Humic Extract Preparation Using Citric Acid and Potassium Bicarbonate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fertilizing formulations based on humates and humic extracts from fossil sources face issues of unsatisfactory agronomic results, environmental impact, and toxicity, leading to the need for environmentally friendly and effective alternatives.
Innovation Solution
Development of new fertilizer formulations using a complex of humic and/or fulvic acids, prepared by mixing a fossil base material with water, citric acid, and an alkaline solution of potassium bicarbonate and folic acid, which results in high functionality and sustainability, allowing for improved soil and plant health without toxicity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If synthetic chelating agents (EDTA, DTPA) are used in fertilizer preparation, then metal nutrient availability is improved, but environmental pollution of groundwater and soil increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical parameters by replacing synthetic chelating agents with natural organic acids (citric acid, gluconic acid) and their salts. This substitution maintains the chelating function for metal nutrient availability while eliminating the environmental persistence and pollution problems associated with synthetic agents like EDTA and DTPA.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs naturally derived, biodegradable chelating agents that break down quickly in the environment compared to persistent synthetic agents. These natural organic acids and their salts provide temporary but effective chelating action without long-term environmental accumulation, aligning with the principle of using short-living, environmentally benign materials.
2Quantity of substance
If high pH alkaline agents (potassium hydroxide, ammonium hydrate) are used for extraction, then humic acid solubilization is improved, but plant toxicity and environmental harm increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the pH parameter by using milder alkaline agents (potassium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate) instead of strong bases like potassium hydroxide. This achieves sufficient humic acid solubilization while maintaining pH levels that are non-toxic to plants and environmentally safe, typically in the range of 7-9.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces organic acids (citric acid, gluconic acid) as intermediary substances that facilitate humic acid extraction and solubilization through chelation mechanisms. These intermediaries enable effective extraction at lower, safer pH levels, mediating between the need for solubilization and the avoidance of toxic conditions.
3Quantity of substance
If conventional fertilizing formulations are used, then nutrient supply is provided, but agronomic results remain unsatisfactory and soil properties are not improved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates composite fertilizer formulations that combine humic acids with metal nutrients, organic acids, and other beneficial components. This composite approach enhances nutrient availability through chelation, improves soil structure and biology, and provides synergistic effects that superior agronomic results compared to conventional single-component fertilizers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent develops multi-functional fertilizer products that simultaneously provide nutrient supply, soil structure improvement, water retention enhancement, and plant growth promotion. The humic acid-based formulations perform multiple functions including chelation of nutrients, stimulation of microbial activity, and improvement of root development, making them more effective than conventional single-purpose fertilizers.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The formulations enhance soil quality and plant growth, reduce the need for mineral fertilizers, and increase crop resistance and productivity while being environmentally sustainable, with a pH range that ensures compatibility and effectiveness in various soil conditions.
Implementation Method 1
mixing a fossil base material with water, citric acid
Implementation Method 2
preparation of humic extracts from fossil sources
Implementation Method 3
an alkaline solution of potassium bicarbonate and folic acid
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of fertilizing compositions and to the compositions obtained.