Journal article

Publication year: 2023

Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production

Volume number: 399

ISSN: 0959-6526

eISSN: 1879-1786

Open access status: Green

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2023.136684

Publisher: Elsevier

Abstract: 
Boron (B) fertilizers are essential for global crop production. Sustainable B use demands a higher efficiency of B fertilizers through controlled B release and an enhanced B recycling from secondary sources, e.g. B-impregnated cellulose fiber insulation (CFI) waste. In this study, thermochemical treatments based on combustion and py-rolysis were investigated for processing CFI waste into a slow-release B fertilizer. Hot-water extractions of ob-tained materials confirmed that slow-release properties were achieved, and material characterization with XRD, FTIR and 11B-NMR showed that these were largely the result of formation of sparingly soluble Ca-B phases. A seedling toxicity test with fodder rape demonstrated the benefit of this slow-release B in comparison with conventional soluble B to circumvent toxicity, suggesting potential for B application via seed coatings. Finally, a fertilization trial with fodder rape and poppy seed showed that most slow-release B compounds were equally effective as soluble B at recommended B doses, while slow-release B can still benefit from reduced B leaching losses.

Harvard Citation style: Everaert, M., Duboc, O., Willems, E., Soja, G., Pfeifer, C., Van Velthoven, N., et al. (2023) Thermochemical processing of boron-impregnated cellulose insulation waste for upcycling to slow-release boron fertilizers, Journal of Cleaner Production, 399, Article 136684. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2023.136684

APA Citation style: Everaert, M., Duboc, O., Willems, E., Soja, G., Pfeifer, C., Van Velthoven, N., de Oliveira-Silva, R., Sakellariou, D., & Santner, J. (2023). Thermochemical processing of boron-impregnated cellulose insulation waste for upcycling to slow-release boron fertilizers. Journal of Cleaner Production. 399, Article 136684. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2023.136684