IFDC Report, Volume 4, No. 2
Abstract
This report presents the findings of various research projects conducted by the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC). The first project focuses on the economical use of complex phosphate ores through thermal treatment. The composition of rocks from different regions was studied to determine the correlation between energy requirement, sodium carbonate consumption, and the composition of phosphate-type products. The report also explores the processing of indigenous phosphate ore deposits with high levels of silica, iron, aluminium, chlorine, or carbonate, to enable their economical use. Another research project conducted in Senegal aimed to increase food production by studying the response of millet and groundnut crops to nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers. The study identified various location variables that significantly affect crop yields and fertilizer response, such as rainfall, plant density, and soil phosphorus levels. Leaching nitrogen losses from flooded rice soils were investigated to evaluate the effectiveness of different urea placement methods. The study concluded that deep placement of urea in the form of briquettes or supergranules could reduce nitrogen losses through volatilization and denitrification. Still, its efficacy may vary depending on soil type and percolation rates. The utilization of Eppawala phosphate rock in producing conventional phosphate fertilizers was examined through a joint research project between IFDC and Sri Lanka's Dienst Internationale Technische Hulp (DITH). The technical evaluation of the rock and its potential as a phosphate fertilizer was assessed through mineralogical and chemical analysis and phosphoric acid tests. Finally, the report discusses the cooperative agreement between IFDC and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to improve food production in developing countries through fertilizer research and training. The research program focuses on nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers' efficiency under different soil conditions. In contrast, the training program aims to increase the availability of trained manpower in fertilizer production, distribution, marketing, and use.
Description
Keywords
Rice, Groundnuts, Phosphate fertilizers