SEED UNIT WITH CHARCOAL AND POLYMERIC SUPERABSORBENT

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a seed unit (1) comprising at least one seed (2), a layer (3), for example of biochar, and a polymeric superabsorbent (5), such as a cross-linked acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer potassium salt, and optionally a shell (9) and further auxiliary substances, wherein the polymeric superabsorbent (5) has a grain size of 50 µm - 400 µm and serves not only as a water reservoir but also as a disintegrant element.

[0002] Agriculture is already directly affected by climate change. The predicted shift in precipitation to winter and long, dry summers were particularly evident in 2018. In addition, there is an increase in extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall, storms, and floods. Another little-noticed phenomenon is the absence of cold snaps. However, this is of great importance for agriculture in mid-latitudes: pests and their larvae are no longer exposed to severe frost in winter, allowing more of them to survive.

[0003] In addition, the EU Commission is reducing the number of approved herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides by allowing their approvals to expire, prohibiting new products, and limiting the use of approved products. Its goal is to better protect both people and the environment from the poisons used. At the same time, however, conventional agriculture lacks alternatives to protect its crops, which leads to repeated exemptions to protect farmers from crop failure.

[0004] Also affected by bans and exemptions is seed pelleting with corresponding neonicotinoids. Pelleting involves coating the seeds with various substances before sowing. This has several advantages: 1. Seed homogenization. This allows for easier and more precise mechanical seeding, ensuring the optimal seeding density per m² is achieved. 2. The pelleting compound contains crop-specific pesticides. This allows for very targeted application and only small amounts. Furthermore, pelleting provides particularly effective protection for the plant during a particularly critical growth phase – germination. 3. Plant-specific nutrients can be added to the pelleting compound. Here, too, the addition is very targeted.

[0005] Given the major challenges facing agriculture, a method such as pelleting makes sense, as it specifically targets the weaknesses of the respective crops and thus contributes to food security. Furthermore, it applies pesticides only where they are needed, significantly reducing the consumption of the corresponding substances. Accordingly, further development of pelleting is desirable to better prepare agriculture for the challenges of the 21st century.

[0006] The use of carbon and / or polyacrylates in connection with seeds has been described in various prior art.

[0007] CN109168409A, for example, describes a seed lubricant in which biochar is mixed with, among other ingredients, a humectant made of potassium and sodium acrylate. However, the humectant, made of potassium and sodium acrylate, is ground very finely ("1000 to 1500 meshes") and therefore cannot be used as a disintegrant.

[0008] JPH09248017A describes a coated rice seed in which, for example, polyacrylic resin is applied to the seed surface and activated carbon powder is added. However, the polyacrylate resin is used for caking / sticking and not in particulate form.

[0009] DE 699 05 889 T2 (the German translation of European patent EP 1 091 641 B1) describes a substrate additive as pourable granules with a grain size of 0.3 to 3.0 mm for use in germination units. The substrate additive comprises various substances, including superabsorbent polymers (SAP, with Stockosorb® being used in the examples), as well as fillers such as vermiculite, wood fibers, or mineral fibers, with polyethylene glycol and polyvinyl alcohol mentioned as binding agents. However, no pellet is formed around the seed; the superabsorbent polymer is introduced directly into the soil, where it serves only as a water reservoir and not (also) as a disintegrating agent.

[0010] EP 373 348 A1 describes a substrate additive containing a porous ion exchange material and a porous mineral additive, as well as charcoal / activated carbon and polyacrylamide. However, again, no pellet is formed around the seed, and the polyacrylamide is introduced at the plant root, where it serves only as a water reservoir and not (also) as a disintegrant.

[0011] WO2004 / 036975 A1 describes a process for producing a pellet in which peat is mixed with, for example, an insecticide, and in which a seed is introduced through a hole into the dried mixture. Aside from the fact that peat, unlike biochar, has an acidic pH, no superabsorbent is used.

[0012] EP 2680685 B1 describes a composition for coating a seed, wherein the seed is at least partially surrounded by a layer of guar or derivatized guar.

[0013] US 2012 / 291346 A1 further discloses a seed unit in the form of a pellet.

[0014] As can be seen from the above-mentioned state of the art, there is still a need for a seed unit consisting of a seed and having a beneficial and adaptable layer surrounding it as a result of pilling or pelleting in order to combat the weaknesses of the respective crops in a very targeted manner. SUMMARY AND DEFINITIONS

[0015] The subject matter of the invention is defined in claim 1 with preferred embodiments in the dependent claims.

[0016] Compared to the prior art, this seed unit has the advantage that—particularly when the seed unit takes the form of a pellet or pile, or when the layer at least partially and especially completely encloses the seed—the combination with the polymeric superabsorbent breaks up this layer / pellet / pile to facilitate the seed / seedling's spread after the seed has been planted. The surprising germination success of the seed unit according to the invention is likely due to the fact that the polymeric superabsorbent, which was previously considered only as a water reservoir, can expand enormously upon absorbing water and thus break up the layer / pellet / pile. However, it appears that the polymeric superabsorbent may need to have a specific grain size, which must not be selected too large or too small, to achieve this effect.

[0017] Experiments have shown that there are particularly favorable ranges of physical dimensions, such as size, etc., for the material from which the layer is made (particularly with regard to the carbon and the polymeric superabsorbent). On the one hand, these dimensions, particularly with regard to the polymeric superabsorbent, as described above, allow it to expand when it absorbs water, breaking open the layer / pellet / pill of the seed unit, thus facilitating germination. The dimensions (e.g., the grain size) should not be too small, as otherwise the expansion (due to swelling) of the polymeric superabsorbent might no longer be sufficient to break open the layer, etc., in the seed unit.On the other hand, the dimensions / grain size of the layer material (especially the carbon and the polymer superabsorbent) should not be chosen too small, so that the layer around the seed (especially if it consists of several sub-layers built upon each other) does not become too solid, making it difficult to break open. The dimensions (e.g., the grain size) of the material should also not be too large, as otherwise, a uniform coating of the seed, especially with several thinner sub-layers, becomes more difficult due to the sheer size of the material.

[0018] Accordingly, the material of the layer (preferably selected from activated carbon, biochar and / or biochar) could have a dimension (such as a grain size; in particular as a diameter (particularly in the case of a more spherical shape of the grain) or possibly also maximum axial length (particularly in the case of a more elliptical shape of the seed unit)) of 30 µm - 220 µm, or of 40 µm - 220, or of 30 µm - 180 µm, or of 50 µm - 200 µm, or of 50 µm - 150 µm or of 80 µm - 120 µm in order to achieve good results.

[0019] In relation to the dimension of the seed unit (for example, its diameter), this results in a ratio to the dimension of the layer material (for example, its diameter, in particular of the coal and the polymeric superabsorbent). A preferred ratio of the diameter of the seed unit to the diameter of the materials of the layer, in particular of the coal and the polymeric superabsorbent, is, for example, from 650:1 to 10:1, or from 500:1 to 20:1, or from 400:1 to 30:1, from 300:1 to 40:1, or from 200:1 to 50:1. In particular, the diameter of the materials of the layer (3), in particular of the coal and the polymeric superabsorbent (5), are to be regarded as synonymous with their grain size. Accordingly, the material of the layer could have a dimension / a grain size from 30 µm - 180 µm, with a ratio of the diameter of the seed unit to the grain size of the materials of the layer of, for example, 200:1 to 50:1; from 50 µm - 150 µm, with a ratio of the diameter of the seed unit to the grain size of the materials of the layer of 300:1 to 40:1, or in particular from 200:1 to 50:1; from 80 µm - 120 µm, with a ratio of the diameter of the seed unit to the grain size of the materials of the layer of 400:1 to 30:1, or from 300:1 to 40:1, or in particular from 200:1 to 50:1; have.

[0020] The term "seed unit" in the sense of the invention is a unit that comprises a seed and a "layer" that at least partially surrounds it, consisting of a seed and a layer that at least partially surrounds it.

[0021] The seed unit takes the form of a pellet or a pill. Also preferably, the "layer" completely surrounds the seed (2) and / or the "layer" and the seed are / form the pellet / pill. The seed unit is particularly adapted to the standard dimensions for commercially available seed drills, so that the seed unit has, for example, a diameter (particularly with a more spherical shape of the seed unit) or maximum axial length (with a more elliptical shape of the seed unit) of 2 mm to 20 mm, 3 mm to 15 mm, 5 mm to 20 mm, or 3 mm to 10 mm. In particular, the layer can surround the seed in the form of at least one, preferably several sub-layers—at least partially, preferably completely. The layer can be applied to the seed in several sub-layers.These partial layers are preferably applied in a thickness of 0.1 to 5 mm, or 0.5 to 3 mm, or 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, or 5 mm. This allows, depending on the choice, for example, seed units with a diameter (particularly with a more spherical seed unit shape) or possibly a maximum axial length (particularly with a more elliptical seed unit shape) of 2 mm to 20 mm, 3 mm to 15 mm, 5 mm to 20 mm, or 3 mm to 10 mm, or even 5 mm to 10 mm to be produced. In particular, this allows sufficient material to be distributed around the seed to achieve good results.

[0022] The term "pellet" or "pill" within the meaning of the invention is a form of "seed unit" in which the "layer" at least partially or (at least almost) completely encloses the "seed," so that the "layer" and the "seed," optionally with a "shell," are / form the pellet / pill. The mass comprising the "layer" is applied to the seed by means of a pelleting or pilling process. The pellet / pill usually has a round or elliptical shape. Pellet and pill are used interchangeably in this text.

[0023] The term "seed" within the meaning of the invention refers in principle to any type of seed and includes, in particular, the individual unit of such a seed. Small-grained seeds (<3.5 mm) in particular benefit from the inventive seed unit (pelletization / pilling), as they can thereby be adapted to the aforementioned standard size for commercially available seed drills. The "seed" is preferably selected from seeds for carrots, lettuce, tomatoes, sugar beets, fodder beets, rapeseed, camelina, flax, brassicas, beetroot, radish, parsnip, celery, parsley, chives, or medicinal herbs such as valerian, thyme, oregano, ribwort plantain, or echinacea.

[0024] The term "layer" in the sense of the invention refers to a mass or matrix that at least partially, in particular completely, envelops the seed, for example as a result of an optionally multiple pelleting or pilling process (optionally in several sublayers), which contains a polymeric superabsorbent and an adhesive of biological origin, and optionally other excipients. The / a main component of the layer is, for example, carbon (which can form a matrix), whereby this carbon is preferably selected from activated carbon, biochar, and / or biochar. The "layer" preferably contains 5-30 wt.% or 10-20 wt.% of a polymeric superabsorbent. The "layer" can preferably also contain 1-15 wt.% of adhesive of biological origin, 5-30 or 10-20 wt.% of polymeric superabsorbent, and 55-94 wt.% of carbon. The "layer" can in particular also contain 1 - 15 wt.% adhesive of biological origin, 5 - 30 or 10 - 20 wt.-% polymeric superabsorbent, 1-20 or 5-15 wt.% nutrients or nutrient elements (if present), 1-10 wt.% repellent and / or antifeedant elements (if present), 0.001-1 wt.% fortifying agent or fortifying agent elements (if present), with the remainder of the "layer" consisting of carbon. Optionally, the "layer" can be surrounded by a shell. It is also preferred if the "layer" contains at least 75 wt.%, at least 90 wt.%, at least 94 wt.%, or at least 95 wt.% carbon. Preferably, the superabsorbent and any other excipients are embedded in the "layer" as particles, and / or the gluten of biological origin is distributed approximately evenly or homogeneously in the "layer," and in particular in the carbon. In particular, the layer can surround the seed in the form of at least one, preferably several, partial layers—at least partially, preferably completely.The coating can be applied to the seed in several sub-layers. These sub-layers are preferably applied in thicknesses of 0.1 to 5 mm, or 0.5 to 3 mm, or 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, or 5 mm. This allows, for example, seed units of 2 mm to 20 mm, 3 mm to 15 mm, 5 mm to 20 mm, 3 mm to 10 mm, or even 5 mm to 10 mm to be produced, depending on the choice. In particular, this allows sufficient material to be distributed around the seed in the "layer" to achieve good results. Preferably, the material of the layer (the polymeric superabsorbent and the carbon, preferably selected from activated carbon, biochar and / or biochar, with the adhesive of biological origin, etc.) can have a grain size of 50 µm - 200 µm, or of 50 µm - 150 µm or of 80 µm - 120 µm.The term "coal" in the context of the invention refers in principle to any type of coal, with activated coal, wood charcoal, biochar, or plant charcoal being particularly preferred. Pyrolytically produced biochar is particularly preferred. One example is biochar from HerCarbo, for example, made from herbs or forest wood chips. It is particularly preferred if the coal is preferably ground and / or if the grain size of the coal is ≤ 150 µm, ≤ 200 µm, ≤ 250 µm, or ≤ 300 µm, in particular ≤ 200 µm. It is also particularly preferred if the grain size of the coal is ≤ 150 µm, ≤ 200 µm, ≤ 250 µm or ≤ 300 µm, in particular ≤ 200 µm or 30 µm - 200 µm, 40 µm - 200 µm, 30 µm - 180 µm or 50 µm - 150 µm, or 80 µm - 120 µm. It is also preferred if the coal in the "layer" is at least 50 wt.%, at least 75 wt.%, at least 90 wt.%, at least 95 wt.%, at least 99 wt.% or 100 wt.%.-% consists of activated carbon, biochar, and / or biochar, preferably activated carbon or biochar, especially pyrolytically produced biochar. In particular, thanks to its composition, biochar, for example, contains trace elements that are immediately available to the seedling developing from the seed, both temporally and spatially.

[0025] The basis of the seed unit according to the invention, and in particular the mass from which the "layer" is composed, is to be formed, in particular, by pyrolytically produced biochar. Biochar has two important properties: It has a very large surface area that can absorb nutrients and water and serves as a habitat for microorganisms. Thus, it protects the seedling from dry periods, reduces the need for further soil irrigation, and creates ideal growth conditions. Furthermore, its structure is stable for several decades. Since it is usually composed of over 90% carbon, this carbon is permanently removed from the atmosphere.

[0026] The term "polymeric superabsorbent" in the context of the invention is defined as a polymer capable of absorbing many times its own weight in polar liquids. Examples are mineral or starch-based polyacrylates. Preferably, the "polymeric superabsorbent" serves as a water storage and disintegrating element, and / or is solid or crystalline, or both solid and crystalline, and / or is ground, and / or has a grain size of 100 µm - 350 µm, or 150 µm - 300 µm, or 175 µm - 225 µm. The "polymeric superabsorbent" can also have a grain size of 50 µm - 200 µm, or 50 µm - 150 µm, or 80 µm - 120 µm. Preferably, the superabsorbent is embedded in the "layer" - as particles - and / or contained in the "layer" at 5 - 30 wt.% or 10 - 20 wt.%.Preferably, the "polymeric absorber" is a polyacrylamide or a crosslinked arylamide / acrylic acid, a polyacrylate, an acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer, which may optionally be crosslinked, or mixtures thereof. More preferably, the "polymeric absorber" is a sodium polyacrylate or potassium polyacrylate, or an acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer, potassium or sodium salt, or a crosslinked acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer, potassium or sodium salt, a crosslinked arylamide / acrylic acid in the form of a potassium or sodium salt, or mixtures thereof. Especially preferably, the "polymeric absorber" is a potassium polyacrylate or an acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer, potassium salt, or a crosslinked acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer, potassium salt, or a crosslinked arylamide / acrylic acid in the form of a potassium salt, or mixtures thereof. A particularly preferred example is Stockosorb®.Alternatively, the "polymeric superabsorbent" is a biological polymeric superabsorbent selected from a cellulose- or lignin-based hydrogel or a natural rubber derivative, preferably selected from a cellulose- or lignin-based hydrogel. Particularly preferred examples are Polyter GT or Agrobiogel.

[0027] The term "glue of biological origin" within the meaning of the invention is defined as any form of binding material of biological origin that binds the components of the "layer," such as the coal, and binds them with the polymeric superabsorbent and, if appropriate, the excipients in the "layer," whereby the "layer" is also bonded to (or around) the seed—in the case of a pellet. Preferably, the glue of biological origin is a protein-containing glue, in particular a glutin-based glue, a fibrin-based glue, a glue based on the amino acid DPPA, or a fish glue. Particularly preferably, the glue of biological origin is a fish glue from cold-water fish. The glue of biological origin can also contain additives such as gum arabic or protein hydrolysate. Preferably, the glue of biological origin is distributed approximately evenly or homogeneously in the "layer," and in particular in the coal. The "layer" can preferably contain 1–15 wt.-% adhesive of biological origin.

[0028] The term "shell" in the context of the invention is defined as a solid casing surrounding the seed unit, wherein the casing preferably (almost) completely encloses the layer. The casing is preferably made of gelatin, cellulose, carrageenan, starch, or glue.

[0029] The term "adjuvants" within the meaning of the invention is defined as substances that are immediately available in time and space to the seedling emerging from the seed and provide additional biostimulants to ensure a high germination and growth rate. In particular, the adjuvants include nutrients or nutrient elements, repellents or antifeedant elements, and fortifying agents or fortifying elements. The adjuvants are preferably embedded in the "layer," in particular, the adjuvants are embedded in the "layer" as particles. The "layer" can preferably contain 1-20 or 5-15 wt.% nutrients or nutrient elements (if present), 1-10 wt.% repellents and / or antifeedant elements (if present), and 0.001-1 wt.% fortifying agents or fortifying elements (if present).

[0030] The term "nutrients or nutrient elements" within the meaning of the invention is defined as macro- and micronutrients that are immediately available to the seedling developing from the seed, both temporally and spatially. These are preferably fertilizers, for example protein-based fertilizers such as vinasse / stillage or protein hydrolysates. The nutrients or nutrient elements are preferably organically based, and these are preferably protein-based fertilizers, preferably vinasse / stillage or protein hydrolysates. The "layer" can preferably contain 1-20 or 5-15 wt.% nutrients or nutrient elements (if present). The "nutrients or nutrient elements" are preferably embedded in the "layer"—in particular as particles.

[0031] In particular, the biochar will be "charged" with an organic fertilizer. This fertilizer is immediately available to the seedling in terms of time and space and provides additional biostimulants. This ensures a high germination and growth rate.

[0032] The term "repellent and / or antifeedant elements" within the meaning of the invention is defined as substances that provide immediate temporal and spatial protection to the seedling developing from the seed from damage by pests. In particular, the repellents and antifeedant elements used according to the invention are based on aromas or extracts, preferably on plant and / or aroma extracts, in particular on essential plant and / or aroma extracts. In particular, the repellents and antifeedant elements used according to the invention are extracts from cayenne pepper, neem tree ginger, oregano, geraniums (especially from South African Cape geranium), cistus herb, or thyme. The repellents and antifeedant elements used according to the invention (if present) are preferably embedded in the "layer," with the repellent and / or antifeedant elements (if present) being present in the "layer" at a concentration of 1-10% by weight.Preferably, the "repellent and / or anti-feeding elements" are embedded in the "layer" - in particular as particles.

[0033] Another example of a seed unit (the pellet) is to add natural-based pesticides. This does not aim to kill pests, but rather to repel them using substances such as essential oils, which prevent them from damaging the seeds.

[0034] The term "tonic agents or tonic elements" within the meaning of the invention is defined as agents intended to make the plant fit and also keep it healthy. For example, they can increase frost resistance, optimize nutrient utilization, and improve plant growth. A plant tonic neither supplies the plant with nutrients nor combats weeds or parasites. However, once the plant is diseased, plant tonics cannot combat the disease. Once the disease has been overcome, however, plant tonics can help accelerate plant growth and regeneration. A preferred tonic or tonic element is a tonic agent derived from catchfly and lupine. The tonics or tonic elements (if present) are preferably present in the "layer" at a concentration of 0.001–1% by weight.Preferably, the "strengthening agents or strengthening elements" are embedded in the "layer" - in particular as particles.

[0035] A further subject of the present disclosure is a process for producing a seed unit according to the invention as discussed above, comprising the following steps: STEP I: Providing the coal in ground form as a component of the "layer" mixture with a polymeric superabsorbent; optionally mixing with nutrients or nutrient elements and / or optionally mixing with strengthening agents or strengthening elements, wherein the optional mixing takes place before transfer to a mixing unit (A) or in the mixing unit (A), grinding in a grinding apparatus (B); optional STEP II:optionally adding at least one type of repellent and / or anti-feeding element, preferably several different types of repellent and / or anti-feeding elements previously mixed in a mixing unit, to the ground mixture from step I in a mixing unit (D); STEP III: Addition of the seed (2) and the gluten of biological origin (3), which may be mixed prior to addition, to the mixture from stage II in a pelleting plant (E), the seed (2) forming the core around which the pelleting or granulation takes place.

[0036] The term "mixing unit" in the sense of the disclosure document is defined as apparatus (see (A), (C), (D) in Fig. 3)), in which components of the seed unit according to the invention, in particular components of the "layer", such as the (matrix-forming) carbon, the polymeric superabsorbent (possibly the gluten of biological origin) and optionally other auxiliary substances, are mixed together before grinding or pelleting / pilling.

[0037] The term "grinding apparatus" within the meaning of the published specification is defined as an apparatus in which components of the seed unit according to the invention, in particular components of the "layer", such as the (matrix-forming) carbon, the polymeric superabsorbent (possibly the gluten of biological origin) and optionally other auxiliary substances, are ground prior to any pelleting or pilling.

[0038] The term "pelletizing system" as used in this publication is defined as an apparatus in which the seed unit according to the invention is formed into a pellet or pill. The seed forms the core, around which – via the pelletizing / pelletizing process – a layer, thus forming the pellet / pill, is formed from the components of the "layer," such as the (matrix-forming) carbon, the polymeric superabsorbent, and optionally other excipients, with the aid of the adhesive of biological origin.

[0039] The term "pelleted" or "pelleted" as used in this disclosure is defined as a process step in which the seed unit according to the invention is formed into a pellet or pill in an apparatus (a pelletizing or pelletizing plant). The seed forms the core, around which – via the pelletizing / pelleting process – a layer, thus forming the pellet / pill, is formed from the components of the "layer," such as the (matrix-forming) carbon, the polymeric superabsorbent, and optionally other excipients, with the aid of the adhesive of biological origin.

[0040] A further subject of the present disclosure is a seed unit coated with a "layer" of biochar, which can be produced by a process comprising the following steps STEP I:Providing the biochar in ground form as a component of the layer (3), mixing with a polymeric superabsorbent (5) containing ≥50 wt.% polyacrylate; optionally mixing with nutrients or nutrient elements (6) and / or optionally mixing with strengthening agents or strengthening agent elements (8), wherein the optional mixing takes place before transfer to a mixing unit (A) or in the mixing unit (A), grinding in a grinding apparatus (B); optional STEP II: Optionally adding at least one type of repellent and / or anti-feeding element (7), preferably several different types of repellent and / or anti-feeding elements (7) previously mixed in a mixing unit (C), to the ground mixture from stage I in a mixing unit (D); STEP III:Addition of the seed (2) and the gluten of biological origin (4), which may be mixed before addition, to the mixture from stage II in a pilling / pelleting plant (E), the seed (2) forming the core around which pilling or pelleting takes place. DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIONS

[0041] Fig. 1 ) shows schematically a seed unit (1) according to the invention in the form of a pellet with a seed (2), a layer (3) (made of carbon with an adhesive of biological origin (4)), a polymeric superabsorbent (5), a shell (9), nutrients (6), repellents and anti-feeding elements (7) and strengthening agents (8). Fig. 2 ) shows in A a seed of valerian seeds consisting of several seeds (2) and in C the seed unit (1) according to the invention obtained therefrom by the process according to the invention. The figure also shows in Ba seed of raspberry seeds consisting of several seeds (2) and in D the seed unit (1) according to the invention obtained therefrom by the process according to the invention. Fig. 3 ) shows schematically a method for producing a seed unit (1) according to the invention with the following steps: STEP I: Preparing the coal in ground form as a component of the layer (3) already mixed with the polymeric superabsorbent (5); mixing with nutrients (6) and mixing with strengthening agents (8) in a mixing unit (A); grinding in a grinding apparatus (B); STEP II: Mixing (in this case three types) of repellents and anti-feeding elements (7) in a mixing unit (C) and adding them to the ground mixture from stage I in a mixing unit (D); STEP III:Addition of the seed (2) and the gluten of biological origin (4) to the mixture from stage II in a pelleting plant (E), the seed (2) forming the core around which the pelleting or granulation takes place, so that the seed unit (1) is formed.

[0042] The focus is on Fig. 3 the following letters optionally for the following information: (a) Biochar 70% m / m + potassium polyacrylate 19.998% m / m (b) Organic fertilizer 10% m / m (c) Plant strengthening agent 0.002% m / m (d) Neem oil 15% m / m (e) Cayenne pepper extract 4% m / m (f) Thyme essential oil 1% m / m (g) Seeds (h) Pilling aid (binder) (j) Mixing unit (k) Grinding (m) Pilling plant. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] As stated above, the main subject of the present invention is a seed unit (1) (in particular in the form of a pellet) comprising at least (in particular exactly) one seed (2), a layer (3), a polymeric superabsorbent (5) and an adhesive of biological origin (4), and optionally a shell (9) and further excipients, wherein the layer (3) at least partially (in particular completely) encloses the seed (2), wherein the layer (3) comprises the adhesive of biological origin (4) and the polymeric superabsorbent (5); and the layer (3) comprises coal (in particular activated coal, biochar or biochar), wherein the layer (3) consists of at least 50 wt.% coal (in particular activated coal, biochar or biochar).

[0044] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention, the coal in the layer (3) consists of at least 75 wt.%, at least 90 wt.%, at least 95 wt.%, or at least 99 wt.% of activated coal, biochar and / or biochar, preferably of activated coal or biochar, wherein the coal is preferably ground, and / or wherein the grain size of the coal is ≤ 150 µm, ≤ 200 µm, ≤ 250 µm or ≤ 300 µm, in particular ≤ 200 µm.In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention, the coal in the layer (3) consists of at least 50 wt.%, at least 75 wt.%, at least 90 wt.%, at least 95 wt.%, or at least 99 wt.% of activated coal, biochar and / or Biochar, preferably from activated carbon orfrom biochar, wherein the coal is preferably ground, and / or wherein the grain size of the coal is ≤ 150 µm, ≤ 200 µm, ≤ 250 µm or ≤ 300 µm, in particular ≤ 200 µm, or 30 µm - 200 µm, 40 µm - 200 µm, 30 µm - 180 µm or 50 µm - 150 µm, or 80 µm - 120 µm.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention, the coal in the layer (3) consists of at least 60 wt.%, at least 70 wt.%, at least 95 wt.%, or at least 99 wt.% biochar, wherein the biochar is preferably ground, and / or wherein the grain size of the biochar is ≤ 200 µm, 30 µm - 200 µm, 40 µm - 200 µm, 30 µm - 180 µm, or 50 µm - 150 µm, or 80 µm - 120 µm.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention, the gluten of biological origin (4) is a protein-containing gluten, preferably a gluten-based gluten, a fibrin-based gluten, or a gluten-based gluten on the amino acid DPPA, or a fish glue, particularly preferably a fish glue from cold-water fish, wherein the gluten of biological origin may contain additives such as gum arabic or protein hydrolysate.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention the layer (3) completely encloses the seed (2); and / or the superabsorbent (5) and any further auxiliary substances are embedded in the layer (3) - in particular as particles - and / or the adhesive of biological origin (4) is distributed approximately evenly or homogeneously in the layer (3) and in particular in the coal, and / or the shell (9) completely encloses the layer (3).

[0048] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention, the optionally further adjuvants are selected from: Nutrients or nutrient elements (6); repellent and / or antifeedant elements (7); and / or tonics or tonic elements (8).

[0049] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention the polymeric superabsorbent (5) serves as a water storage and disintegrant element, and / or the polymeric superabsorbent (5) is solid or crystalline or solid and crystalline, and / or the polymeric superabsorbent (5) is ground and / or the polymeric superabsorbent (5) has a grain size of 50 µm - 400 µm, of 100 µm - 350 µm or of 150 µm - 300 µm or of 175 µm - 225 µm.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention, the polymeric superabsorbent (5) is a polyacrylamide or a cross-linked arylamide / acrylic acid, a polyacrylate, an acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer (optionally cross-linked) or mixtures thereof, preferably sodium polyacrylate or potassium polyacrylate or acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer potassium or sodium salt or a cross-linked acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer potassium or sodium salt, a cross-linked arylamide / acrylic acid in the form of a potassium or sodium salt or mixtures thereof, in particular preferably potassium polyacrylate or acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer potassium salt or a cross-linked acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer potassium salt or a cross-linked arylamide / acrylic acid in the form of a potassium salt (for example Stockosorb ®< ) or mixtures thereof.Alternatively, the "polymeric superabsorbent" is a biological polymeric superabsorbent selected from a cellulose- or lignin-based hydrogel or a natural rubber derivative, preferably selected from a cellulose- or lignin-based hydrogel. Particularly preferred examples are Polyter GT or Agrobiogel. Overall, the polymeric superabsorbent (5) is characterized by the fact that it... serves as a water storage and disintegrating element, and / or is solid or crystalline or solid and crystalline, and / or is ground and / or has a grain size of 50 µm- 400 µm or 100 µm - 350 µm or 150 µm - 300 µm or 175 µm - 225 µm.

[0051] The polymeric superabsorbent (5) can also be characterized by having a grain size of 50 µm - 200 µm, or of 50 µm - 150 µm or of 80 µm - 120 µm.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention, the polymeric superabsorbent (5) is a polyacrylamide, a cross-linked arylamide / acrylic acid, a polyacrylate or an acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer, in particular a sodium polyacrylate or potassium polyacrylate or acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer potassium or sodium salt or a cross-linked acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer potassium or sodium salt, a cross-linked arylamide / acrylic acid in the form of a potassium or sodium salt or mixtures thereof, in particular preferably potassium polyacrylate or acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer potassium salt or a cross-linked acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer potassium salt or a cross-linked arylamide / acrylic acid in the form of a potassium salt or mixtures thereof, wherein the polymeric superabsorbent (5) serves as a water storage and disintegrating element, and / or is solid or crystalline or solid and crystalline, and / or is ground and / or has a grain size of 50 µm - 400 µm, or of 100 µm - 350 µm or of 150 µm - 300 µm or of 175 µm - 225 µm, or has a grain size of 50 µm - 200 µm, or of 50 µm - 150 µm or of 80 µm - 120 µm.

[0053] Preferably, in one of these two directly preceding preferred embodiments, the polymeric superabsorbent is granular or granular or in the form of a grain, or is solid and crystalline, and the polymeric superabsorbent in this form accordingly has the grain size specified above.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention, a further adjuvant is nutrients or nutrient elements (6) which are comprised by the seed unit (1) and are preferably embedded in the layer (3), wherein the nutrients or nutrient elements (6) are preferably macro- and micronutrients and / or nutrients or nutrient elements (6) on an organic basis, wherein these are preferably protein-based fertilizers, preferably vinasse / stillage or protein hydrolysates.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention, a further auxiliary substance is repellent and / or feeding inhibitor elements (7) which are comprised by the seed unit (1) and are preferably embedded in the layer (3), wherein the repellent and / or feeding inhibitor elements (7) are preferably based on plant and / or flavor extracts, optionally on essential plant and / or flavor extracts, in particular extracts from cayenne pepper, neem tree, ginger, oregano, geraniums, cistus herb or thyme.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention, a further adjuvant is strengthening agent or strengthening agent elements (8) which are comprised by the seed unit (1) and are preferably embedded in the layer (3), wherein the strengthening agent elements (8) preferably comprise organic fertilizers, preferably a strengthening agent obtained from catchfly and lupin.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention, the seed unit (1) also comprises a shell (9), wherein the shell (9) preferably completely encloses the layer (3), wherein the shell (9) preferably consists of gelatin, cellulose, carrageenan, starch or glue.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention, the seed (2) is a small-grained seed (2), in particular a seed (2) of a size < 3.5 mm, preferably the seed (2) is selected from seeds for carrots, lettuces, tomatoes, sugar beets, fodder beets, rapeseed, camelina, flax, brassicas, beetroot, radish, parsnip, celery, parsley, chives, or medicinal herbs such as valerian, thyme, oregano, ribwort plantain, echinacea.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention the layer (3) consists of 5 - 30 wt.% or 10 - 20 wt.% of the polymeric superabsorbent (5); preferably the layer (3) consists of 1 - 15 wt.% of the adhesive of biological origin (4); the layer (3) consists of 5 - 30 (preferably 10 - 20) wt.% of the polymeric superabsorbent (5), and the layer (3) consists of 55 - 94 wt.% of carbon; in particular the layer (3) consists of 1 - 15 wt.% of the adhesive of biological origin (4); the layer (3) consists of 5 - 30 (preferably 10 - 20) wt.% of the polymeric superabsorbent (5), and / or the layer (3) consists of 1 - 20 (preferably 5 - 15) wt.% of nutrients or nutrient elements (6) with the optional addition thereof, the layer (3) consists of 1 - 10 wt.% of repellent and / or anti-feeding elements (7) with the optional addition thereof, the layer (3) consists of 0.001 - 1 wt.% of strengthening agents or strengthening elements (8), the remainder of the layer (3) consists of carbon.. pilled or pelletized around.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention, the ratio of the diameter of the seed unit (1) to the diameter of the materials of the layer (3), in particular the coal and the polymeric superabsorbent (5), is from 650:1 to 10:1, or from 500:1 to 20:1, or from 400:1 to 30:1, from 300:1 to 40:1, or from 200:1 to 50:1. In particular, the diameter of the materials of the layer (3), in particular the coal and the polymeric superabsorbent (5), are to be regarded as synonymous with their grain size.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention, the layer (3) contains no guar and no guar derivative.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention the seed unit (1) takes the form of a pellet or a pill, wherein preferably the layer (3) completely surrounds the seed (2) and / or the layer (3) and the seed (2), optionally with the shell (9) surrounding the layer (3), are / form the pellet / pill; the seed (2) has been subjected to a pelleting process or a pilling process with the mass from which the layer (3) consists, so that preferably the layer (3) and the seed (2), optionally with the shell (9) surrounding the layer (3), form the pellet or pill.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention, the seed unit (1) contains exactly one seed.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment of the seed unit (1) according to the invention, the seed unit (1) consists of at least (in particular exactly) one seed (2), one layer (3), one polymeric superabsorbent (5) and one adhesive of biological origin (4), and optionally a shell (9) and further auxiliary substances ((6), (7) and (8)).

[0065] As stated above, a further subject of the present disclosure is a method for producing a seed unit (1) according to the invention, comprising the following steps: STEP I:Providing the coal in ground form as a component of the layer (3) Mixing with a polymeric superabsorbent (5); optionally mixing with nutrients or nutrient elements (6) and / or optionally mixing with strengthening agents or strengthening elements (8), wherein the optional mixing takes place before transfer to a mixing unit (A) or in the mixing unit (A), grinding in a grinding apparatus (B); optional STEP II: optionally adding at least one type of repellent and / or feeding inhibitor elements (7), preferably several different types of repellent and / or feeding inhibitor elements (7) previously mixed in a mixing unit (C), to the ground mixture from stage I in a mixing unit (D); STEP III:Addition of the seed (2) and the gluten of biological origin (3), these being optionally mixed before addition, to the mixture from stage II in a pelleting plant (E), the seed (2) forming the core around which the pelleting or pelleting takes place.

[0066] As stated above, a further subject matter of the present disclosure is a seed unit (1) coated with a layer of biochar, which can be produced by a method comprising the following steps STEP I:Providing the biochar in ground form as a component of the layer (3), mixing with a polymeric superabsorbent (5) containing ≥50 wt.% polyacrylate; optionally mixing with nutrients or nutrient elements (6) and / or optionally mixing with strengthening agents or strengthening agent elements (8), wherein the optional mixing takes place before transfer to a mixing unit (A) or in the mixing unit (A), grinding in a grinding apparatus (B); optional STEP II: Optionally adding at least one type of repellent and / or anti-feeding element (7), preferably several different types of repellent and / or anti-feeding elements (7) previously mixed in a mixing unit (C), to the ground mixture from stage I in a mixing unit (D); STEP III:Addition of the seed (2) and the gluten of biological origin (3), these being optionally mixed before addition, to the mixture from stage II in a pelleting plant (E), the seed (2) forming the core around which the pelleting or pelleting takes place. EXAMPLES

[0067] Fig. 2 ) shows the results of pelleting different seeds, namely valerian seeds ( A ) and raspberry seeds ( B ), according to the procedure (see also Fig. 3 ), so that seed units according to the invention were produced in the form of pellets ( C ) or ( D ). LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS FOR FIGURE Fig. 3)

[0068] (1)Seed unit (2)Seed (3)Layer (charcoal) (4)Adhesive of biological origin (5)Polymeric superabsorbent (6)Nutrient (7)Repellent and antifeedant element (8)Strengthener (A)Mixing unit (B)Grinding apparatus (C)Mixing unit (D)Mixing unit (E)Pilling system

[0069] Optionally, the following letters represent the following information: (a) Biochar 70% m / m + potassium polyacrylate 19.998% m / m (b) Organic fertilizer 10% m / m (c) Plant strengthening agent 0.002% m / m (d) Neem oil 15% m / m (e) Cayenne pepper extract 4% m / m (f) Thyme essential oil 1% m / m (g) Seeds (h) Pilling aid (binder) (j) Mixing unit (k) Grinding (m) Pilling plant.

Claims

1. Seed unit (1) in the form of a pellet comprising at least one seed (2) and a layer (3) comprising coal, a polymeric superabsorbent (5) and an adhesive of biological origin (4), the layer (3) at least partially enclosing the seed (2), characterized in that the polymeric superabsorbent (5) is selected from a. a polyacrylamide, a crosslinked arylamide / acrylic acid, a polyacrylate or an acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer, or b. a biological polymeric superabsorbent selected from a cellulose- or lignin-based hydrogel or a natural rubber derivative; - the layer (3) consists of at least 50% by weight of coal, - the polymeric superabsorbent (5) has a grain size of 50 µm - 400 µm; and - the polymeric superabsorbent (5) is embedded in the layer (3) as a particle.

2. Seed unit (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that - the coal is selected from activated carbon, biologigal coal or biochar.

3. Seed unit (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that - the polymeric superabsorbent (5) is a polyacrylamide, a crosslinked arylamide / acrylic acid, a polyacrylate or an acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer.

4. Seed unit (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the layer (3) - consists of at least 60% by weight, at least 70% by weight, at least 95% by weight, or at least 99% by weight of biochar, the biochar preferably being ground, and / or wherein the grain size of the biochar is ≤ 200 µm, 30 µm - 200 µm, or 40 µm - 200 µm, or 30 µm - 180 µm, or 50 µm - 150 µm, or 80 µm - 120 µm.

5. Seed unit (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the adhesive of biological origin (4) is a protein-containing adhesive, preferably a glutin-based adhesive, a fibrin-based adhesive, or an adhesive based on the amino acid DPPA, or fish glue, particularly preferably fish glue from cold water fish, wherein the glue of biological origin can contain additives such as gum arabic or protein hydrolyzate.

6. Seed unit (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, <b>characterized in that the seed unit comprises further auxiliary materials, wherein these further auxiliary substances are selected from: - nutrients or nutrient elements (6); - repellent- and / or anti-feeding-elements; and / or - strengthening agents or strengthening elements (8).

7. Seed unit (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, a) characterized in that the polymeric superabsorbent (5) is granular and is a polyacrylamide, a crosslinked arylamide / acrylic acid, a polyacrylate or an acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer; in particular is a sodium polyacrylate or potassium polyacrylate or acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer potassium or sodium salt or a cross-linked acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer potassium or sodium salt, a cross-linked arylamide / acrylic acid in the form of a potassium or sodium salt or mixtures thereof; particularly preferably is potassium polyacrylate or acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer potassium salt or a cross-linked acrylamide / acrylic acid copolymer potassium salt or a crosslinked arylamide / acrylic acid in the form of a potassium salt or mixtures thereof, the polymeric superabsorbent (5) - serves as a water storage and disintegrating element, and / or - is solid or crystalline or solid and crystalline, and / or - is ground and / or - has a grain size of 100 µm - 350 µm, or 150 µm - 300 µm, or 175 µm - 225 µm, or a grain size of 50 µm - 200 µm, or of 50 µm - 150 µm or from 80 µm - 120 µm; or b) characterized in that the polymeric superabsorbent (5) is a biological polymeric superabsorbent, selected from a cellulose or lignin-based hydrogel or a natural rubber derivative, preferably selected from a cellulose or lignin-based hydrogel, in particular selected from Polyter GT or Agrobiogel.

8. Seed unit (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that nutrients or nutrient elements (6) are included in the seed unit (1) as a further auxiliary substance and are preferably embedded in the layer (3), wherein the nutrients or nutrient elements (6) are preferably macro- and micronutrients and / or nutrients or nutrient elements (6) on an organic basis, wherein these preferably being protein-based fertilizers, preferably vinasse / stillage or protein hydrolysates.

9. Seed unit (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that as a further auxiliary agent repellent- and / or anti-feeding-elements (7) are included in the seed unit (1) and are preferably embedded in the layer (3); wherein the repellent- and / or anti-feeding-elements (7) are preferably based on plant and / or aromatic extracts, optionally based on ethereal plant and / or aromatic extracts, in particular including extracts of cayenne pepper, neem tree ginger, oregano, geraniums, cistus or thyme.

10. Seed unit (1) according to 6, characterized in that strengthening agent or strengthening elements (8) are included in the seed unit (1) as a further auxiliary substance and are preferably embedded in the layer (3), whereby the strengthening elements (8) preferably comprise organic fertilizers, preferably a strengthening agent obtained from pitch clove and lupine; and / or characterized in that the seed (2) is a small-grain seed (2), in particular a seed (2) with a size of <3.5 mm, preferably the seed (2) is selected from seeds for carrots, salads, tomatoes, sugar beet, fodder beet, rapeseed, camelina, flax, cabbage, beetroot, radish, parsnip, celery, parsley, chives, or medicinal herbs such as valerian, thyme, oregano, ribwort plantain, coneflower.

11. Seed unit (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that - the layer (3) consists of 5 - 30% by weight or 10 - 20% by weight of the polymeric superabsorbent (5); preferably - the layer (3) consists of 1-15% by weight of the adhesive of biological origin; - the layer (3) consists of 5 - 30% by weight of the polymeric superabsorbent (5), and - the layer (3) consists of 55 - 94% by weight of coal; in particular - the layer (3) consists of 1-15% by weight of the adhesive of biological origin; - the layer (3) consists of 5 - 30% by weight of the polymeric superabsorbent (5), and / or - the layer (3) consists of 1-20% by weight of nutrients or nutrient elements (6) when optionally added, - the layer (3) consists of 1 - 10% by weight of repellent and / or anti-feeding elements (7) when optionally added, - the layer (3) consists of 0.001 - 1% by weight of strengthening agents or strengthening elements (8) when optionally added, the rest of the layer (3) consists of coal.

12. Seed unit (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the ratio of the diameter of the seed unit (1) to the diameter of the materials of the layer (3), in particular the coal and the polymeric superabsorbent (5), is from 650:1 to 10:1, or from 500:1 to 20:1, or from 400:1 to 30:1, from 300:1 to 40:1, or from 200:1 to 50:1.