| 摘要 |
This invention is a method for conveniently and economically manufacturing a zeolite-containing, slow-release fertilizer. For example, according to the method, crude zeolite ore is ground into particles. Crude waste precipitate from sugar beet refining, containing calcium carbonate, is also ground, screened, or shaken to a similar consistency. These components are then mixed in a roughly 2:1 weight ratio, zeolite:calcium carbonate, and preferably slurried with water. The water may be present in an amount, by weight, generally the same as the calcium carbonate component. After drying the mixed slurry, these mixed fertilizer precursor particles are processed for distribution using conventional means. When the precursor particles are applied to the field, they may be charged to become active, slow-release fertilizer by the addition of commercial agricultural fertilizers to the soil. Such commercial fertilizers may contain, for example, potassium and phosphorus. To prepare an application-ready fertilizer, commercial ammonium poly-phosphate solution (known in the industry as "10-34-0 solution"), or a similar substance, may also be mixed with the slurry at about 10 weight % of the zeolite. This way, the final mixture is ready as active fertilizer when applied to the field. An optional dust control agent may also be added to the zeolite: calcium carbonate mixture if desirable.
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