Mastering Variables: Crafting Better Slow-Release Urea Granules

fertilizer granulator Dec 22, 2025

 Introduction: How is Good Fertilizer “Forged”?

In the field, we want nitrogen fertilizer to release slowly, nourishing crops persistently, rather than leaching or volatilizing quickly. Slow-release urea fertilizers are designed for this purpose. However, manufacturing high-quality slow-release urea granules is not a simple matter of mixing and pressing. It is more akin to a precise “culinary” process, where the raw material formulation is the recipe, and the granulation process is the heat and timing. A recent study delves into how adjusting two key “switches” in a disc granulator—binder concentration and granulation time—can precisely control the final “physical fitness” of fertilizer granules, thereby providing a scientific guide for producing more efficient and environmentally friendly slow-release urea.

I. The Core of the Study: Two Variables, Four Qualities

Imagine a rotating shallow pan where urea powder and a binder solution extracted from cassava starch are mixed and tumbled. The research team set up a clear comparative experiment: they fixed all other conditions like disc speed and inclination, and systematically changed only two factors: the concentration of the starch binder solution and the time the material spends tumbling in the pan for granulation.

They focused on these four “fitness” indicators that determine fertilizer quality:
1. Durability: Are the granules “tough” enough? Can they withstand collisions and friction during long-distance transport without turning into powder?
2. Density: Are the granules “fluffy” or “solid”? This affects the actual weight per bag of fertilizer, transportation costs, and application uniformity in the field.
3. Pelletizing Yield: How much raw material successfully turns into qualified granules? This directly impacts production efficiency and cost.
4. Water Absorption and Dispersion Time: Do the granules disintegrate quickly or release slowly upon contact with water? This is the core measure of their “slow-release” capability. We want them to dissolve like a slow-release candy, providing nutrients steadily in the soil.

II. Finding One: Binder Concentration—The “Glue” Matters

Cassava starch plays the role of “natural glue” here. The study found that the thickness of this “glue” has a decisive impact on granule quality.

When researchers increased the concentration of the starch solution, a positive chain reaction occurred: the granules’ water absorption, density, pelletizing yield, and durability all improved simultaneously. This is because a thicker starch solution forms a stronger, denser binding network around each urea particle. Just like using thicker glue for bonding, the adhesion is firmer, the structure is more compact, and the granules naturally become tougher, heavier, and have fewer internal pores.

More interestingly, granules made with higher concentration starch also “held on” longer in water. They disintegrated and released nutrients more slowly, which is the dream characteristic of slow-release fertilizers. Observations under an electron microscope showed that granules from the high-concentration group had surfaces like smooth, dense pebbles, while those from the low-concentration group had rough, porous surfaces, visually explaining the source of the performance difference.

III. Finding Two: Time—The Art of “Kneading”

Granulation time is like the kneading time when making dough. The study showed that extending the “kneading” time of the granules in the disc also led to comprehensive quality improvements.

Longer granulation time gives the powder more opportunities to collide, adhere, and round off. This results in more regular granule shapes and a more compact interior. Consequently, granule durability, density, and pelletizing yield all increased with time. Simultaneously, sufficient kneading allows the starch “glue” to distribute more evenly, forming a more complete coating. This not only slightly increases the granules’ water absorption capacity but, more importantly, extends their dispersion time in water, further optimizing the slow-release effect.

IV. Insights for Producers: How to “Customize on Demand”

This study turns complex processes into clear multiple-choice questions:

• If you want to produce high-end fertilizers with optimal controlled-release performance and superior storage/transport durability, the answer is: use a higher concentration of cassava starch binder and allow for a longer granulation time.

• If you need to strike a balance between production efficiency and cost to produce the most cost-effective product, you can utilize the data models derived from research to calculate the optimal combination of binder concentration and granulation time based on your specific requirements for granule density, strength, and release period.

It’s like mastering a precise “cooking” formula, allowing fertilizer producers to flexibly “customize” slow-release urea products with different specifications and performance according to market demand.

Optimizing Granulation: The Science Behind Consistent Fertilizer Pellets

The scientific study of binder concentration and granulation time directly applies to the core of npk fertilizer production technology. In a complete npk fertilizer production line, precise formulation using a npk blending machine ensures accurate nutrient ratios. The subsequent granulation stage, which is central to the npk fertilizer manufacturing process, leverages advanced npk granulation machine technology to transform this mix. The principles of optimizing binder properties and process timing are critical for equipment like a npk fertilizer granulator machine, whether it operates as a wet granulator or an alternative system like a fertilizer roller press machine for dry compaction.

Mastering these variables allows manufacturers to fine-tune the NPK compound fertilizer production capacity and the final product’s physical properties—such as density, strength, and dissolution rate. This level of control is essential for producing high-quality slow-release or controlled-release fertilizers. The integration of this scientific understanding into the operation of npk fertilizer granulator machine equipment demonstrates how empirical research translates into practical, scalable manufacturing excellence. It enables the production of consistent, “tailor-made” fertilizers that meet specific agronomic needs, enhancing nutrient use efficiency and supporting sustainable agricultural practices through precision engineering.

Conclusion

The power of science lies in transforming experience into quantifiable, replicable laws. This study on disc granulation process, through rigorous experimentation, reveals how two ordinary operational parameters—binder concentration and granulation time—act like levers to influence the final quality of slow-release urea granules. It not only provides a direct “operating manual” for fertilizer plants to optimize production but also brings us a step closer to the goal of producing more efficient, environmentally friendly, and intelligent “ideal fertilizers.” In the future, by exploring more “variables,” we can hope to design bespoke fertilizers, like precision instruments, perfectly tailored to the needs of every crop and every plot of soil.

Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunches: From Agricultural Waste to Effective Fertilizer

fertilizer granulator Dec 22, 2025

In the context of global climate change, the efficient utilization of agricultural waste to achieve resource recycling has become a critical issue for sustainable agriculture worldwide. Oil palm empty fruit bunches (EFB), a major by-product of palm oil production, have long been treated as waste, decomposing naturally or being incinerated, which not only wastes resources but also exacerbates greenhouse gas emissions. However, recent studies show that properly processed EFB can serve as an excellent soil conditioner, significantly improving soil properties and increasing crop yields.

Resource Potential and Processing Methods of EFB

Globally, approximately 99 million tons of EFB are produced annually. In Ghana alone, daily EFB production reaches 390 tons. Such vast amounts of organic waste, if utilized effectively, could greatly promote sustainable agricultural development. EFB is primarily applied in four forms: direct mulching, biochar, compost, and ash. Different processing methods directly influence its effectiveness as a fertilizer.

EFB’s Role in Promoting Crop Growth

A meta-analysis of 19 studies revealed that, compared to unamended soil, EFB application increased crop growth and yield by an average of 49.2%. Among the various forms, EFB biochar showed the most significant effect, increasing yield by up to 78.4%, followed by mulching (33.8%), composting (30.9%), and ash (21.0%). When EFB was co-applied with mineral fertilizers or other materials, crop yield still increased by 16.4%.

Key Factors Influencing EFB’s Effectiveness

The yield-enhancing effects of EFB are moderated by several factors:

Experimental Environment: Effects under greenhouse conditions were superior to those in open fields, with a difference of approximately 68%, mainly due to uncontrollable environmental variables in the field.

Soil Texture: EFB showed the most significant improvement in coarse-textured soils like sandy soil, with lesser effects on clay soil, indicating its greater potential for improving impoverished soils.

Crop Type: Although effects varied slightly among crops, EFB generally had a positive impact on all crop types.

Mechanisms of EFB in Soil Improvement

EFB is rich in nutrients such as potassium and nitrogen. Its application improves soil through the following pathways:

Biochar: Enhances soil porosity, water retention, and nutrient holding capacity, particularly raising the pH of acidic soils and promoting phosphorus uptake.

Compost: Reduces the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, promotes nutrient release, and increases soil organic matter and microbial activity.

Direct Mulching: Suppresses weeds, reduces soil erosion, and gradually releases nutrients during decomposition.

Sustainable Agriculture and Climate-Smart Choices

In resource-poor regions like sub-Saharan Africa, EFB offers smallholder farmers a low-cost, accessible soil improvement option. Moreover, converting EFB into biochar or compost contributes to carbon sequestration and emission reduction, achieving dual benefits for agriculture and the climate. For example, co-composting EFB with palm oil mill effluent can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 76%.

Challenges and Prospects

Despite its promising potential, EFB application faces several challenges:

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Converting EFB into biochar or compost requires additional investment, and its economic feasibility must be evaluated based on local conditions.

Nutrient Release Dynamics: The release of nutrients from EFB is influenced by soil and environmental factors, necessitating further research for precise application.

Resource Competition: EFB can also be used as fuel or industrial raw material, requiring integrated planning for its optimal utilization.

From Waste to Resource: Industrial Pathways for OPEFB Fertilizer

The valorization of Oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) is a key strategy in sustainable agriculture, unlocking the potential of its unique oil palm empty fruit bunch composition. The most effective uses of oil palm empty fruit bunch often involve transforming it through an efficient organic fertilizer fermentation process. This requires sophisticated fermentation composting turning technology to optimize decomposition, implemented using equipment like the chain compost turning machine or for large-scale operations.

Following complete stabilization, the composted OPEFB can be integrated into a formal organic fertilizer production line. To create a market-ready product, this line typically includes a granulation stage. Innovative equipment such as a new type two in one organic fertilizer granulator efficiently mixes and shapes the material into uniform pellets. For enhanced value, this process can be configured as a bio organic fertilizer production line, inoculating the compost with beneficial microbes. This systematic approach demonstrates a complete industrial workflow for converting a major agricultural by-product into high-quality, soil-enhancing fertilizers, supporting both circular economies and climate-resilient farming.

Conclusion

The utilization of oil palm empty fruit bunches as fertilizer not only addresses waste management challenges but also provides a viable pathway for enhancing soil fertility and climate resilience in global agriculture, particularly in tropical regions. Moving forward, through deeper research, optimized technologies, and policy support, EFB is poised to play an increasingly significant role in sustainable agriculture, contributing to both food security and ecological conservation.

Half-Wet Material Crusher: A Powerful Tool for Processing Moist Materials

fertilizer granulator Dec 22, 2025

Introduction: Solving an Industry-Wide Challenge in Wet Material Handling

In processes such as organic fertilizer production, agricultural waste treatment, and the resource utilization of urban wet waste, engineers frequently face a common challenge: how to process materials with high moisture content and viscous texture? Traditional dry crushers are highly susceptible to clogging when handling such materials, leading to a sharp decrease in efficiency and even equipment damage. Half-wet material crushers have emerged to address this need. This type of crushing equipment, specifically designed for processing materials containing a certain amount of moisture, is becoming a key piece of equipment in the pre-treatment stages of various industries due to its superior wet material processing capabilities.

I. Core Design: A Structure Born for Wet Materials

The design philosophy of the half-wet material crushers is fundamentally different from that of traditional dry crushers. Its core is a reinforced crushing chamber, internally equipped with specially designed and arranged crushing components—these may include high-strength blades, hammers, or toothed plates. These components do not simply “beat” the material but effectively decompose sticky, fibrous wet material through a combination of precise shearing, tearing, and grinding actions.

The most critical innovation lies in its anti-clogging design. The equipment is typically equipped with intelligent anti-clogging mechanisms, such as a transmission system with an instant reversal function. When sensors detect an abnormal increase in torque (potentially indicating a blockage), the system automatically commands the rotor to briefly reverse, releasing the jammed material, before resuming normal rotation. Additionally, the streamlined internal design of the crushing chamber, the application of special coatings, and optimized blade clearances all aim to minimize material adhesion and accumulation.

II. Working Principle: Three Steps to Efficient Crushing

The operation of this equipment is a continuous, efficient physical crushing process:

1. Feeding and Initial Dispersion:The semi-wet material enters the crushing chamber through a wide feed inlet. At this stage, the rotating components first provide a certain degree of stirring and dispersion, preventing material clumping.
2. High-Speed Shearing and Grinding:The material is captured by the high-speed rotating blades or hammers and flung towards the toothed plates or liners around the chamber periphery under enormous centrifugal force. During this process, the material is subjected simultaneously to impact force from the rotating components, shearing force between the material and fixed components, and friction and collision among material particles themselves. This multi-force action ensures effective crushing even for wet straw or kitchen waste with high fiber content and toughness.
3. Sieving and Discharge Control: The crushed material then reaches the discharge area. If the equipment is equipped with a screening system, fine particles that meet the size standard will pass through the screen openings and be discharged, while larger particles will be retained in the crushing chamber and continue to be impacted until they reach the required size. Users can precisely control the particle size distribution of the final product by changing screens with different mesh sizes to suit different subsequent needs, such as composting, granulation, or direct field application.

III. Application Scenarios: A Cross-Industry Solution

The powerful adaptability of the half-wet material crushers makes it shine in multiple fields:

• Organic Fertilizer Production:Crushing mixed raw materials like livestock manure, wet straw, and biogas residue to achieve uniform particle size, greatly promoting the efficiency of subsequent aerobic fermentation.
• Agricultural Waste Treatment:Processing post-harvest materials with high moisture content like corn stalks and vine crops, creating conditions for feed processing, substrate production, or direct field return.
• Environmental Protection Industry:Crushing source-separated urban wet waste (kitchen waste) to reduce volume, homogenize the material, and provide ideal feedstock for anaerobic digestion or aerobic composting.
• Food and Chemical Industries:Processing food processing by-products or chemical intermediates with certain moisture content to meet specific process requirements for raw material particle size.

IV. Advantage Summary: Why Choose It?

Choosing a half-wet material crushers means opting for an efficient, stable, and low-maintenance solution for wet material processing:

1. Excellent Anti-Clogging Performance:Fundamentally addresses the biggest pain point in wet material handling, ensuring continuous and stable operation of the production line.
2. High Processing Efficiency:Powerful drive and optimized crushing mechanism ensure more material is processed per unit time.
3. Easy Maintenance:Modular design and easily disassembled structure make routine maintenance tasks like blade replacement and internal cleaning simple and quick, reducing long-term operating costs.
4. Flexible and Adjustable Product Size:Through simple configuration adjustments, it can produce materials of different fineness, making it a versatile and highly adaptable machine.

From Primary Crushing to Finished Granules: A Complete Organic Workflow

The half-wet material crushers is a vital first step in preparing heterogeneous organic waste for the organic fertilizer fermentation process. By breaking down high-moisture, fibrous materials, it creates a homogeneous feedstock ideal for efficient aerobic decomposition. This optimized fermentation composting technology for organic fertilizer is then implemented using advanced fermentation composting turning technology. Within a trough-type aerobic fermentation composting technology system, specialized turning equipment such as the chain compost turning machine, hydraulic trough compost turner, and large wheel compost turner ensure optimal aeration and temperature control.

Following complete stabilization, the composted material is integrated into the final production stage. The complete suite of equipments required for biofertilizer production then takes over. This often includes a disc granulation production line, which shapes the finished compost into uniform, market-ready pellets using equipment like a rotary drum granulator. This integrated system—from initial size reduction and optimized biological decomposition to final shaping—demonstrates a seamless industrial workflow for transforming challenging organic waste into valuable, high-quality soil amendments.

Conclusion

The half-wet material crushers is more than just a machine; it is a critical technological node connecting organic waste to resource recovery. It transforms troublesome wet, sticky materials into uniform raw materials that are easy to process further, clearing obstacles for multiple links in the circular economy. As global emphasis on the resource recovery of organic waste continues to increase, this efficient and reliable specialized crushing equipment will undoubtedly play an increasingly important role in sustainable agriculture, green industry, and urban environmental management, helping us more efficiently transform “waste” into “resources.”

Fertilizer Granulation: Key Points in Raw Material Selection and Pretreatment

fertilizer granulator Dec 22, 2025

In modern fertilizer production, granulation is a crucial process that converts powdered raw materials into uniform granules. The disc granulator and rotary drum granulator are two common types of equipment. Although they differ in design, they share similar basic requirements for raw materials. The selection and pretreatment of raw materials directly determine granulation efficiency, product quality, and equipment lifespan. When choosing between these two types of equipment, global fertilizer producers must pay special attention to particle size, moisture content, adhesiveness, and impurity control of raw materials to ensure stable and efficient production.
   

Core Common Requirements for Raw Materials

Whether using a disc granulator or a rotary drum granulator, raw materials must meet the following basic conditions:

First, the particle size of raw materials should be controlled within a fine range, generally recommended between 80 and 200 mesh (approximately 75–150 micrometers). Fine powdered materials provide a larger contact area between particles, facilitating stable bonding during granulation. Overly coarse particles (e.g., larger than 1 millimeter in diameter) or lumpy impurities can not only affect the uniformity of granules but may also cause equipment clogging or wear.

Second, the moisture content of raw materials is a critical factor for successful granulation. Typically, the base moisture content of raw materials should be maintained between 10% and 20%, with specific values varying depending on the type of fertilizer. If the moisture content is too low, granules may not form properly, requiring the addition of water or binders through the equipment’s spraying system. Excessive moisture, on the other hand, can lead to clumping and uneven granulation. Stable moisture content is essential for ensuring the strength and durability of the final granules.

Additionally, raw materials must possess a certain degree of natural adhesiveness or achieve the required bonding effect through the addition of binders. Completely non-adhesive inert powders (such as quartz sand) cannot be directly used for granulation. Commonly used binders include water, bentonite, starch, cellulose derivatives, and ammonium phosphate solutions. The choice of binder depends on the type of fertilizer: organic fertilizers often use bentonite, while compound fertilizers typically employ ammonium phosphate solutions.

Finally, the raw materials must not contain hard, sharp impurities such as metal fragments or stones. These impurities can not only scratch the inner walls of the equipment (especially the wear-resistant linings of discs and rollers), but may also damage transmission components and affect the normal operation of the equipment.

Types of Fertilizer Raw Materials Suitable for Use

Both disc granulators and rotary drum granulators are suitable for a variety of fertilizer raw materials, including organic fertilizers, inorganic fertilizers, and compound fertilizers.

Organic fertilizer raw materials primarily include decomposed and fermented livestock manure (such as chicken manure, cow manure), agricultural waste (such as straw powder, sawdust, rice husk powder, fungal residue, biogas residue, and distillers’ grains), and harmless-treated municipal sludge. These materials typically exhibit strong natural adhesiveness and generally do not require the addition of large amounts of binders during granulation. Forming is mainly achieved by controlling moisture content.

Inorganic fertilizer raw materials encompass nitrogen fertilizers (such as urea powder, ammonium chloride powder), phosphate fertilizers (such as superphosphate powder, monoammonium phosphate powder), and potassium fertilizers (such as potassium chloride powder, potassium sulfate powder). Compared to organic fertilizers, inorganic fertilizer raw materials have weaker adhesiveness and often require the addition of binders (such as water or ammonium phosphate solutions) for effective granulation.

Compound fertilizer raw materials are usually mixtures of organic and inorganic fertilizer powders, such as blends of urea, monoammonium phosphate, potassium chloride, and humic acid powder. Granulation of these materials requires precise adjustment of moisture content and binder dosage based on the mixing ratio to ensure granule strength and uniform nutrient distribution.

Differences in Raw Material Requirements Between the Two Types of Equipment

Although the two types of equipment share similar basic requirements for raw materials, there are subtle differences in their specific applications.

Disc granulators are better suited for processing raw materials with slightly higher viscosity and moisture content, such as well-rotted organic fertilizer. However, the moisture content of the raw materials should not exceed 22%, as excessive moisture will cause the raw materials to clump together on the inner wall of the disc, affecting the discharge efficiency.

Rotary drum granulators have broader adaptability to raw materials and can handle mixtures with moderate adhesiveness, such as compound fertilizer raw materials. However, rotary drum granulators require greater uniformity in particle size to avoid the deposition of coarse particles inside the drum. By adjusting the rotation speed and tilt angle of the drum, the granulator can adapt to raw materials with different adhesiveness, enhancing granulation flexibility.

Key Steps in Raw Material Pretreatment

To ensure smooth granulation, raw material pretreatment is crucial. First, lumpy raw materials (such as decomposed organic fertilizers or caked inorganic fertilizers) must be processed through crushing equipment to achieve the required particle size. Second, drying or conditioning should be performed based on the moisture content of the raw materials: drying is necessary if moisture content is too high, while a small amount of water or binder can be mixed in advance if moisture content is too low. Next, screening is used to remove coarse particles and impurities, ensuring uniform particle size. Finally, for multi-material formulations, thorough mixing is required to ensure even distribution of nutrients and adhesiveness.

In summary, the selection and pretreatment of raw materials are fundamental to successful fertilizer granulation. Global fertilizer producers should scientifically establish raw material standards and pretreatment processes based on their product characteristics and equipment types to achieve efficient and stable production.

Wet vs. Dry Granulation: Raw Material Pathways

The choice between a rotary drum granulator and a disc granulator for wet granulation is distinct from the technology used in dry fertilizer granules compaction. Both wet methods require careful raw material preparation regarding particle size and moisture. However, the npk manufacturing process often incorporates a third pathway: dry granulation. This method utilizes a fertilizer compaction machine or fertilizer compactor as the core of a roller press granulator production line, which bypasses the need for liquid binders and is suited for different raw material properties.

Similarly, in the organic fertilizer manufacturing process, composted material can be shaped using either wet granulation (e.g., in a disc granulation production line) or dry compaction, depending on the product specification. This diversity in fertilizer production machine technology—from rotary drums for wet agglomeration to roller presses for dry compaction—highlights that raw material suitability is not a single standard but varies according to the chosen granulation principle. Understanding these distinctions allows producers to select the optimal system for their specific raw materials and final product goals.

Fertilizer Crusher: Selection and Operation Guide

fertilizer granulator Dec 22, 2025

In the fertilizer production process, crushing is a crucial step for improving raw material uniformity and facilitating subsequent granulation. Selecting the appropriate crushing equipment based on the characteristics of different raw materials is essential. The half-wet material crusher, chain crusher, cage crusher, and horizontal crusher are four common types of specialized equipment in fertilizer processing. Although they all belong to crushing machinery, they differ significantly in terms of applicable raw materials, moisture tolerance, crushing precision, and application scenarios. This article provides an in-depth analysis of their core differences, advantages, and usage considerations, offering scientific selection and operational guidance for global fertilizer producers.

Common Principles: Core Safety and Maintenance

Regardless of the type of crusher selected, some universal safety and maintenance principles must be followed. First, controlling impurities in raw materials is critical. Foreign objects such as metal blocks and stones can severely damage core components like blades, chains, or cage bars. Therefore, it is recommended to install magnetic separators and grid screens at the feed inlet for pretreatment. Second, uniform and quantitative feeding is essential for ensuring stable equipment operation, as instantaneous overload can easily cause blockages or motor failure. Additionally, different equipment has varying tolerances for raw material moisture. Exceeding the design range can lead to material adhesion, blockages, or reduced efficiency, so raw materials should be appropriately dried or conditioned based on equipment characteristics. In terms of safety, always check fasteners before operation, lubricate bearings regularly, and clean the chamber promptly after shutdown to prevent hardening and caking. Never open the machine cover for maintenance while the equipment is running to ensure personal safety.

Feature Analysis: Unique Advantages of the Four Crusher Types

The Half-Wet Material Crusher is an expert in processing high-moisture organic materials. It can effectively handle semi-wet materials with a moisture content of 20% to 60%, such as decomposed livestock manure, straw, and biogas residue, without issues of adhesion or blockage. Its core advantages lie in its high moisture tolerance and adjustable crushing granularity (1-5 mm), often achieving the desired product in a single pass without secondary processing. This equipment operates on an impact crushing principle, relying on high-speed rotating wear-resistant alloy blades to impact and tear materials. During use, it is important to ensure that the raw material moisture content does not exceed the upper limit and to regularly inspect blade wear.

The Chain Crusher is known for its simple structure and low maintenance costs. It is suitable for processing caked raw materials with a moisture content not exceeding 25%, such as hardened organic fertilizer or returned granules. Its working principle involves high-speed rotating chain groups impacting and kneading materials, achieving both crushing and mixing effects while producing uniformly sized products. It is primarily used for coarse or medium crushing but should avoid processing overly hard lumps to prevent chain deformation.

The Cage Crusher is designed specifically for fine crushing. It excels in refining dry raw materials (moisture ≤20%), producing finely ground products with particle sizes as fine as 80-120 mesh. It operates with low noise and minimal dust. Its core mechanism involves the shearing and grinding action of a double-layer cage bar rotor. It is suitable for fine crushing of inorganic fertilizer and compound fertilizer powders but is not suitable for processing coarse or hard lumps. During operation, raw material moisture must be strictly controlled, and the gaps between cage bars should be cleaned regularly to prevent blockages that could affect precision.

Horizontal crushers are widely used and essential equipment in production. They can process various dry and wet (≤15%) raw materials, and the crushing particle size (1-10 mm) can be flexibly adjusted by changing the screen. With their large-capacity crushing chamber and high output, horizontal crushers are particularly suitable for large-scale production lines. Horizontal crushers are mainly divided into two types: hammer crushers (impact crushers) and belt crushers (kneading and mixing crushers). When processing high-fiber materials, the feed speed must be controlled to prevent entanglement.

Scientific Selection: Based on Raw Materials and Process Needs

Choosing the right crusher depends on clearly understanding the characteristics of the raw materials and the process goals of the production line. If the main task is to process high-moisture organic fertilizer materials after decomposition, the half-wet material crusher is the optimal choice. For coarse crushing tasks such as breaking up caked organic fertilizer or processing returned materials, the chain crusher is more cost-effective and efficient. When the production requires refining inorganic fertilizer or compound fertilizer raw materials into fine powders, the cage crusher should be selected. For comprehensive production lines with diverse raw material types that require handling multiple materials, the versatile horizontal crusher offers the greatest flexibility and output guarantee.

In summary, understanding the core principles and applicable ranges of each type of equipment, combined with strict daily maintenance, can not only improve the efficiency and quality of fertilizer production but also significantly extend equipment lifespan, providing solid technical support for the development of global sustainable agriculture.

From Crushing to Granulation: A Systematic Production Workflow

Selecting the appropriate crushing machine is the critical first step in preparing raw materials for efficient fertilizer production. This choice—whether a half-wet crusher for moist organics or a cage crusher for fine powders—directly impacts the quality of the mixed feed. In a complete npk fertilizer production line, the uniformly crushed materials are then precisely blended using a npk blending machine before entering the core fertilizer granulation processes.

For organic fertilizer, the chain starts with a windrow composting machine, followed by crushing, before the material enters a dedicated organic fertilizer production line or bio organic fertilizer production line. Granulation is the final shaping stage across all types. This utilizes specialized fertilizer processing machine equipment: a disc granulator for shaping is central to a disc granulation production line, while a double roller press granulator forms the core of a dry roller press granulator production line. The synergy between precise size reduction, accurate blending, and advanced granulation technologies ensures the efficient production of high-quality, application-ready fertilizers for global agriculture.

Comparison of organic fertilizer granulation processes: Dry method vs. Wet method

fertilizer granulator Dec 19, 2025

Granulation is a core process in organic fertilizer production, and the organic fertilizer granulator, as a key component of organic fertilizer production equipment, has a process selection that directly impacts efficiency. Dry granulation and wet granulation are the mainstream processes, each with its own focus in terms of principles, equipment, and applicable scenarios. The choice depends on the characteristics of the raw materials and production capacity.

Dry granulation does not require the addition of water or binders, relying on the inherent viscosity of the raw materials or external force for shaping. The commonly used equipment is a fertilizer compaction machine. After pretreatment by the organic fertilizer production equipment, the material is extruded into thin sheets and then crushed and screened. The advantages are the elimination of the drying step, low energy consumption, and a simple process, suitable for composted raw materials with a moisture content of 10%-15%. The disadvantages are the high requirements for raw material viscosity and weaker granule strength, making it suitable for small and medium-sized production.

Wet granulation requires spraying water or binders and relies on mechanical force for granulation. Typical equipment includes organic fertilizer disc granulators and rotary drum granulators, which are key components of large-scale organic fertilizer production equipment. After the material is agglomerated into spheres through rotation, it needs to be processed through drying and cooling units of the organic fertilizer production equipment. The advantages are good granule sphericity, high strength, and strong adaptability to raw materials; the disadvantages are the need for additional drying equipment, resulting in higher energy consumption and costs.

Key selection criteria: For small and medium-scale production, with low moisture content and good viscosity of raw materials, dry granulation organic fertilizer granulators are suitable; for large-scale production, where granule quality is a priority or the raw material moisture content is high, the wet process dominated by organic fertilizer disc granulators is more advantageous. Regardless of the process, complete pretreatment and post-treatment equipment are necessary to ensure efficiency.

From Old Batteries to New Fertilizers: The Closed-Loop Revolution in LFP Battery Recycling

fertilizer granulator Dec 19, 2025

Introduction: Innovative Opportunities from Dual Challenges

The world faces two urgent challenges: how to manage the surging volume of spent lithium iron phosphate (LFP) power batteries, and how modern agriculture can more sustainably obtain key nutrients, especially phosphorus. Excitingly, cutting-edge recycling technology is connecting these two issues, opening a new “from wheels to soil” pathway for resource circulation. Transforming phosphorus recovered from spent LFP batteries into slow-release fertilizers not only provides a new economic driver for the battery recycling industry but also offers an innovative nutrient source for agricultural green transformation. This is not only a triumph of technology but also a perfect practice of the circular economy concept at the intersection of energy and agriculture.

I. Why Choose LFP Batteries? The Unique Advantage of Recycling Phosphate Fertilizers

Among various lithium-ion batteries, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries have lower traditional recycling economic value due to their lack of expensive metals like cobalt and nickel. However, the chemical essence of their cathode material, LiFePO₄—a compound containing lithium, iron, phosphorus, and oxygen—offers a unique perspective for resource utilization. Phosphorus, as one of the three essential elements for plant growth, is a strategic resource for global food security. Traditional phosphate fertilizer production heavily relies on non-renewable phosphate rock and involves high energy consumption and pollution. Recovering phosphorus from spent LFP batteries is equivalent to opening a new, renewable phosphorus resource library in the urban “mine,” effectively alleviating dependence on natural phosphate rock and reducing the environmental footprint of mining.

II. Technical Core: How to “Release” Phosphorus Nutrients from Batteries?

The technical core of this process is converting phosphorus in LFP cathode materials into a form usable by plants. Latest research reveals several efficient and green technological pathways.

1. Selective Extraction and Transformation

Researchers have developed an in-situ advanced oxidative metallurgy technique based on the Fenton reaction. This technology uses highly oxidative hydroxyl radicals (•OH) to selectively oxidize ferrous iron (Fe²⁺) in LiFePO₄ and promote the complete release of lithium ions (Li⁺), while the phosphate group (PO₄³⁻) framework within the olivine crystal structure is preserved, forming amorphous or crystalline iron phosphate (FePO₄). The key to this process is precise reaction control to retain phosphorus in the solid product, preventing its loss or pollution by entering the solution. Subsequently, these phosphorus-rich intermediates can be further processed, for example, combined with potassium and nitrogen sources to prepare slow-release PK or compound fertilizers with different formulations.

2. Direct Functionalization and Material Design

Besides serving as a phosphorus source, recycled lithium iron phosphate (LFP) materials, due to their unique structure and chemical properties, can be directly designed into fertilizers or soil conditioners with special functions. For example, micronizing blocky LFP materials using technologies such as laser crushing can increase their specific surface area. The iron and phosphorus species on their surface can form active sites; studies have shown that these substances can not only act as catalysts for water electrolysis but also regulate the release rate of nutrients in the soil or engage in beneficial interactions with soil microorganisms. This “material-level” recycling upgrade endows waste batteries with functional attributes far exceeding their elemental value.

III. Product Advantages: How Do Slow-Release Fertilizers Benefit Agriculture?

Phosphate fertilizer products derived from LFP are not simple substitutes for traditional fertilizers; they may possess a range of enhanced properties:

· Slow-Release Features: LFP itself or derived iron phosphate compounds have low solubility in water, which aligns perfectly with the core requirement of slow-release fertilizers. Phosphorus can be slowly released through the action of soil moisture, microbial activity, or weak acids secreted by roots, avoiding the issue of rapid fixation or loss after a single application and significantly improving phosphorus use efficiency.

· Nutrient Synergy: In addition to phosphorus, the products typically contain iron. Iron is a mesonutrient required for plant chlorophyll synthesis and is beneficial for correcting iron-deficiency chlorosis. Lithium, in trace amounts, is also considered by some studies to potentially promote growth in certain crops.

· Environmental Friendliness: This process transforms toxic waste (spent batteries) into an environmentally friendly product (fertilizer). Compared to the acidic wastewater generated by traditional hydrometallurgical phosphorus recovery, the new conversion routes lean toward greener chemical processes with a lower environmental burden.

IV. Closed-Loop System: Building a Battery-Agriculture Circular Economy

This technology paints a complete picture of a circular economy: after years of powering electric vehicles, lithium iron phosphate batteries are retired and enter a recycling system; recycling plants not only extract valuable lithium but also convert phosphorus-rich cathode materials into slow-release fertilizers needed for agriculture; these fertilizers are used in the fields to promote crop growth, thereby producing food or biomass energy. Ultimately, this closed-loop system reduces mining demand, lowers environmental risks, and creates shared sustainable value for two key industries: new energy and agriculture.

Realizing this vision requires cross-sector collaboration: battery designers need to consider “design for recycling” to simplify subsequent separation; recycling technologies must balance efficiency, cost, and product purity; agronomists need to evaluate the actual performance and long-term impact of these new fertilizers in different soil and crop systems.

V. Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite the promising prospects, this path still faces challenges. First, it is crucial to ensure that the final fertilizer product is free of toxic impurities such as heavy metals (e.g., copper and aluminum that may have been introduced from other battery components). This relies on efficient and precise battery dismantling and pretreatment technologies. Second, the economic feasibility of large-scale production needs further validation, balancing collection and logistics costs, processing costs, and the market price of the final fertilizer. Finally, appropriate product standards and regulatory frameworks must be established to ensure the safety and effectiveness of these new fertilizers are scientifically verified.

Looking ahead, with the influx of spent lithium iron phosphate batteries and the growing demand for sustainable agriculture, the resource recycling pathway from spent batteries to slow-release fertilizers will attract increasing R&D and investment. This represents a profound paradigm shift: waste is no longer the end point, but the beginning of another valuable life cycle. Through technological innovation, we can not only solve the e-waste problem but also open up a new, circular, and renewable nutrient pathway to nourish our land.

From Battery Recycling to Precision Fertilizer Manufacturing

The upcycling of lithium iron phosphate batteries into specialized fertilizers presents a novel input for the conventional npk fertilizer production process. To integrate this recovered phosphate into a market-ready product, it must enter the mainstream npk fertilizer manufacturing process. This begins with precise formulation in a npk blending machine to combine it with nitrogen and potassium sources. The uniformly mixed powder then undergoes fertilizer granulation, a core stage that determines the product’s physical properties.

Advanced npk granulation machine technology is essential here. Depending on the desired granule characteristics, equipment such as a disc granulator machine for wet granulation or a fertilizer roller press machine for dry compaction can be employed within a complete npk fertilizer production line. The choice of this npk fertilizer granulator technology directly impacts the NPK compound fertilizer production capacity and the final product’s slow-release profile. This integration of cutting-edge material recycling with established npk fertilizer production technology exemplifies a sophisticated circular economy, transforming industrial by-products into valuable, intelligent agricultural inputs through precise and scalable manufacturing engineering.

From waste materials to multi-functional fertilizers

fertilizer granulator Dec 19, 2025

Introduction: Compost is More Than Just Fertilizer

Composting, an ancient yet modern organic waste conversion technology, has long seen its final products evolve beyond the simple concept of “mature organic matter.” Through different processing techniques and formulation designs, compost can be transformed into various fertilizer products with diverse forms and functions, meeting the varied needs from field agriculture to precision horticulture, and from soil improvement to targeted nutrition. Understanding these derived fertilizer types and the scientific principles behind them is crucial for agricultural producers to choose suitable fertilizers and achieve efficient, sustainable cultivation.

Part I: The Four Major Forms of Compost-Based Fertilizers

1. The Basic Form: Mature Bulk Organic Fertilizer

This is the most primitive and purest form of compost. After complete maturation, organic waste is used directly without additional processing. It appears dark brown or black, with a loose texture resembling fertile forest topsoil. It is rich in humus—a stable organic matter that significantly improves soil structure, increasing soil porosity and water retention. Simultaneously, it contains abundant beneficial microbial communities and slowly released basic nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This fertilizer is particularly suitable as a base fertilizer for field crops (e.g., wheat, corn) or as a soil amendment for orchards and vegetable gardens. When incorporated into the soil through tillage, it lays a healthy foundation for crop growth.

2. The Advanced Form: Granular Organic Fertilizer

To meet the needs of modern mechanized fertilization, mature compost can be converted into uniform granules through granulation processes (e.g., disc granulation, drum granulation). These granules are typically 2-6 mm in diameter, with moderate strength, facilitating transportation, storage, and precise application via seeders or spreaders. Granulation not only reduces dust during application but also controls nutrient release rate through physical form, achieving longer-lasting effects. A more advanced product is the “organic-inorganic compound fertilizer,” which incorporates fast-acting chemical fertilizers (e.g., urea) during granulation, perfectly combining the soil-improving function of organic fertilizer with the quick-release properties of chemical fertilizer.

3. The Functional Form: Bio/Functional Organic Fertilizer

This represents an intelligent upgrade of composting technology. By inoculating mature compost with specific functional microorganisms (e.g., phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria, potassium-solubilizing bacteria, biocontrol agents), the resulting “bio-organic fertilizer” not only provides nutrients but also mobilizes fixed phosphorus and potassium in the soil or suppresses soil-borne diseases. Another type, “functional organic fertilizer,” is enriched with biostimulants like humic acid, seaweed extracts, and amino acids, which directly stimulate crop root growth and enhance stress resistance. These fertilizers are “value-added” products widely used in high-value cash crops and protected agriculture.

4. The Refined Form: Organic Water-Soluble Fertilizer

Through physical or chemical methods, soluble organic components (mainly small-molecule humic acid, fulvic acid, and amino acids) are extracted from mature compost to produce liquid or powdered water-soluble fertilizers. This fertilizer type has high nutrient concentration and fast dissolution, fully compatible with modern drip irrigation, sprinkler irrigation, and fertigation systems. It can be rapidly absorbed by crops and is especially suitable for quick nutritional supplementation during critical growth stages (e.g., flowering and fruit setting), making it an ideal choice for precision agriculture.

Part II: Two Technological Pathways: Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Composting

The essence of composting is the microbial decomposition of organic matter, divided into two major technological pathways based on oxygen dependence.

Aerobic Composting: The Mainstream Efficient Process

Aerobic composting relies on aerobic microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes) to decompose organic matter in the presence of oxygen. This process releases significant heat, rapidly raising the pile temperature to 55-65°C within days. The high temperature not only accelerates decomposition but also effectively kills pathogens and weed seeds. Aerobic composting has a short cycle (typically 20-40 days), produces minimal odor during the process (mainly carbon dioxide and water), and yields stable product quality, making it the mainstream process for large-scale organic fertilizer production. Its success hinges on maintaining pile porosity, ensuring oxygen supply through turning or forced aeration.

Anaerobic Composting: Harvesting Both Energy and Fertilizer

Anaerobic composting occurs under strictly oxygen-free conditions, led by anaerobic microorganisms like acidogenic bacteria and methanogens. This process does not generate high temperatures, decomposition is slow, and the cycle is long (typically 3-6 months). However, it has a unique advantage: producing biogas (mainly methane), a renewable clean energy source usable for cooking, lighting, or power generation. Therefore, anaerobic composting (especially biogas projects) is popular in rural areas and small farms, achieving the triple goal of “waste treatment – fertilizer production – energy recovery.” However, it requires strict sealing, and poor management can lead to malodorous gases like hydrogen sulfide.

Part III: How to Choose the Right Composting Pathway and Product?

The choice of composting method and final product depends on specific conditions and objectives:

· For large-scale farms or organic fertilizer plants: Aerobic composting is the preferred choice for its high efficiency and high degree of product commercialization. Granular or functional fertilizers can be produced based on market needs.

· For resource-limited rural households or small ecological farms: Anaerobic composting (e.g., household biogas digesters) can treat waste while providing cooking gas, with biogas slurry and residue being high-quality liquid organic fertilizers.

· For protected agriculture and high-value crop growers: Consider using functional bio-organic fertilizers or organic water-soluble fertilizers to achieve precise, efficient nutrient management and soil health maintenance.

· For field crop producers: Basic mature bulk fertilizer or granular organic fertilizer are cost-effective options that can effectively improve soil and lay the foundation for long-term sustainable production.

Integrated Fertilizer Manufacturing: From Composting to Granulation

Modern fertilizer production encompasses two distinct yet complementary pathways. The organic fertilizer manufacturing process, rooted in advanced composting, transforms waste into stable humus. To create a commercial product, this compost is often shaped using equipment like those in a disc granulation production line. Conversely, the conventional npk fertilizer production process follows a different route. It begins with chemical synthesis and precise blending, followed by granulation. Here, technologies like drum granulation using a rotary drum granulator are common in a standard npk production line.

The choice of granulation method is critical. While wet processes like drum granulation dominate for many NPK blends, alternative technologies exist. The principle of fertilizer granules compaction is employed in dry granulation, utilizing a fertilizer compaction machine or fertilizer compactor as the core of a roller press granulator production line. This diversity in the npk manufacturing process highlights the industry’s adaptability. Whether starting from organic waste or synthetic raw materials, modern integrated systems select the optimal processing and shaping technologies to produce efficient, market-ready fertilizers that support sustainable global agriculture.

Disc granulator suitable raw materials: What materials are good for granulation?

fertilizer granulator Dec 18, 2025

The disc granulator is key equipment in fertilizer production. Thanks to its simple structure, easy operation, and strong adaptability, it’s widely used for granulating various fertilizers like organic fertilizer, compound fertilizer, and biofertilizer.
1.Organic Fertilizer Raw Materials
Livestock manure (chicken, pig, cattle manure, etc.). Agricultural waste (straw, rice husks, mushroom residue, etc.). Municipal sludge (sewage treatment plant sludge, food waste, etc.). Humic acid materials (weathered coal, lignite, etc.)
2.Inorganic and Compound Fertilizer Raw Materials
NPK compound fertilizers (granulated mixtures like urea, monoammonium phosphate, potassium chloride). Micronutrient fertilizers (containing iron, zinc, boron, etc.). Slow-release and controlled-release fertilizers (coated fertilizers, sulfur-coated urea, etc.). Adjusting the disc’s tilt angle, rotation speed, and water spray optimizes particle roundness and strength.

3.Bio-organic and Functional Fertilizers
Microbial fertilizers (with functional bacteria like Bacillus subtilis, phosphate-solubilizing bacteria). Organic-inorganic compound fertilizers (combining organic matter with chemical fertilizer for better efficiency). Soil conditioners (materials that improve soil, like humic acid, silicon-calcium fertilizer).
4.Raw Material Requirements
While disc granulators are adaptable, raw materials still need to meet these conditions:
Suitable moisture content (usually 20%-40%; too high causes sticking, too low makes granulation hard).
Adequate stickiness (binders like bentonite or lignin can be added to adjust this).
Proper particle size (powder or fine particles granulate more easily).
Overall, whether it’s traditional organic fertilizer or newer functional fertilizers, the disc granulator can meet production needs. It’s an ideal piece of equipment for fertilizer processing.

Dual-effect in one: A new chapter opens in organic fertilizer granulation machine

fertilizer granulator Dec 18, 2025

In the field of organic fertilizer production, technological innovation has always been the core driving force for industry progress. A new type two in one organic fertilizer granulator that integrates mixing and granulation processes is quietly changing the traditional production model, bringing a brand-new solution to the industry.

This new two-in-one equipment innovatively integrates two major functions into a single machine, enabling materials to be continuously mixed and granulated within the same working unit, simplifying the process and improving overall consistency.

In terms of granulation technology, the most common organic fertilizer production equipment on the market is mainly divided into flat die pelleting machines and ring die pelleting machines. This new two-in-one equipment does not simply replace either of them, but rather draws on the design essence of different granulation technologies. Its emergence means that producers can reduce equipment investment and maintenance costs, while reducing energy consumption and space occupation during the production process. For modern fertilizer companies pursuing production efficiency and resource optimization, this is undoubtedly a highly attractive option.

In conclusion, this new type organic fertilizer production equipment, integrating mixing and granulation, represents a shift in organic fertilizer equipment towards greater intensification, efficiency, and intelligence. It serves as a powerful complement to traditional technologies such as flat die pelleting machines and ring die pelleting machines, and represents a new approach to future production line construction.