Urea-rich sodium alginate-based hydrogel fertilizer as a water reservoir and slow-release N carrier for tomato cultivation under different water-deficit levels.

In this study, a new eco-friendly urea-rich sodium alginate-based hydrogel with a slow-release nitrogen property was prepared, and its effectiveness was evaluated in the cultivation of tomato plants under different water stress levels. The structure and performance of the hydrogel were investigated by FTIR, XRD, TGA, DTG, and SEM. The swelling and release experiments showed that prepared urea-rich hydrogel exhibited a high-water holding capacity (412 ± 4 g/g) and showed a sustained and slow nitrogen release property.

Correction: Recent advances in nano-fertilizers: synthesis, crop yield impact, and economic analysis.

Correction for 'Recent advances in nano-fertilizers: synthesis, crop yield impact, and economic analysis' by Badr-Eddine Channab , , 2024, https://doi.org/10.1039/d3nr05012b.

Recent advances in nano-fertilizers: synthesis, crop yield impact, and economic analysis.

The escalating global demand for food production has predominantly relied on the extensive application of conventional fertilizers (CFs). However, the increased use of CFs has raised concerns regarding environmental risks, including soil and water contamination, especially within cereal-based cropping systems. In response, the agricultural sector has witnessed the emergence of healthier alternatives by utilizing nanotechnology and nano-fertilizers (NFs).

Effect of sodium alginate-based superabsorbent hydrogel on tomato growth under different water deficit conditions.

The main challenge facing agriculture today is water scarcity. At present, agriculture consumes around 70 % of the planet's freshwater, much of which is lost through evaporation, leaching and runoff. This wastage, combined with the increased frequency and severity of droughts linked to climate change, is having a considerable negative impact on crops.