Protecting Water Quality with TIMAC AGRO’s N-PROCESS Technology
As agricultural practices continue to intensify, water quality is increasingly threatened by nitrate pollution, largely due to the excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers. TIMAC AGRO addresses this issue with its innovative N-Process technology, a controlled-release nitrogen solution designed to meet the nutrient needs of plants while significantly reducing nitrate losses in groundwater.
The N-PROCESS Technology
N-Process technology ensures that nitrogen is available to plants in a controlled manner, minimizing environmental impact. Here’s how it operates:
- Urea (slow release): Urea is a large molecule that must be hydrolyzed into ammonium (NH4+). This hydrolysis is facilitated by the gradual infiltration of water from the rhizosphere into the granulate.
- Ammonium (Quick Release): Ammonium (NH₄⁺) can exit the organo-calcic matrix directly. It is present in the N-Process technology and also comes from the hydrolysis of urea.
- Nitrate (NO₃⁻) : This is the most assimilable form of nitrogen for plants.
- Supplementary Nutrients: Magnesium (Mg), Sulfur (S), microbial activators, and marine calcium carbonate are included. The product is non-acidifying and promotes microbial activity.
The Nitrate Leaching Experiment
In 2016, a trial conducted by the INRA (National French Institute for Agronomical Research) and CMI used lysimeters to measure the quantity and quality of water percolating through soil. The study compared nitrate leaching from different nitrogen sources:
- Control (no nitrogen)
- Ammonium Nitrate (AN)
- N-Process Technology
The trial revealed that N-Process technology significantly reduced nitrate leaching by 28% compared to traditional ammonium nitrate fertilizer. This reduction helps lower the risk of water surface eutrophication and preserves groundwater quality.
Importance of Controlled Nitrogen Release
Excessive nitrate in water can lead to harmful algae blooms, which deplete oxygen and damage aquatic ecosystems. By adopting controlled-release technologies like N-Process, farmers can achieve sustainable crop performance while protecting the environment.
In summary, TIMAC AGRO’s N-Process technology is essential for protecting water resources by reducing nitrate washout and losses in groundwater. Its gradual release nitrogen system ensures that plants receive nutrients efficiently, minimizing environmental pollution and supporting healthier ecosystems.
TIMAC AGRO is committed to sustainable agriculture and environmental protection. Through innovative solutions like N-Process technology, we are paving the way for a greener future. Join us in our efforts to safeguard our water resources for generations to come.
These actions are in line with the @ Groupe Roullier CSR commitments to make our products more sustainable and contribute to fighting climate change.