Can binders improve SSP fertilizer granule hardness and storage characteristics?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on improving the hardness and storage characteristics of SSP fertilizer granules by considering various binding agents, specifically sodium silicate, potassium silicate, lignosulfonates, and bentonite clay. Concerns were raised about sodium silicate potentially lowering water solubility of granules and difficulties in drying. Recommendations include researching bentonite clay, which can be added in powder form, and caution against using silicates due to their drying challenges and potential to render micronutrients insoluble. The use of biodegradable surfactants with bentonite was also suggested to enhance hydrophobic properties.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of SSP fertilizer production processes
  • Knowledge of binding agents such as sodium silicate and bentonite clay
  • Familiarity with granulation techniques, particularly drum granulators
  • Basic principles of thixotropic materials and their effects in slurry applications
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties and application methods of bentonite clay in fertilizer production
  • Investigate the impact of biodegradable surfactants on bentonite clay's performance
  • Explore alternative binding agents like lignosulfonates and their effects on granule hardness
  • Study the drying characteristics of various binding agents in relation to SSP fertilizers
USEFUL FOR

Fertilizer production engineers, chemical engineers, and professionals involved in optimizing granule characteristics in agricultural products.

rommie
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Dear Forum

I am a junior engineer newly appointed by a fertilizer production company. I have been given the assignment to improve the SSP granule hardness and storage characteristics. Currently the granules are too soft and the drying time prior to bagging is also long. I am considering adding a binding agent to the fertilizer. I have considered sodium silicate, potassium silicate, lignosulfonates or bentonite clay as possible agents. However I am having considerable trouble finding reliable information regarding the use of these agents and the application methods. For example I am worried that if I should use sodium silicate, the granules' water solubility would be lowered considerably after drying in the drier. The fertilizer powder is granulated using drum granulators and water. Any advice or information is sincerely appreciated.

Regards
Rommie
 
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I am sure you will find literature from bentonite producers, and it can be added as a slurry to bind or act as a final coat. It should also become somewhat hydrophobic if a small amount of biodegradable surfactant is used in formulating. Look in patent literature with appropriate boolean search terms.

I would steer clear of silicates as they could render any micronutrients as insoluble rock. Also silicates can be hard to dry compared to clays.
 
Hi

Thank you for the advice!I have started to research bentonite clay. According to the plant manager it cannot be added in slurry form, he didn't explain why though, I'm assuming the clay might neutralize the acid in the slurry and influence the reactions. I am not sure whether adding it in a powder form to the powdered fertilizer and then granulating it using water would have any notable increases in granule strength. I am still searching for information and will post as soon as I have something that may be of interest.

Regards
Rommie
 
I can understand if the reactor is a tube or other reactor than a tank; plugging with clay would be very bad indeed... I thought however, that the fertilizer xtal slurry might be able to withstand the introduction of a clay slurry that is very dilute and held suspended with surfactant. The lines that feed the slurry would always have to be moving or plugging would be a problem due to the thixotropic effects of bentonite slurries.

If you are using a spray drier, the bentonite could be suspended in the drying air and may coat the prills and produce some of the results- I suspect it will also cause a lot of extra downtime chipping away coated walls... !>)