A composition suitable for a fertilizer and method of making the same

Abstract

The invention is directed to a composition suitable for a fertilizer, a method of making the composition, and use of the composition. The disclosed composition comprises a core comprising one or more urea-based compounds and a stabilized urea comprising urea and one or more inhibitors.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] A COMPOSITION SUITABLE FOR A FERTILIZER AND METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to and the benefit of Indian Provisional Patent Application No.

[0003] 202441104350, filed December 30, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated into the present application by reference in its entirety.

[0004] FIELD OF INVENTION

[0005] The present invention generally relates to a composition suitable for a fertilizer and a method for making the same. The composition comprises a core comprising one or more urea-based compounds and a stabilized urea comprising urea and urease and / or nitrification inhibitors.

[0006] BACKGROUND

[0007] Most commercially available fertilizers include mainly two types of fertilizers i.e., water soluble fertilizers and controlled / slow-release fertilizers. Water soluble conventional fertilizers typically result in a large amount of nutrients being lost by leaching and volatilization. These nutrients required by the plant can also be lost by chemical processes such as exchange, fixation, and precipitation. To enhance crop yield and satisfy the growing needs of an increasing population, more fertilizers are being used in agriculture. However, continuous use of fertilizer can lead to nutrient imbalance and loss of soil fertility. In addition, excessive use of urea fertilizer, due to its rapid hydrolysis and nitrification by soil bacteria, can cause environmental problems such as greenhouse emissions and groundwater contamination.

[0008] Fertilizer in the form of pellets is commonly used in agriculture to deliver nutrients. Often, fertilizer pellets are coated to prevent saturation or premature elution of the nutrients into the area to be treated. Thus, there is an increased interest in developing slow-release fertilizers that release nutrients to plants over time. Slow-release fertilizers minimize the frequency of providing the fertilizers to the plants, as well as reduce or minimize leachate. However, slow-release fertilizers are generally more costly than water soluble fertilizers. Many attempts have been made in the past to provide a fertilizer product having a coating that facilitates the slow release of the fertilizer, rendering the fertilizer application effective over a long period of time. Many such processes have undesirable effects, such as sticky buildup in the coating equipmentand release of chemicals from the slow-release coatings into the surrounding environment. Also, synthetic polymers that have been used in the past for making the slow-release fertilizers are not biodegradable, creating environmental problems which limits their use.

[0009] In addition, urease inhibitors and nitrification inhibitors in fertilizers have been employed as solutions to the problems of urea hydrolysis and nitrification, but there are certain issues in using these inhibitors. One issue is that some inhibitors are heat sensitive and heat sensitivity complicates the manufacturing process for fertilizers that include such inhibitors. For example, adding a heat-sensitive inhibitor to molten urea before granulation can cause substantial degradation of the inhibitor, as described in Soil Use & Management, 24:246 (2008). To compensate for this problem, some fertilizer manufacturers may add an excess of inhibitor to the urea melt, which increases the cost of producing the fertilizer. Another issue is that a few combinations of inhibitors can be incompatible if included in the same particle.

[0010] Thus, for the foregoing reasons, there remains a need for developing a composition suitable for fertilizer or fertilizer pellets, and other agricultural treatment pellets, that are environmentally friendly in nature, can be processed without sticky buildup and without sacrificing the efficiency of the fertilizer and the inhibitors used. Such fertilizer compositions and methods related thereto are disclosed herein.

[0011] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Accordingly, a solution to some or all of the drawbacks in existing art, resides in a disclosed composition suitable for a fertilizer that comprises:

[0013] i. a core comprising one or more urea-based compounds of formula I and / or formula II and / or formula III and / or formula IV and / or formula V;

[0014]

[0015] H / k ' ~NH. HN ' N. CH. PC

[0016] formula III

[0017] o o

[0018] ,. C.Z-C...

[0019] RaCH N ■ \NH — HNZ XN CH R7

[0020] formula IV

[0021] R9

[0022] O J -..

[0023] || NH

[0024] A A HN' -NH ' " O

[0025]

[0026] H „,

[0027] formula V

[0028] wherein each of the variables ‘m’, ‘n’, ‘o’, ‘p’ and ‘q’ are integers ranging from 0 to 5, wherein m+n+o+p+q≥1; wherein each of the substituents R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9are independently same or different, wherein each of the substituents R2and R3are independently selected from linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; wherein R1, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9are independently selected from hydrogen, linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; and

[0029] ii. a stabilized urea comprising urea and one or more inhibitors;

[0030] wherein the one or more inhibitors are selected from a urease inhibitor, a nitrification inhibitor, or a combination thereof.

[0031] In some embodiments, the invention is directed to a method for preparing a composition suitable for a fertilizer comprising the steps of:

[0032] a) providing a core comprising one or more urea-based compounds of formula I and / or formula II and / or formula III and / or formula IV and / or formula V;

[0033]

[0034] formula Iformula II

[0035] O O

[0036] / c\.--C\ H > N ■ ' ’ NH - HN / ' N......... CH — R6formula III

[0037]

[0038] O °

[0039] C C RS. — CH = N 'NH HN "’ 'N = CH R?

[0040] formula IV

[0041] R9

[0042] O.Z...

[0043] || ■ hlH

[0044] ,., J.

[0045] HN 'MH " 'N' '-O

[0046] H

[0047] formula V

[0048] wherein each of the variables ‘m’, ‘n’, ‘o’, ‘p’ and ‘q’ are integers ranging from 0 to 5, wherein m+n+o+p+q≥1; wherein each of the substituents R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9are independently same or different, wherein each of the substituents R2and R3are independently selected from linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; wherein R1, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9are independently selected from hydrogen, linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; and

[0049] b) mixing or fattening the core with a stabilized urea;

[0050] wherein the stabilized urea comprises urea and one or more inhibitors;

[0051] wherein the one or more inhibitors are selected from a urease inhibitor, a nitrification inhibitor, or a combination thereof; and

[0052] wherein fattening comprises at least partially coating the stabilized urea on the core.In some embodiments of the invention, the invention is directed to the use of the composition as disclosed in the present invention.

[0053] Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following figures, detailed description, and examples. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and the specific examples, while indicating specific embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only and are not meant to be limiting, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

[0054] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0055] The following drawings form part of the present specification and are included to further demonstrate certain aspects thereof. The invention may be better understood by reference to one or more of these drawings in combination with the detailed description of specific embodiments presented herein.

[0056] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram depicting an exemplary method of making a non-limiting embodiment of the composition suitable for a fertlizer.

[0057] FIG. 2 is a non-limiting representation of a cross-section of a fertilizer core comprising a stabilized urea as disclosed in the present invention.

[0058] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0059] The presently disclosed subject matter will now be described more fully hereinafter. However, many modifications and other aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which the presently disclosed subject matter pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions. Therefore, it is to be understood that the presently disclosed subject matter is not to be limited to the specific aspects disclosed and that modifications and other aspects are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. In other words, the subject matter described herein covers all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents. If one or more of the incorporated literature, patents, and similar materials differ from or contradict this application, including but not limited to defined terms, term usage, described techniques, or the like, this applicationcontrols. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in this field.

[0060] The following includes definitions of various terms and phrases used throughout this specification.

[0061] The term “fertilizer” is defined as a material applied to soils or to plant tissues to supply a) one or more plant nutrients essential or beneficial to the growth of plants and / or b) one or more stimulants or enhancers to increase or enhance plant growth. Non-limiting examples of fertilizers include materials having one or more of urea, ammonium nitrate, calcium ammonium nitrate, urea calcium sulfate adduct, one or more superphosphates, binary NP fertilizers, binary NK fertilizers, binary PK fertilizers, NPK fertilizers, molybdenum, zinc, copper, boron, cobalt, manganese, nickel, chloride, and / or iron. In some embodiments, fertilizers include agents that enhance plant growth and / or enhance the ability for a plant to receive the benefit of a fertilizer, such as, but not limited to organic matter, bio stimulants, urease inhibitors, and nitrification inhibitors.

[0062] The term “micronutrient” is defined as a chemical element or substance used in trace amounts for the normal growth and development of a plant. Non-limiting examples of micronutrients include B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Zn, Se, and Si or compounds thereof.

[0063] The term “macronutrient” is defined as a chemical element or substance used in relatively large to moderate amounts for plant growth and are less likely to limit crop growth. Non-limiting examples of macro nutrients include N, P, K, Ca, Mg, and S.

[0064] The term “granule” can include a solid material. A granule can have a variety of different shapes, non-limiting examples of which include a sphere, a puck, an oval, a rod, an oblong, or a random shape.

[0065] The terms “%” and “wt.%” refer to a percentage or a weight percentage of a component, respectively, based on the total percentage or the total weight of material that includes the component. In a non-limiting example, 10 g of a solution out of 100 g of the solution is 10 wt.% of the solution.

[0066] The term “substantially” and its variations are defined to include ranges within 10%, within 5%, within 1%, or within 0.5%.The terms “inhibiting” or “reducing” or “preventing” or any variation of these terms, when used in the claims and / or the specification, include any measurable decrease or complete inhibition to achieve a desired result.

[0067] The term “effective,” as that term is used in the specification and / or claims, means adequate to accomplish a desired, expected, or intended result.

[0068] Any numerical range used throughout this disclosure shall include all values and ranges there between unless specified otherwise. For example, a boiling point range of 50°C to 100°C includes all temperatures and ranges between 50°C and 100°C including the temperature of 50°C and 100°C.

[0069] The use of the words “a” or “an” when used in conjunction with any of the terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” or “having” in the claims, or the specification, may mean “one,” but it is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more,” “at least one,” and “one or more than one.”

[0070] The words “comprising” (and any form of comprising, such as “comprise” and “comprises”), “having” (and any form of having, such as “have” and “has”), “including” (and any form of including, such as “includes” and “include”), or “containing” (and any form of containing, such as “contains” and “contain”) are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

[0071] The invention addresses the need of developing the compositions suitable for a fertilizer comprising urea-based compounds, which is capable of releasing nitrogen at a slow rate and suitable for being processed without sticky buildup and without sacrificing the efficiency of the inhibitors as well as the overall fertilizer composition. Preferably the urea-based compounds are methylene-urea based compounds.

[0072] Certain embodiments of the present invention are characterized through the following aspects.

[0073] In some embodiments of the invention, the invention relates to a composition suitable for a fertilizer comprising:

[0074] i. a core comprising one or more urea-based compounds of formula I and / or formula II and / or formula III and / or formula IV and / or formula V;

[0075] wherein each of the variables ‘m’, ‘n’, ‘o’, ‘p’ and ‘q’ are integers ranging from 0 to 5, wherein m+n+o+p+q≥1; wherein each of the substituents R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9areindependently same or different, wherein each of the substituents R2and R3are independently selected from linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; wherein R1, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9are independently selected from hydrogen, linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; and

[0076] ii. a stabilized urea comprising one or more inhibitors;

[0077] wherein the one or more inhibitors are selected from a urease inhibitor, a nitrification inhibitor, or a combination thereof.

[0078] In some embodiments of the invention, the invention relates to a composition suitable for a fertilizer comprises:

[0079] i. a core comprising one or more urea-based compounds of formula I; wherein R1is selected from hydrogen, linear or branched alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; and

[0080] ii. a stabilized urea comprising one or more inhibitors;

[0081] wherein the one or more inhibitors are selected from a urease inhibitor, a nitrification inhibitor, or a combination thereof.

[0082] In some preferred embodiments, the composition suitable for a fertilizer comprises:

[0083] i. a core comprising one or more urea-based compounds of formula II;

[0084] wherein each of the variables ‘m’, ‘n’, ‘o’, ‘p’ and ‘q’ are integers ranging from 0 to 5, wherein m+n+o+p+q≥1; wherein each of the substituents R2, R3, R4, R5are independently same or different, wherein each of the substituents R2and R3are independently selected from linear or branched alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; wherein each of the substituents R4and R5are independently selected from hydrogen, linear or branched alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; and

[0085] ii. a stabilized urea comprising one or more inhibitors;wherein the one or more inhibitors are selected from a urease inhibitor, a nitrification inhibitor, or a combination thereof.

[0086] In some preferred embodiments, the composition suitable for a fertilizer comprises:

[0087] i. a core comprising one or more urea-based compounds of formula III; wherein R6is selected from hydrogen, linear or branched alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; and

[0088] ii. a stabilized urea comprising one or more inhibitors;

[0089] wherein the one or more inhibitors are selected from a urease inhibitor, a nitrification inhibitor, or a combination thereof.

[0090] In some preferred embodiments, the composition suitable for a fertilizer comprises:

[0091] i. a core comprising one or more urea-based compounds of formula IV; wherein each of the substituents R7, R8are independently same or different, wherein each of the substituents R7, R8are independently selected from hydrogen, linear or branched alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; and

[0092] ii. a stabilized urea comprising one or more inhibitors;

[0093] wherein the one or more inhibitors are selected from a urease inhibitor, a nitrification inhibitor, or a combination thereof.

[0094] In some preferred embodiments, the composition suitable for a fertilizer comprises:

[0095] i. a core comprising one or more urea-based compounds of formula V; wherein R9is selected from hydrogen, linear or branched alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; and

[0096] ii. a stabilized urea comprising one or more inhibitors;

[0097] wherein the one or more inhibitors are selected from a urease inhibitor, a nitrification inhibitor, or a combination thereof.

[0098] Preferably in some embodiments of the invention, the core comprises urea-based compounds of formula I

[0099]

[0100] wherein R1is selected from hydrogen, linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms. Preferably R1is Hydrogen, methyl or ethyl. More preferably R1is a hydrogen.

[0101] In some preferred embodiments of the invention, the core comprises one or more of urea-based compounds of formula II

[0102] r / ■ >

[0103] o0"4 r ° "

[0104] / C., / Cv. / C.

[0105] R'> HN ’ 'NH ■ - - HN 'ZNH 4-. R3-4 HN / ' NH. R-

[0106]

[0107] v Jq m -■"n O p formula II

[0108] wherein each of the variables ‘m’, ‘n’, ‘o’, ‘p’ and ‘q’ are integers ranging from 0 to 5, wherein m+n+o+p+q≥1; wherein each of the substituents R2, R3, R4, R5are independently same or different, wherein each of the substituents R2and R3are independently selected from linear or branched alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; wherein each of the substituents R4and R5are independently selected from hydrogen, linear or branched alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms.

[0109] Preferably in some embodiments, each of the variables ‘m’, ‘n’, ‘o’, ‘p’ and ‘q’ ranges from 0 to 5, wherein m+n+o+p+q≥1; wherein each of the integers ‘m’, ‘n’, ‘o’, ‘p’ and ‘q’ independently ranges from 0 to 5, preferably 0 to 4, preferably 0 to 3 or preferably 0 to 2, wherein each of the substituents R4and R5is independently selected from hydrogen, linear or branched or substituted or unsubstituted alkylene groups having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 5 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 4 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 3 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 2 carbon atoms; preferably R4and R5are independently selected from hydrogen, methyl or ethyl, preferably R4and R5is a hydrogen and wherein R2and R3are independently selected from linear or branched or substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1to 6 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 5 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 4 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 3 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 2 carbon atoms.

[0110] In some preferred embodiments of the invention, the core comprises one or more of urea-based compounds of formula III

[0111] O O

[0112] / C.

[0113] H

[0114]

[0115] 2N / -NH. HNZ=. R6

[0116] formula III

[0117] wherein R6is selected from hydrogen, linear or branched or substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 5 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 4 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 3 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 2 carbon atoms. In some preferred embodiments, R6is a methyl or ethyl. Preferably R6is a methyl.

[0118] In some preferred embodiments of the invention, the core comprises one or more of urea-based compounds of formula IV

[0119] O O

[0120] XC\ / Cx

[0121] R

[0122]

[0123] 8— CH= NZ'NH — HNX\N = CH. R7

[0124] formula IV

[0125] wherein each of the substituents R7, R8are independently same or different, wherein each of the substituents R7, R8are independently selected from hydrogen, linear or branched or substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 5 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 4 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 3 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 2 carbon atoms. In some preferred embodiments, R7and R8is a methyl or ethyl.

[0126] In some preferred embodiments, the one or more urea-based compounds are selected from methylene urea, dimethylene diurea, dimethylene triurea, trimethylene tetraurea, isobutylene diurea, methylene urea-isobutylene diurea, Crotonylidene diurea, ethyl idenediurea or a combination thereof. Preferably in some embodiments, one or more urea-based compounds are methylene urea, dimethylene urea, or a combination thereof. Preferably the urea-based compound is methylene urea.In some preferred embodiments, the one or more urea-based compounds are present in an amount of 1 wt.% to 20 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 10 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 5 wt.% of the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the core can have a substantially spherical shape with an average diameter 0.1 mm to 3 mm, preferably 0.2 mm to 2.5 mm, preferably 0.4 mm to 2 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 2 mm, preferably 0.7 mm to 1.8 mm, preferably 0.7 mm to 1.8 mm, preferably 1 mm to 1.8 mm, and / or preferably 1 mm to 2 mm.

[0127] In some preferred embodiments, the disclosed composition suitable for a fertilizer comprises a stabilized urea wherein the stabilized urea can comprise one or more inhibitors. The one or more inhibitors can be a urease inhibitor or a nitrification inhibitor, or a combination thereof. In some preferred embodiments, stabilized urea can comprise a urease inhibitor and a nitrification inhibitor. In some preferred embodiments, the one or more inhibitors can be a urease inhibitor. Suitable urease inhibitors include, but are not limited to N-nitrophenyl phosphoric triamide (NPT), N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (NBTPT), N-(n-propyl)thiophosphoric triamide (NPTPT), phenyl phosphorodiamidate (PPDA), pyro glutamic acid (PGA), or a combination thereof. Preferably the urease inhibitor comprises 2-nitrophenyl phosphoric triamide (2-NPT). Preferably the urease inhibitor comprises NPT, PGA, NBPT, or a combination thereof, preferably the urease inhibitor comprises NPT and PGA, preferably the urease inhibitor comprises 2-NPT and PGA, preferably the urease inhibitor comprises NBPT and PGA. In some preferred embodiments the urease inhibitor is a mixture of NPT and PGA or a mixture of NBPT and PGA, or a mixture of NPT and PGA and NBPT. In some preferred embodiments the urease inhibitor is a mixture of 2-NPT and PGA or a mixture of NBPT and PGA, or a mixture of 2-NPT and PGA and NBPT.

[0128] In some embodiments of the invention, the one or more inhibitors can be a nitrification inhibitor. Suitable nitrification inhibitors can include, but are not limited to, dicyandiamide (DCD), 3,4-dimethylpyrazole phosphate (DMPP), thio-urea (TU), 2-chloro-6-( trichloromethyl) -pyridine (Nitrapyrin), 5-ethoxy-3-trichloromethyl- 1,2,4-thiadiazol (Terrazole), 2-amino-4-chloro-6-methyl-pyrimidine (AM), 2-mercapto-benzothiazole (MBT), 2-sulfanilamid-thiazole (ST), or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the nitrification inhibitor can be selected form the group consisting of DMPP, DCD, TU, Nitrapyrin, Terrazole, AM, MBT and ST, or a combination thereof. Preferably the nitrification inhibitor is a DCD, preferably DMPP, preferably PPDA preferably a combination of DCD, DMPP or PPDA.In some embodiments, where the stabilized urea comprises at least a urease inhibitor and at least a nitrification inhibitor. The urease inhibitor can include but not limited to, N-nitrophenyl phosphoric triamide (NPT), 2-nitrophenyl phosphoric triamide (2-NPT), N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (NBTPT), N-(n-propyl)thiophosphoric triamide (NPTPT), phenyl phosphorodiamidate (PPDA), pyro glutamic acid (PGA), or a combination thereof and the nitrification inhibitor can include but not limited to, dicyandiamide (DCD), 3,4-dimethylpyrazole phosphate (DMPP), thio-urea (TU), 2-chloro-6-(trichloromethyl)-pyridine (Nitrapyrin), 5-ethoxy-3-trichloromethyl-l,2,4-thiadiazol (Terrazole), 2-amino-4-chloro-6-methyl-pyrimidine (AM), 2-mercapto-benzothiazole (MBT), 2- sulf anilamid- thiazole (ST), or a combination thereof.

[0129] In some preferred embodiments, the one or more inhibitors is / are a mixture of NPT, PGA and DCD. In some preferred embodiments, the one or more inhibitors is / are a mixture of 2-NPT, PGA and DCD. In another preferred embodiment, the one or more inhibitors is / are a mixture of NBPT, PGA and DCD.

[0130] In some embodiments, the stabilized urea is present in an amount of 80 wt.% to 99 wt.%, preferably 85 wt.% to 99 wt.%, and / or preferably 95 wt.% to 99 wt.% of the total weight of the composition.

[0131] In some embodiments, the stabilized urea comprises urea from 90 wt.% to 99.99 wt.%, preferably 92 wt.% to 99.98 wt.%, preferably 95 wt.% to 99.97 wt.%, preferably 97 wt.% to 99.96 wt.%, and / or preferably 99 wt.% to 99.95 wt.% of the total weight of the stabilized urea.

[0132] In some embodiments, the one or more inhibitors are present in an amount of 0.01 wt.% to 10 wt.%, preferably 0.02 wt.% to 8 wt.%, preferably 0.03 wt.% to 5 wt.%, preferably 0.04 wt.% to 3 wt.%, and / or preferably 0.05 wt.% to 1 wt.% of the total weight of the stabilized urea.

[0133] In some embodiments, the stabilized urea comprises 0 wt.% to 100 wt.% of urease inhibitor of the total weight of the one or more inhibitors. In some preferred embodiments, the stabilized urea comprises 0 wt.% to 100 wt.%, preferably 10 wt.% to 90 wt.%, preferably 20 wt.% to 80 wt.%, preferably 30 wt.% to 70 wt.%, and / or preferably 40 wt.% to 60 wt.% of urease inhibitor of the total weight of one or more inhibitors.

[0134] In some embodiments, the stabilized urea comprises 0 wt.% to 100 wt.% of nitrification inhibitor of the total weight of the one or more inhibitors. In some preferred embodiments, the stabilized urea comprises 100 wt.% to 0 wt.%, preferably 90 wt.% to 10 wt.%, preferably 80wt.% to 20 wt.%, preferably 70 wt.% to 30 wt.%, and / or preferably 60 wt.% to 40 wt.% of urease inhibitor of the total weight of one or more inhibitors.

[0135] In some preferred embodiments, the stabilized urea is mixed with the core and / or at least partially coated on the core. The core in either liquid or solid form, may be mixed with the stabilized urea. Alternatively, the stabilized urea may be incorporated by granulation, compacting or prilling, by addition to the core or to a mash or melt.

[0136] In some embodiments, the core can be fattened with the stabilized urea. Preferably the core can be at least partially coated with the stabilized urea, preferably the coating substantially surrounds the core, preferably the coating fully surrounds the core. In some embodiments, the coating can be further covered with another material (layer) and, thus, would not be the most outer layer of the fertilizer composition. Advantageously, the stabilized urea is applied to the surface of the core formed in the shape of granules, compacts or prills, by means of spraying, powder application or impregnating, for example. Preferably, the coating may be performed by spraying the stabilized urea on the core.

[0137] In some embodiments, the core may further comprise fertilizer nutrients. These fertilizer nutrients may comprise macronutrient fertilizer or a micronutrient fertilizer, or a combination thereof. The macronutrient fertilizer can comprise nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potash (K), calcium (Ca), sulfur (S), magnesium (Mg), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the macronutrient fertilizer is selected from urea, potash, ammonium phosphate, potassium sulfate, ammonium sulfate, potassium nitrate, calcium nitrate, sodium nitrate, potassium chloride, monoammonium phosphate (MAP), diammonium phosphate (DAP), triple super phosphate, NPK fertilizers, or a combination thereof. In some aspects, potassium and sulfur are provided by potassium sulfate (K₂SO₄). In some aspects, nitrogen and sulfur are provided by ammonium sulfate ((NH₄)₂SO₄).

[0138] In some embodiments, the fertilizer nutrients are present in an amount of 0 wt.% to 25 wt.%, preferably 5 wt.% to 20 wt.%, preferably 10 wt.% to 15 wt.% of the total weight of the fertilizer composition.

[0139] In some embodiments, the fertilizer composition may contain 10 wt.% to 99 wt.%, preferably 20 wt.% to 95 wt.%, preferably 30 wt.% to 90 wt.%, preferably 40 wt.% to 80 wt.% of nitrogen based on the total weight of the composition.In some embodiments, the fertilizer composition may contain 3 wt.% to 8 wt.%, preferably 4 wt.% to 8 wt.%, preferably 5 wt.% to 8 wt.%, preferably 5 wt.% to 7 wt.%, preferably 5 wt.% to 6 wt.% of sulfur based on the total weight of the composition.

[0140] In some embodiments, the fertilizer composition may contain 5 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 5 wt.% to 12 wt.%, preferably 5 wt.% to 10 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 10 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 12 wt.% to 15 wt.%, or preferably 5 wt.% to 8 wt.% potassium based on the total weight of the composition.

[0141] In some embodiments, the micronutrient fertilizer may comprise one or more of inorganic or organometallic compounds of boron (B), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), chlorine (Cl), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni), or zinc (Zn).

[0142] In some embodiments, the core can include one or more pH buffering agents to help counteract the tendency of urea fertilizer to acidify the soil. Examples of suitable pH buffering agents include, but are not limited to, CaCO₃, Na₂CO₃, K₂CO₃, MgO, KH₂PO₄, NaHCO₃, MgCO₃, chalk powder, aluminum, magnesium hydroxide, aluminum hydroxide / magnesium hydroxide co-precipitate, aluminum hydroxide / sodium bicarbonate co-precipitate, calcium acetate, calcium borate, calcium citrate, calcium gluconate, calcium hydroxide, dibasic sodium phosphate, dipotassium hydrogen phosphate, dipotassium phosphate, disodium hydrogen phosphate, magnesium acetate, magnesium borate, magnesium bicarbonate, magnesium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium lactate, magnesium oxide, magnesium phosphate, magnesium silicate, magnesium succinate, magnesium tartrate, potassium acetate, potassium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate, potassium borate, potassium citrate, potassium metaphosphate, potassium phthalate, potassium phosphate, potassium polyphosphate, potassium pyrophosphate, potassium succinate, potassium tartrate, sodium acetate, sodium bicarbonate, sodium borate, sodium carbonate, sodium citrate, sodium gluconate, sodium hydrogen phosphate, sodium hydroxide, sodium lactate, sodium phthalate, sodium phosphate, sodium polyphosphate, sodium pyrophosphate, sodium tartrate, sodium tripolyphosphate, synthetic hydrotalcite, tetrapotassium pyrophosphate, tetrasodium pyrophosphate, tripotassium phosphate, trisodium phosphate, trometamol, or a combination thereof.

[0143] In some embodiments, the core can comprise a filler. A filler is a material that can facilitate the release of inhibitors or micronutrients from the fertilizer core particle. Accordingly, a filler is added to a matrix material with improve the properties of the core. A filler can be selected to enhance physical and release properties of the fertilizer core particle. For example, the goodsurface texture and good crush strength of the fertilizer core particle can be achieved by using bleached wheat flour, as a binder, and colloidal silica, as a filler.

[0144] In a preferred embodiment, the filler comprises rice husk, silica, colloidal silica, dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS), kaolin, bentonite, or other biomaterial, or a combination thereof. For example, the core can comprise silica. In another example, the core can comprise colloidal silica. In yet another example, the core can comprise dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS). In yet another example, the core can comprise kaolin. In yet another example, the core can comprise bentonite. In yet another example, the core can comprise rice husk. In yet another example, the particle can comprise any combination of silica, colloidal silica, dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS), kaolin, bentonite, and other biomaterial.

[0145] In a preferred embodiment, the core comprises from greater than 0 wt.% to 60 wt.% of the filler of the total weight of the core. Preferably the core comprises from greater than 0 wt.% to 50 wt.%, preferably 0 wt.% to 40 wt.%, preferably 0 wt.% to 30 wt.%, preferably 0 wt.% to 25 wt.%, preferably 0 wt.% to 20 wt.%, preferably 10 wt.% to 30 wt.% of the filler of the total weight of the core.

[0146] In some embodiments, the composition may further comprise an outermost layer comprising a hydrophobic material selected from wax, polymers, oils, or a combination thereof. Preferably the hydrophobic material is a wax. Suitable waxes include, but are not limited to, vegetable waxes, high melt waxes, ethylene bis(stearamide) wax, paraffin waxes, polyethylene based waxes, and olefin waxes. The composition may comprise the hydrophobic material in an amount of 0-10 wt.% of the total weight of the composition. Preferably the hydrophobic material in an amount of 1 to 8 wt.%, preferably 1 to 6 wt.%, preferably 1 to 5 wt.%, preferably 1 to 4 wt.%, preferably 1 to 3 wt.% of the total weight of the composition. The outermost layer may form a coating over at least a portion of an outer surface of layer over which the outermost layer is provided.

[0147] In some embodiments, the composition may further comprise a binder present in an amount of 1 wt.%-10 wt.% on the total weight of the composition, wherein the binder is selected from bleached wheat flour, gaur gum, calcium ligno sulfonate, gelatin, seaweed extract, plaster of paris, flour, starch, cellulose, gluten, colloidal silica, kaolin, bentonite, polyethylene glycol (PEG), polycaprolactone, low molecular weight polyvinyl acetate, silica, dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS), rice husk, or a combination thereof.In some embodiments, the composition comprises one or more additives selected from calcium carbonate, calcium oxide, a phosphate, a polyphosphate, a biodegradable polymer, wax, or a combination thereof. Suitable phosphates include, but are not limited to, diammonium phosphate, and monoammonium phosphate. Suitable polyphosphates include, but are not limited to, ammonium polyphosphate. Suitable biodegradable polymers include, but are not limited to, polyacrylamide, polyacrylic acid, polyacrylonitrile, biodegradable polylactic acid, and other biodegradable polymeric material such as polylactic acid, poly (3 -hydroxypropionic acid), polyvinyl alcohol, poly e-caprolactone, poly L-lactide, poly butylene succinate, and biodegradable starch based polymers.

[0148] The fertilizer as disclosed can be of any suitable shape or may be a liquid, powder, or slurry. Non-limiting shapes include spherical, cuboidal, cylindrical, puck shape, oval, and oblong shapes. In some embodiments, the fertilizer can be of prismatic or a cylindrical shape with a circular, elliptical, ovular, triangular, square, rectangular, pentagonal, or hexagonal cross section, although a prismatic or cylindrical shaped fertilizers having a cross-section of other shapes can also be made. In some embodiments, the fertilizer can have a dimension such as length, width, height and / or cross-sectional diameter between 0.5 mm to 5 mm, preferably 1 mm to 4.5 mm, preferably 2 mm to 4 mm, preferably 3 mm to 4 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 4 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 3 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 2 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 1 mm, or preferably 2 mm to 3 mm. In some preferred embodiments, the fertilizer can have a substantially spherical shape with an average diameter of 1 mm to 5 mm, preferably 1 mm to 4.5 mm, preferably 2 mm to 4 mm, preferably 3 mm to 4 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 4 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 3 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 2 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 1 mm, or preferably 2 mm to 3 mm.

[0149] The fertilizer granules can have desirable physical properties such as desired levels of abrasion resistance, granule strength, pelletizability, hygroscopicity, granule shape, and size distribution, which are important properties for the core.

[0150] The fertilizer granules described herein can be comprised in a composition useful for application to soil, water, and / or a crop. In addition to the fertilizer granules, the composition may include other fertilizer compounds, micronutrients, primary nutrients, additional urea, additional nitrogen nutrients, insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, or a combination thereof. The fertilizer granules described herein can also be included in a blended composition comprising other fertilizer granules. The other fertilizer granules can be granules of urea,monoammonium phosphate (MAP), diammonium phosphate (DAP), muriate of potash (MOP), monopotassium phosphate (MKP), triple super phosphate (TSP), rock phosphate, single super phosphate (SSP), ammonium sulfate, and the like.

[0151] Method of Making Fertilizer Compositions

[0152] Method of producing the fertilizer composition comprising one or more urea-based compounds, a stabilized urea comprising one or more inhibitors is disclosed.

[0153] In some embodiments, the method for preparing a composition suitable for a fertilizer comprising the steps of:

[0154] a) providing a core comprising one or more urea-based compounds of formula I and / or formula II and / or formula III and / or formula IV and / or formula V;

[0155] O 9,-C,.. C. H2N / '' KiH. HN ' NM^CH. R" formula III

[0156] O O

[0157]

[0158] RsCH N " ' -NH — HN ' ' N --- CH — R7formula IVR°

[0159] o

[0160] || " NH

[0161] zC\ zk xk

[0162] HNZ'' NH- ' ' ’< O

[0163]

[0164] H

[0165] formula V

[0166] wherein each of the variables ‘m’, ‘n’, ‘o’, ‘p’ and ‘q’ are integers ranging from 0 to 5, wherein m+n+o+p+q≥1; wherein each of the substituents R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9are independently same or different, wherein each of the substituents R2and R3are independently selected from linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; wherein R1, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9are independently selected from hydrogen, linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; and

[0167] b) mixing or fattening the core with a stabilized urea;

[0168] wherein the stabilized urea comprises urea and one or more inhibitors;

[0169] wherein the one or more inhibitors are selected from a urease inhibitor, a nitrification inhibitor, or a combination thereof; and

[0170] wherein fattening comprises at least partially coating the stabilized urea on the core.

[0171] In some embodiments, the method of preparing a composition suitable for a fertilizer is disclosed that comprises the steps of:

[0172] a) providing a core comprising one or more urea-based compounds of formula I and / or formula II and / or formula III and / or formula IV and / or formula V;

[0173] wherein each of the variables ‘m’, ‘n’, ‘o’, ‘p’ and ‘q’ are integers ranging from 0 to 5, wherein m+n+o+p+q≥1; wherein each of the substituents R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9are independently same or different, wherein each of the substituents R2and R3are independently selected from linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; wherein R1, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9are independently selected from hydrogen, linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; and

[0174] b) mixing the core with a stabilized urea.

[0175] wherein the stabilized urea comprises urea and one or more inhibitors; and

[0176] wherein the one or more inhibitors are selected from a urease inhibitor, a nitrification inhibitor, or a combination thereof.In some embodiments, the process of preparing a composition suitable for a fertilizer is disclosed that comprises comprising the steps of:

[0177] a) providing a core comprising one or more urea-based compounds of formula I and / or formula II and / or formula III and / or formula IV and / or formula V;

[0178] wherein each of the variables ‘m’, ‘n’, ‘o’, ‘p’ and ‘q’ are integers ranging from 0 to 5, wherein m+n+o+p+q≥1; wherein each of the substituents R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9are independently same or different, wherein each of the substituents R2and R3are independently selected from linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; wherein R1, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9are independently selected from hydrogen, linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; and

[0179] b) fattening the core with a stabilized urea;

[0180] wherein the stabilized urea comprises urea and one or more inhibitors; and

[0181] wherein the one or more inhibitors are selected from a urease inhibitor, a nitrification inhibitor, or a combination thereof.

[0182] In some embodiments of the present invention, the process may comprise providing an outermost layer comprising a hydrophobic material selected from wax, polymers, oils, or a combination thereof, preferably the hydrophobic material is wax. In some embodiments, the outermost layer can be at least partially coated.

[0183] With reference to FIG. 1, a non-limiting method (100) of making a fertilizer composition can include providing a core comprising one or more urea-based compounds. In some instances, urea and one or more inhibitors are mixed in step (102) to form a stabilized urea. In some instances, the stabilized urea is mixed with one or more urea-based compounds in step (103). In some instances, the one or more inhibitors are selected from a urease inhibitor, a nitrification inhibitor, or a combination thereof. In some instances, the one or more urea-based compounds can be in a molten state while mixing in step (102). In some instances, the stabilized urea can be in a molten state while mixing in step (103). In some instances, the stabilized urea can be heated during mixing or pre-heated before mixing. In some instances, the one or more urea-based compounds can be heated during mixing or pre-heated before mixing. In some instances, the stabilized urea is heated to a room temperature or up to 90 °C or more. Blending can be achieved by mixing or coating. The mixing can be performed by processes such as stirring,vortexing, homogenizing, shaking, pouring, etc. In some instances, the core is fattened with the stabilized urea.

[0184] In some instances, optionally, the composition obtained in step (103) is dried in a drying step (104). The composition can be dried by any means known, including exposure to ambient air, heated sweep gas, unheated sweep gas, heat, etc.

[0185] The method (100) can further include an optional step (105) of coating the fertilizer composition obtained in step (104) to form an outermost layer comprising a hydrophobic material selected from wax, polymers, oils, or a combination thereof. In some instances, the preferable hydrophobic material is wax. In step (105), the coating can be applied by a variety of methods, such as spraying, pouring, mixing, blending, etc. A fluid bed sprayer or coater, a liquid spray mixer, a rotating drum or pan, spray coating at discharge point, a paddle mixer, etc. can be used.

[0186] With reference to FIG. 2, a non-limiting composition (200) for a fertilizer can include a core (201) comprising one or more urea-based compounds. The composition can also include a stabilized urea (202) comprising a urea and one or more inhibitors. The one or more inhibitors can be selected from a urease inhibitor, a nitrification inhibitor, or a combination thereof. In some instances, the one or more urea-based compounds can be present in an amount of the one or more urea-based compounds are present in an amount of 1 wt.% to 20 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 10 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 5 wt.% of the total weight of the composition. The stabilized urea is present in an amount of 80 wt.% to 99 wt.%, preferably 85 wt.% to 99 wt.%, preferably 90 wt.% to 99 wt.% and / or preferably 95 wt.% to 99 wt.% of the total weight of the composition.

[0187] In some instances, the core can further comprise a macronutrient fertilizer comprising one of more of inorganic or organic compounds of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), sulfur (S), or magnesium (Mg), and / or a micronutrient fertilizer comprising one or more of inorganic or organometallic compounds of boron (B), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), chlorine (Cl), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni), or zinc (Zn).

[0188] In some instances, the stabilized urea (202) can be mixed with the core (201). In some instances, the core (201) can be fattened with the stabilized urea (202). In some instances, the stabilized urea can cover 100% of the surface area of the core. In some instances, not shown, the stabilized urea (202) can cover less than 100% of the outer surface area of the core (201) (e.g., 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80 %, 90%, 95%, or 99% of the outer surfacearea of the core (201), or any range therein). In some instances, the coating of the stabilized urea (202) on the core is not continuous (not shown).

[0189] In some instances, the composition (200) can further include an outermost layer (203) comprising a hydrophobic material. The hydrophobic material can be selected from wax, polymers, oils, or a combination thereof. In some instances, the preferable hydrophobic material is wax.

[0190] In some instances, the composition (200) can be in the form of a granule. The granule can be a solid material and can have a variety of different shapes, non-limiting examples of which include a sphere, a puck, an oval, a rod, an oblong, or a random shape.

[0191] Methods of Using Fertilizers Composition

[0192] In some embodiments, the fertilizer compositions of the present disclosure can be used in methods of increasing the amount of one or more nutrients in soil, and of enhancing plant growth. In some embodiments, methods can include applying to the soil an effective amount of a composition of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, methods may include increasing the growth and yield of crops, trees, ornamentals, etc. such as, for example, palm, coconut, rice, wheat, corn, barley, oats, and soybeans. In some embodiments, methods can include applying the fertilizer of the present disclosure to at least one of a soil, an organism, a liquid carrier, a liquid solvent, etc. (e.g., a target substrate).

[0193] In some embodiments, the fertilizer composition can be stored. In some embodiments, the fertilizer composition can be stored for any amount of time, such as 1 minute, 10 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, 16 hours, 1 day, 2 days, 5 days, 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 4 weeks, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, 4 months, 5 months, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, 4 years, 5 years or more, or any amount of time. In some embodiments, fertilizer components of the fertilizer composition have an extended shelf life relative to the slow-release fertilizers created through traditional methods.

[0194] Non-limiting examples of plants that can benefit from the fertilizer composition of the present invention include vines, trees, shrubs, stalked plants, fems, etc. The plants may include orchard crops, vines, ornamental plants, food crops, timber, and harvested plants. The plants may include Gymnosperms, Angiosperms, and / or Pteridophytes. The Gymnosperms may include plants from the Araucariaceae, Cupressaceae, Pinaceae, Podocarpaceae, Sciadopitaceae, Taxaceae, Cycadaceae, and Ginkgoaceae families. The Angiosperms may include plants fromthe Aceraceae, Agavaceae, Anacardiaceae, Annonaceae, Apocynaceae, Aquifoliaceae, Araliaceae, Arecaceae, Asphodelaceae, Asteraceae, Berberidaceae, Betulaceae, Bignoniaceae, Bombacaceae, Boraginaceae, Burseraceae, Buxaceae, Canellaceae, Cannabaceae, Capparidaceae, Caprifoliaceae, Caricaceae, Casuarinaceae, Celastraceae, Cercidiphyllaceae, Chrysobalanaceae, Clusiaceae, Combretaceae, Cornaceae, Cyrillaceae, Davidsoniaceae, Ebenaceae, Elaeagnaceae, Ericaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae, Fagaceae, Grossulariaceae, Hamamelidaceae, Hippocastanaceae, Illiciaceae, Juglandaceae, Lauraceae, Lecythidaceae, Lythraceae, Magnoliaceae, Malpighiaceae, Malvaceae, Melastomataceae, Meliaceae, Moraceae, Moringaceae, Muntingiaceae, Myoporaceae, Myricaceae, Myrsinaceae, Myrtaceae, Nothofagaceae, Nyctaginaceae, Nyssaceae, Olacaceae, Oleaceae, Oxalidaceae, Pandanaceae, Papaveraceae, Phyllanthaceae, Pittosporaceae, Platanaceae, Poaceae, Polygonaceae, Proteaceae, Punicaceae, Rhamnaceae, Rhizophoraceae, Rosaceae, Rubiaceae, Rutaceae, Salicaceae, Sapindaceae, Sapotaceae, Simaroubaceae, Solanaceae, Staphyleaceae, Sterculiaceae, Strelitziaceae, Styracaceae, Surianaceae, Symplocaceae, Tamaricaceae, Theaceae, Theophrastaceae, Thymelaeaceae, Tiliaceae, Ulmaceae, Verbenaceae, and / or Vitaceae families.

[0195] In some embodiments, the effectiveness of composition comprising the fertilizer composition of the present invention can be ascertained by measuring the amount of the particular nutrients in the soil at various times after applying the fertilizer composition to the soil. It is understood that different soils have different characteristics, which can affect the stability of nutrients and microorganisms in the soil. In some embodiments, effectiveness of the disclosed composition can be directly compared to other fertilizer compositions by doing a side-by-side comparison in the same soil under the same conditions.

[0196] In some embodiments, the fertilizer compositions according to the present disclosure can have a density that is greater than water. This can allow the granules and / or fertilizers to sink in water rather than float. This can be especially beneficial in instances where application is intended to a crop that is at least partially or fully submerged in water. A non-limiting example of such a crop is rice, as the ground in a rice paddy is typically submerged in water. Thus, application of the fertilizer compositions to such crops can be performed such that the granules and / or fertilizer are homogenously distributed on the ground that is submerged under water.EXAMPLES

[0197] The present invention will be described in greater detail by way of specific examples. The following examples are offered for illustrative purposes only, and are not intended to limit the invention in any manner. Those of skill in the art will readily recognize a variety of noncritical parameters which can be changed or modified to yield essentially the same results.

Claims

1. CLAIMS1. A composition suitable for a fertilizer comprising:i. a core comprising one or more urea-based compounds of formula I and / or formula II and / or formula III and / or formula IV and / or formula V;formula IFCformula IIO OzCx H2NZ" - HNZ XN= CH — R6formula IIIO OZcz zcxR8— CH =: N / "ZNH HNz" =: CH R7formula IVR9O J.rz'NHx" C\,-Zvx „ • A"HN"'"XNHZ" T)formula Vwherein each of the variables ‘m’, ‘n’, ‘o’, ‘p’ and ‘q’ are integers ranging from 0 to 5, wherein m+n+o+p+q≥1; wherein each of the substituents R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9are independently same or different, wherein each of the substituents R2, R3, R4, R5,R6, R7, R8, R9are independently selected from linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; andii. a stabilized urea comprising urea and one or more inhibitors;wherein the one or more inhibitors are selected from a urease inhibitor, a nitrification inhibitor, or a combination thereof.

2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the one or more urea-based compounds are selected from methylene urea, dimethylene urea, dimethylene diurea, dimethylene triurea, trimethylene tetraurea, isobutylene diurea, methylene urea-isobutylene diurea, crotonylidene diurea, ethylidenediurea or a combination thereof.

3. The composition of any of claims 1-2, wherein the urease inhibitor is selected from N- nitrophenyl phosphoric triamide (NPT), N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (NBTPT), N-(n-propyl)thiophosphoric triamide (NPTPT), phenyl phosphorodiamidate (PPDA), pyro glutamic acid (PGA), or a combination thereof, preferably the urease inhibitor NPT, PGA, NBPT, or a combination thereof.

4. The composition of any of claims 1-3, wherein the nitrification inhibitor is selected from dicyandiamide (DCD), 3,4-dimethylpyrazole phosphate (DMPP), thio-urea (TU), 2-chloro-6-(trichloromethyl)-pyridine (Nitrapyrin), 5-ethoxy-3 -trichloromethyl- 1,2,4- thiadiazol (Terrazole), 2-amino-4-chloro-6-methyl-pyrimidine (AM), 2-mercapto- benzothiazole (MBT), 2-sulfanilamid-thiazole (ST), N-((3(5)-methyl-lH-pyrazol-l-yl) methyl) acetamide (MPA) or a combination thereof, preferably the nitrification inhibitor is DCD.

5. The composition of any of claims 1-4, wherein the urease inhibitor comprises NPT and PGA, or NBPT and PGA.

6. The composition of any of claims 1-5, wherein the stabilized urea comprises the one or more inhibitors selected from NPT and PGA and DCD, or NBPT and PGA and DCD.

7. The composition of any of claim 1-6, wherein the stabilized urea is mixed with the core and / or at least partially coated on the core.

8. The composition of any of claims 1-7, wherein the composition further comprises an outermost layer comprising a hydrophobic material selected from wax, polymers, oils, or a combination thereof, preferably the hydrophobic material is wax.

9. The composition of any of claims 1-8, wherein the one or more urea-based compounds are present in an amount of 1 wt.% to 20 wt.% of the total weight of the composition and the stabilized urea is present in an amount of 80 wt.% to 99 wt.% of the total weight of the composition.

10. The composition of any of claims 1-9, wherein the stabilized urea comprises 90 wt.% to 99.99 wt.% of the total weight of the stabilized urea.

11. The composition of any of claims 1-10, wherein the one or more inhibitors are present in an amount of 0.01 wt.% to 10 wt.% of the total weight of the stabilized urea.

12. The composition according to any of claims 1-11, wherein the core further comprises a macronutrient fertilizer comprising one of more of inorganic or organic compounds of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), sulfur (S), or magnesium (Mg), and / or a micronutrient fertilizer comprising one or more of inorganic or organometallic compounds of boron (B), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), chlorine (Cl), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni), or zinc (Zn).

13. A method for making a composition suitable for a fertilizer comprising the steps of:a) providing a core comprising one or more urea-based compounds of formula I and / or formula II and / or formula III and / or formula IV and / or formula V;O \ il i Cx i. R” formula IIo o II ilc\zc,HSN •NH. HNZ\N = CH. R* formula IIIRs- CH=: N 'NH HN / XN = CH R7formula IVR9O' "" MHHNZOHformula Vwherein each of the variables ‘m’, ‘n’, ‘o’, ‘p’ and ‘q’ are integers ranging from 0 to 5, wherein m+n+o+p+q≥1; wherein each of the substituents R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9are independently same or different, wherein each of the substituents R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9are independently selected from linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkylene groups having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; andb) mixing or fattening the core with a stabilized urea;wherein the stabilized urea comprises urea and one or more inhibitors;wherein the one or more inhibitors are selected from a urease inhibitor, a nitrification inhibitor, or a combination thereof; andwherein fattening comprises at least partially coating the stabilized urea on the core.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the method further comprises providing an outermost layer comprising a hydrophobic material selected from wax, polymers, oils, or a combination thereof, preferably the hydrophobic material is wax.

15. Use of the composition of any one of claims 1-12 or the composition produced by the method of any one of claims 13-14 as a fertilizer, a fertilizer blend, a compounded fertilizer, or a combination thereof.

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