Exploring How Bio-Gel® YieldArmor™ Improves Water Retention in TerraNu® K+ Fertilizer
We set out to test whether Bio-Gel® YieldArmor, a fertilizer coating, could enhance the water-holding ability of TerraNu K+ granules. Our goal was to see how much water the coated granules could absorb and retain compared to uncoated ones, using a consistent lab-based method.
Applying the Bio-Gel YieldArmor Coating:
To begin, we coated TerraNu K+ fertilizer granules with Bio-Gel YieldArmor at a rate of 2% by weight. This coated product was then compared to uncoated TerraNu and to Bio-Gel polymers on their own.
Testing Water Retention: Step-by-step
1. Sample Prep:
- For Bio-Gel DG and Bio-Gel YieldArmor polymers, we used 1 gram of each.
- For the TerraNu and Bio-Gel YieldArmor-coated TerraNu samples, we used 10 grams
All samples were placed in filter paper inside lab strainers.
2. Saturation:
- The setups were submerged in water until fully saturated. We recorded the saturated weight.
3. Hydration Time:
- The samples remained submerged for 30 minutes to allow for full absorption and swelling.
4. Drainage:
- After 30 minutes, we lifted the strainers and let the excess water drain off naturally by gravity.
5. Final Weigh-In:
- Once drained, we weighed the samples again. The amount of water retained was calculated by subtracting the dry weight from the post-drainage weight, and then adjusting for the sample size.
Results:
| Substrate | grams of water/g of substrate |
|---|---|
| 2% Bio-Gel YieldArmor on TerraNu K+ | 0.33 |
| TerraNu K+ | 0.18 |
- “Soil Sponge” Effect: Adding YieldArmor to TerraNu transforms the carbon fertilizer into a water-holding sponge, allowing the carbon fertilizer matrix to soak up, retain, and release far more moisture than TerraNu alone.
- Stronger Drought Protection: With more water stored in the soil, crops remain hydrated longer, thereby retaining their health during periods of water stress.
- More Efficient Fertilizer Use: YieldArmor slows nutrient loss by holding fertilizers in place, releasing them gradually—like a sponge squeezing out water—so plants get a steadier food supply.
- Healthier, Higher-Performing Crops: Improved water and nutrient access supports deeper roots, stronger plants, and more productive crops.
- Easy, Low-Rate Application: Even small amounts of YieldArmor (around 1%) can boost soil water-holding capacity by up to 50%, delivering noticeable benefits without heavy inputs.