Chapter 4 - Characteristics and types of slow- and controlled-release fertilizers

Abstract

Slow- and controlled-release fertilizers (S/CRFs) are considered as novel and revolutionary approaches in the field of fertilizer synthesis. S/CRFs are seen as economical and environment-friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers. However, there is no consolidated, perfect, and institutionalized classification basis. This chapter highlights the various classification principles of SRFs and summarizes their history development phases. An improved classification of physical, chemical, and compound types of SRFs is also proposed. Here, the aim is to provide evidence for the selection procedure and focus on the development of innovative and improved proficiency for SRFs. The investigation further explains the attribution of various fertilizers and describes the utilization of representative fertilizers in each classification. The analytical methods used in the preparation and characterization of the novel S/CRFs, such as XRD, SEM, FT-IR, and TG-DTG will be discussed.