Polymer-surfactant composition for soil and method of use
US9309462B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 9, 2011 |
| Grant date | Apr 12, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 24, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC05G5/27
- WIPO fieldBasic materials chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A composition comprising an ampholytic copolymer or terpolymer and a non ionic surfactant is shown useful in soil treatment, especially moisture and nutrient retention. The highly surface active compositions described herein self-assemble onto root zone plant surfaces and near-root soil, forming a moisture barrier that still permits root growth and oxygen flow. The inventive compositions increases the wettability of the soil allowing the soil to better absorb water at the beneficial root zone, and release it, along with essential nutrients, to the plant root structure. By targeting moisture retention in the root zone, the polymer decreases the migration potential to the root zone, producing higher irrigation efficiency for optimal plant growth with lower treatment levels. Different dilutions of the composition determine the final settling location of the composition, and the formation of the barrier. The compositions may be applied through known means, such as an irrigation system.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.