Biodegradable Polymer Matrix for Controlled Crop Protection Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for crop protection require multiple applications of pesticides and face challenges in effectively controlling late-season pest pressure, especially in large fields where equipment entry can damage growing plants and is not economically viable, necessitating improved delivery of crop protection agents at the right stage of crop development with reduced application rates.
Innovation Solution
An agricultural composition comprising a biodegradable polymer, a crop protection agent, and a root proliferant, where the crop protection agent and root proliferant are dispersed in a matrix encapsulated by a polymer layer, providing controlled release and increased water permeability, allowing for efficient uptake by crops and reduced application rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple applications of pesticides are made to control pest pressure, then effective pest control is achieved, but the frequency of equipment entry increases causing plant injury and economic loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by incorporating crop protection agents into the seed coating formulation before planting. This allows the protective agent to be present on the seed surface and in the rhizosphere from the beginning, providing early-season pest control and reducing the need for later applications that would require equipment entry into the field.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by employing a controlled-release matrix system that mediates between the crop protection agent and the environment. The matrix controls the release rate of the active ingredient, providing sustained protection over time and reducing the frequency of reapplication needed.
2Reliability
If crop protection agents are applied at higher rates to ensure adequate protection, then pest control effectiveness improves, but the environmental impact and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the release kinetics of the crop protection agent through the controlled-release matrix. The matrix is designed to release the active ingredient at optimized rates over extended periods, ensuring adequate protection while minimizing excess application and reducing environmental loss of the substance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuity of useful action through the controlled-release mechanism that provides sustained delivery of the crop protection agent throughout the critical growth period. This continuous low-rate release maintains effective concentrations without the peaks and valleys associated with conventional application methods, reducing overall substance loss.
3Reliability
If conventional pesticide application methods are used, then initial pest pressure is controlled, but late-season pest pressure becomes difficult to control effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves continuity of useful action through the controlled-release matrix that continuously delivers the crop protection agent from planting through late season. This sustained release mechanism ensures protective concentrations are maintained throughout the entire growing season, addressing both early and late-season pest pressures with a single application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by using lower rates of crop protection agent delivered continuously over time rather than high rates applied intermittently. The controlled-release matrix provides just enough active ingredient at each moment to maintain protection, avoiding the excess application and subsequent degradation that limits the duration of conventional treatments.
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 composition ensures effective and sustained release of crop protection agents, enhancing pest control and crop yield by promoting root proliferation and improving the uptake of pesticides, thereby reducing the need for frequent applications and minimizing plant damage.
Implementation Method 1
the agricultural composition has an overall water permeability of about 1 to about 2000 g/m2/day at 25 degrees Celsius
Implementation Method 2
the root proliferant comprises phosphate in a weight % of about 1-70%
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to systems, compositions and methods for providing nutrients, root proliferants, crop protection agents and other crop inputs for a plant. The disclosure also relates to methods for increasing the uptake of a crop active compound into a growing plant.