Main research and development topics
Our objective is to develop special fertilisers that meet the agricultural and horicultural requirements of today as well as those of the future. This currently includes, in particular:
- increasing nutrient utilisation and thus further improvement of the environmental compatibility by the use of N stabilisers
- development of combined N/S fertilisers
- cost-effective and environmentally friendly application of mineral and organic fertilisers
Hans-Joachim.Niclas@skwp.de
Thomas.Kreuter@skwp.de
Search for new nitrogen stabilisers
Our work focuses on the search for new active substances that are able to minimise nitrogen losses that have a detrimental effect on the environment. This means reducing the risk of nitrate leaching and reducing the emission of climate-relevant gases. New compounds produced by extensive synthesis work at SKW Piesteritz have to be given an initial check with regard to their potential effects on these processes by means of specific screening tests in the laboratory. Particular emphasis is placed on the development of highly efficient nitrification inhibitors for mineral and organic fertilisers.
Investigations in the laboratory and greenhouse
New active substances are tested in the laboratory by means of powerful specific test systems to find highly effective nitrification inhibitors. Modern test methods are used in the soil model test to study the compound's effectiveness in inhibiting microbial oxidation of reduced nitrogen (N fertilisers containing carbamide or ammonia). In addition to the selection of promising candidates, further work includes ecotoxicological investigations, e.g. leaching behaviour, nitrification activity, behaviour of residues in the soils and plants. In greenhouse studies, Mitscherlich pots are used to test the active substances and their combinations that have been selected by means of the model tests. These investigations mainly focus on the determination of the following criteria:
- verification of the effectivity depending on the applied amount, type of fertiliser, soil type and formulation
- reduction of the potential loss of N
- effects on the yield parameters and ingredients
This research work in the laboratory and greenhouse is carried out using a modern analysis system to determine the nitrogen and sulphur dynamics and to characterise the fertiliser and active substances.
Toxicology and environmental properties
The decisive prerequisite for the development of N-stabilised fertilisers is the exclusion of any negative effects on humans, animals and the environment. In this respect, we are in agreement with the legislatory requirements pertaining to fertilisers for all products. The toxicological and ecotoxicological harmlessness as well as the environmental properties of the products must be proved by means of numerous studies that are presented to the scientific advisory committee dealing with fertilisers commissioned by the Federal Ministry of Consumer Protection, Food and Agriculture as the responsible licensing authority.
Environment
Field trials
Application engineering investigations and development of fertiliser systems with respect to their effects on the yield, N utilisation, reduction of losses and economic viability.
Field trials to formulate recommendations for the application of fertilisers...
- under various local conditions (weather, soil, etc.)
- for a number of agricultural crops and varieties
- in annual comparisons and long-term trials
- on the company's own test fields as well as at numerous partners
Practical trials and market maturity
After thorough testing, practical trials are carried out either on our partners' premises or on our own 142 ha of fields reserved for agricultural trials.
Only at the end of this development process is there a product that, if used correctly, ensures that the farmer obtains high yields in a good quality with a high level of economic viability. This is supported by the corresponding application recommendations of SKW. Our customers and partners also know that we guarantee a high level of environmental compatibility for the individual products.
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