Thermochemical processing of boron-impregnated cellulose insulation waste for upcycling to slow-release boron fertilizers

Maarten Everaert, Olivier Duboc, Elden Willems, Gerhard Soja, Christoph Pfeifer, Niels Van Velthoven, Rodrigo de Oliveira-Silva, Dimitrios Sakellariou, Jakob Santner

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Boron (B) fertilizers are essential for global crop production. Sustainable B use demands a higher efficiency of B fertilizers through controlled B release and an enhanced B recycling from secondary sources, e.g. B-impregnated cellulose fiber insulation (CFI) waste. In this study, thermochemical treatments based on combustion and py-rolysis were investigated for processing CFI waste into a slow-release B fertilizer. Hot-water extractions of ob-tained materials confirmed that slow-release properties were achieved, and material characterization with XRD, FTIR and 11B-NMR showed that these were largely the result of formation of sparingly soluble Ca-B phases. A seedling toxicity test with fodder rape demonstrated the benefit of this slow-release B in comparison with conventional soluble B to circumvent toxicity, suggesting potential for B application via seed coatings. Finally, a fertilization trial with fodder rape and poppy seed showed that most slow-release B compounds were equally effective as soluble B at recommended B doses, while slow-release B can still benefit from reduced B leaching losses.
Original languageEnglish
Article number136684
Number of pages12
JournalJournal of Cleaner Production
Volume399
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 May 2023

Research Field

  • Former Research Field - Health and Bioresources

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