (0.25 g of iron-starch composition per kilogram of lentil seeds) was improved. Figure 15 Germination rate, seedling fresh weight, normal seedling weight, and seedling dry weight are shown as functions of the amount of the iron-starch composition applied to lentil seeds.

[0124] Although various embodiments of the invention have been disclosed herein, many adaptations and modifications can be made within the scope of the invention based on common knowledge to those skilled in the art. Such modifications include replacing any aspect of the invention with a known equivalent to achieve the same result in substantially the same manner. Numerical ranges include the numerical value itself that defines the range. The word “comprising” is used herein as an open-ended term, substantially equivalent to the phrase “including but not limited to,” and the word “comprising” has the corresponding meaning. As used herein, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, the singular forms “a (or an)” and “the” include plural references. Thus, for example, referring to “one thing” includes more than one such thing. References cited herein do not imply an admission that such references are prior art to the invention. Any priority documents and all publications cited in this specification, including but not limited to patents and patent applications, are incorporated herein by reference as if each individual publication were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference, and as if fully set forth herein. The invention includes all embodiments and variations substantially as described above and with reference to the examples and drawings. Claims (as amended under Article 19 of the Treaty) 1. A composition comprising: A carrier containing starch; and element, Wherein, the element is covalently bonded to the carrier, and Under the same conditions and for the same duration of one hour, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of starch. 2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the element is a cation. 3. The composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the element is Fe. 2+ Fe 3+ Mn 2+ Cu + Cu 2+ Ca 2+ Mg 2+ Mo 4+ Mo 6+ or Zn 2+ . 4. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the carrier comprises at least 60% starch. 5. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, at a time point of 100 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is 70°. o Up to 160 o In contrast, at a time point of 100 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch was 0.o . 6. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, at a time point of 3960 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is 70°. o Up to 160 o In contrast, at a time point of 3960 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch was 0. o . 7. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, at a time point of one hour, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than 20°. o In contrast, at one hour and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch was 0°. o . 8. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, under the same conditions and at a time point of 3960 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than the water droplet contact angle of the starch. 9. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, under the same conditions and at a time point of 10 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is at least 60 degrees larger than that of the starch. o . 10. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, based on the total weight of the composition, the composition contains at least about 5% (wt / wt) of the element. 11. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the carrier is pea starch, lentil starch, oat starch, potato starch, sweet potato starch, corn starch, legume starch, cassava starch, wheat starch, rice starch, sorghum starch, millet starch, taro starch, yam starch, arrowroot starch, sago palm starch, plantain starch, banana starch, pumpkin starch, or a combination thereof. 12. A method for preparing a composition according to any one of claims 1 to 11, the method comprising: The base is mixed in the first solvent to form a mixture; The mixture is sprayed onto a starch-containing carrier and mixed to form a starch mixture; Adding salts or ionic salts of elements to form mixtures of elements; Water is sprayed onto the element mixture to form a product mixture; and The product mixture is stirred, heated, and dried to a moisture content of about 40% (wt / wt) or less to form the composition. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the heating is performed between about 20°C and about 60°C. 14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the amount of the salt or ionic salt of the element in the elemental mixture is from about 0.3 g / mL to about 0.7 g / mL. 15. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the solvent is water. 16. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the alkali is potassium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, potassium carbonate, sodium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, or a combination thereof. 17. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein the salt or ionic salt of the element is ZnSO4, Fe2O3, CuSO4, MnSO4, ZnCl2, FeCl3, MnCl2, FeSO4, CuCl2, MnCl2, ZnO, ZnCO3, MgSO4, MgCl2, FeCO3, Fe2(CO3)3, MnCO3, Zn(PO4)2, Mn3(PO4)2, or a combination thereof. 18. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 17, wherein an alkali is used, comprising about 10% to about 25% (w / w) of the total weight of the carrier. 19. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 18, wherein a salt or ionic salt of the element is used, comprising about 5% to about 55% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier. 20. A seed or fertilizer granule coated with a composition as defined in any one of claims 1 to 11.

Claims

1. A composition comprising: A carrier containing starch; and element, in, The element is covalently bonded to the carrier, and Under the same conditions and for the same duration of one hour, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of starch.

2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein, The salts of the element are soluble in water or partially soluble in water.

3. The composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The element is a nutrient used for plant growth.

4. The composition according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein, The element is a cation.

5. The composition according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein, The element is Fe. 2+ Fe 3+ Mn 2+ Cu + Cu 2+ Ca 2+ Mg 2+ Mo 4+ Mo 6+ or Zn 2+ .

6. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The carrier contains at least 20% starch.

7. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The carrier contains at least 60% starch.

8. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, Under the same conditions and after the same time period of 3960 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is at least 20° greater than that of the starch. o .

9. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, At the 100-second mark, the water droplet contact angle of the composition was 70°. o Up to 160 o In contrast, at a time point of 100 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch was 0. o .

10. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, At time 3960 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition was 70°. o Up to 160 o In contrast, at a time point of 3960 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch was 0. o .

11. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, At the 100-second mark, the water droplet contact angle of the composition was greater than 90 degrees. o In contrast, at a time point of 100 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch was 0. o .

12. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, At the 100-second mark, the water droplet contact angle of the composition was greater than 20°. o In contrast, at a time point of 100 seconds and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch was 0. o .

13. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, At one hour, the water droplet contact angle of the composition was greater than 20°. o In contrast, at one hour and under the same conditions, the contact angle of starch was 0°. o .

14. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, Under the same conditions and at a time point of 10 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of starch.

15. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, Under the same conditions and at a time point of 3960 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is greater than that of starch.

16. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, Under the same conditions and at a time point of 10 seconds, the water droplet contact angle of the composition is at least 60 degrees larger than that of the starch. o .

17. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein, The composition has a moisture content of 10% (wt / wt) or less.

18. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein, Based on the total weight of the composition, the composition contains at least about 5% (wt / wt) of the element.

19. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein, Based on the total weight of the composition, the composition contains about 1% to about 5% (wt / wt) of the element.

20. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein, The carrier is pea starch, lentil starch, oat starch, potato starch, sweet potato starch, corn starch, legume starch, cassava starch, wheat starch, rice starch, sorghum starch, millet starch, taro starch, yam starch, arrowroot starch, sago palm starch, plantain starch, banana starch, pumpkin starch, or a combination thereof.

21. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 20, used as a coating.

22. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 20, used as a coating for seed or fertilizer granules.

23. A method for preparing a composition according to any one of claims 1 to 20, the method comprising: The base is mixed in the first solvent to form a mixture; The mixture is sprayed onto a starch-containing carrier and mixed to form a starch mixture; Adding salts or ionic salts of elements to form mixtures of elements; Water is sprayed onto the element mixture to form a product mixture; and The product mixture is stirred, heated, and dried to a moisture content of about 40% (wt / wt) or less to form the composition.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein, The heating is performed between about 20°C and about 60°C.

25. The method according to claim 23 or 24, wherein, The amount of alkali in the mixture is about 1.0 g / mL to about 1.5 g / mL.

26. The method according to claim 23, 24 or 25, wherein, The amount of salts or ionic salts of the elements in the elemental mixture is from about 0.3 g / mL to about 0.7 g / mL.

27. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 26, wherein, The solvent is water.

28. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 27, wherein, The alkali is potassium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, potassium carbonate, sodium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, or a combination thereof.

29. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 28, wherein, The salt or ionic salt of the element is ZnSO4, Fe2O3, CuSO4, MnSO4, ZnCl2, FeCl3, MnCl2, FeSO4, CuCl2, MnCl2, ZnO, ZnCO3, MgSO4, MgCl2, FeCO3, Fe2(CO3)3, MnCO3, Zn(PO4)2, Mn3(PO4)2, or a combination thereof.

30. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 29, wherein, The salt or ionic salt of the element is ZnSO4, Fe2O3, FeSO4, MnSO4 or CuSO4.

31. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 30, wherein, The base used is approximately 10% to approximately 25% (w / w) of the total weight of the carrier.

32. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 31, wherein, The base is used, comprising about 25% to about 50% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the salt or ionic salt of the element.

33. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 32, wherein, The element is used in salts or ionic salts comprising approximately 5% to approximately 55% (wt / wt) of the total weight of the carrier.

34. A coating comprising the composition defined in any one of claims 1 to 20.

35. A seed coated with a composition as defined in any one of claims 1 to 20.

36. A fertilizer granule coated with a composition as defined in any one of claims 1 to 20.

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