Candelilla Wax as Natural Slow-Release Matrix for Fertilizers Encapsulated by Spray Chilling

Abstract

Efforts to improve crop yields with efficient use of fertilizers are needed to guarantee global food security. Enhanced slow-release fertilizer systems (SRFs) encapsulated in biodegradable matrices are being developed to address this global concern. From a wide range of strategies for SRFs development, we explored a nature-inspired solution based on the plant cuticle model and its function as a membrane for water and nutrient transport control. Here, Candelilla wax, extracted from Candelilla wild plants (Euphorbia antisyphilitica), is studied as a renewable slow-release matrix for fertilizers encapsulated by a modified spray chilling process. From this process, microencapsulates containing 40 wt% of phosphorus fertilizer are obtained with distinctive sizes and chemical characteristics, presenting a slow-release behavior. Considering the abovementioned features, novel insights into fertilizer release mechanisms based on plant cuticle models are discussed.