AU2012233010B2 - Improvements in and relating to soil treatments - Google Patents

Abstract

Abstract This invention provides substantially improved soil treatment compositions as a fertiliser and in granular form. The compositions include at least one soil treatment component. The composition is characterised by also including a sugar. The sugar is an inverted sugar. The sugar is used as a binding agent for the treatment components and to assist dispersion of the components when applied to soil. The sugar is used alone or in conjunction with other binding/dispersing agents. The treatment components are selected to address either or both the nutritional needs of plants for the benefit of which the composition is applied and to improve the soil structure and condition. Elemental sulphur is used as a soil treatment component. Other plant nutrients and/or soil conditioners providing agronomic benefit are included as soil treatment components. The soil treatment components are optimised by fine grinding to predetermined particle sizes for increased availability in soils and to suit differing soil types and conditions.

Description

IMPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING TO SOIL TREATMENTS

Technical Field

This invention relates to improvements in and relating to soil treatments.

In particular, this invention is directed to providing a substantially improved fertiliser composition. In addition, the composition is further provided in a granular form for ease of application. Said fertiliser composition includes elemental sulphur finely ground to increase the availability in soils, yet at the same time effect a composition with reduced explosivity. Further, the composition also includes an agent to assist with binding. The agent is selected such that whether the composition is applied solely as an elemental sulphur composition in conjunction with the binding agent or is applied as a composition including sulphur and binding agent along with other active agents, such as other plant nutrients, the binding also aids with/acts as a dispersant and provides additional agronomic benefit to the composition where relevant.

It is envisaged the invention will be applicable to any situation, for example agricultural, horticultural, forestry, commercial, industrial or domestic situations where soil treatments are required. However, the invention may have applications outside this field.

Background Art

In any agricultural, horticultural, forestry, commercial, industrial or domestic situation where at least optimal growth of vegetation is required or desired a number of factors interplay. Not the least of such factors is soil type/structure and nutrient availability. Soil structure has a major influence on water and air movement, biological activity, root growth, seedling emergence and plant retention. Soil structure is determined by how individual soil granules clump and thus the arrangement of soil pores between them.

Soils also differ in nutrient profile. Fertilisers, as nutritional compounds in organic or inorganic form, are given to plants to promote growth. Accordingly, fertilisers are 1 routinely applied to such soils to achieve the nutrient profile desired to sustain plant growth for harvest and/or to provide nutrients to grazing stock animals.

Fertilisers may be water-soluble (instant release) or relatively insoluble (controlled/sustained/timed release). However, whilst fertilisers may be applied to meet nutritional needs of plants, they are less likely to be tailor-made in respect of particle distribution to suit the soils to which they are applied. Further, whilst various applications may be tailored with respect to the dispersal as fast, slow, medium release products over time, they are typically less tailored in respect of particle distribution to suit climatic conditions as required.

This can lead to the problem of over-fertilisation which is primarily associated with the use of artificial fertilisers and results from the massive quantities applied and the destructive nature of chemical fertilisers on soil nutrient holding structures. The high solubility of chemical fertilisers also exacerbates their tendency to degrade ecosystems.

There are also problems associated with storage and application of some soil treatment products and fertilisers. For example, fine elemental sulphur is both explosive and a health hazard.

For these reasons, it is important to know the soil type, the nutrient content of the soil and nutrient requirements of the crop, so that desired outcomes can be carefully balanced with the application of soil conditioning and/or fertiliser products. By careful monitoring of soil, climatic conditions and crop requirements, wastage of expensive fertilisers and potential costs of cleaning up any pollution created can be avoided.

In addition, it is important to provide the required nutrient in a form that is not hazardous to handle, store or transport; is able to be applied having particle sizes which maximise uptake by plants from the soils and can disperse efficiently into the soil for the relevant take-up by plants, whilst potentially reducing their build-up in soils, or leaching from the soils in run-off; 2

Elemental sulphur does not have the same negative affects on the environment that sulphate fertilsers do. In addition, when finely ground the elemental sulphur has greater availability profiles in soils. When considering these positive aspects of using elemental sulphur, it is prudent to remember that elemental sulphur is also explosive. Therefore, it is with these aspects in mind that effecting a composition with reduced explosivity, reduced environmental issues, improved availability of the sulphur in soils, is worthy of consideration. However, it is also important to consider the elementals sulphur dust that results from fine grinding of the elemental sulphur. Therefore, it is necessary to consider at least one additional component in any soil treatment composition including finely ground elemental sulphur. The composition therefore is improved with the inclusion of an agent to assist with binding. The agent is reasonably one that is selected such that whether the composition is applied solely as an elemental sulphur composition in conjunction with the binding agent or is applied as a composition including elemental sulphur and binding agent along with other active agents, such as other plant nutrients, the binding also acts/aids as a dispersant. Where the agent is one that can be used to assist with a timed, delayed or rapid release of the elemental sulphur on to or into the soil, then the soil treatment composition may be tailored to specific needs of the soil and nutrient requirements. Where the agent, actives and overall composition is able to be manufactured with actives ground across a range of preferred particle sizes, with moisture controlled as required, and formulation techniques adapted to meet specific soil requirements, the potential exists for the creation of soil treatment compositions for use with a range of soils, for a range of nutritional profile requirements and having at least any one of delayed, controlled, sustained, boosted release characteristics of components in the soil treatment composition or granules made therefrom.

While the present invention has a number of potentially realisable applications, it is in relation to problems associated with existing soil treatment and fertilising systems that the present invention was developed. More specifically, it was with regard to the issues of providing a treatment system more appropriately tailored to specifically suit the specific application, soil conditions and climatic conditions, including temperature. 3

It was also developed with safety and health issues typically associated with such systems, that the present invention was developed.

Finally, it was having regard to the need to provide a treatment system that would easily disperse in the soil, provide the desired effect, had sufficient compressive strength to ensure that the product did not break-up during storage, transport and handling and that would minimise waste of product when applied.

It would be useful therefore, to have a soil treatment system that, having regard to any one or more of the following: 1. Could be tailor-made to specifically suit the specific application, soil conditions and climatic conditions including temperature; and 2. Considered and improved on safety and health issues of existing systems; and 3. Was effective at mobilising nutrients and/or soil enhancing components so that good plant growth could be achieved with lower nutrient densities; and 4. Effected less wastage of nutrients and/or soil enhancing components through run-off, air dispersal and so forth; and 5. Minimised the build-up of products in soils; and 6. Released nutrients at a determined, more consistent rate, helping to avoid boom-and-bust patterns; and 7. Helped, where applicable, to retain soil moisture, reducing the stress to plants and soil structures due to temporary moisture stress; and 8. Contributed where appropriate to improving the soil structure; and 9. Minimised the possibility of "burning" plants with concentrated chemicals due to an over supply of some nutrients; and 10. Provided a more cost effective alternative to present systems employed; including costs of handling, transportation and application costs, and 11. Provided a consistent product, so that accurate application of nutrients to match soil type and plant production was possible; and 12. Would be easy to use. 4

It would therefore be advantageous to have an invention that offered at least some, if not all, of the potential advantages of the above proposed treatment system. It is therefore an object of the present invention to consider the above problems and provide at least one solution which addresses a plurality of these problems.

It is another object of the present invention to at least provide the public with a useful choice or alternative system.

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only. It should be appreciated that variations to the described embodiments are possible and would fall within the scope of the present invention.

Disclosure of Invention

This invention is directed to provide a soil treatment system. The soil treatment system is preferably directed to improving soil condition and/or soil-nutrient availability for plants. The term treatment as used in this specification preferably will involve a knowledge of the condition of the soil; preferably this may be determined via prior analysis and involve administration to the soil, or via a regimen of applications, of a particular preferred composition which aids in improving at least the soil condition (including structure) and/or soil nutrient content, for plant benefit.

Preferably, the soil treatment system involves the use of a sulphur or sulphur-based fertiliser. However, this invention may also involve other single actives, alone or in combination. For example, the composition as described herein may include predominantly elemental sulphur. Alternatively, the composition may be a mix of elemental sulphur and at least one other active (such as Reactive Phosphate Rock (RPR), or another plant nutrient in appropriate form); or, the composition may be predominantly such other single active as determined is required for application to address the nutritional needs of the plants, for the benefit of which it is applied, or to improve the soil. 5

Preferably, the sulphur based fertiliser also includes bentonite. Bentonite is an appropriate binding agent. Bentonite also facilitates dispersion of the elemental suphur into the soil. However, other suitable binding agents and/or dispersing agents may be used with the present invention and may be dictated by the active forming the basis of the soil treatment system being applied in varying circumstances. Therefore, the reference throughout this description to elemental sulphur and/or bentonite should not be seen as limiting the scope of this invention.

Preferably, the sulphur based fertiliser includes finely ground sulphur. It is noted that the sulphur is finely ground to particle sizes finer than the sulphur in a range of other sulphur based fertilisers tested. The particle size range in the fertiliser can be easily adjusted to meet requirements based on soil type, soil particle size, soil nutrient profile, and other conditions environmentally including physical, chemical and climatic conditions and requirements.

The particle size range of the sulphur component preferably includes a fine portion (<20 micron) which gives the fastest reactivity when the elemental sulphur is applied on to and/or into the soil. The fine portion of <20 micron particles may be in the range of 2030% of the total elemental sulphur. However, more or less fine elemental sulphur particles may be included in the active component composition, depending on the geographical area and/or soils to which the treatment is applied.

However, a typical sulphur particle size range mix in the application may be between 1000 micron to less than 75 micron (including a proportion of particles less than 20 micron as previously referenced). Again, the range in any soil treatment may be varied depending on the geographical area and/or soils to which the treatment is applied.

Preferably, the sulphur based fertiliser, including the sulphur/bentonite fertiliser, is formed into granules for application to soils.

It is noted from the testing of granules of the present invention, they have been found to 6 disperse faster than other prior art fertiliser granules tested. However, the rate of dispersion of the granule (or individual components within the granule) may be varied to suit various applications, specific soils having regard for the nutrient requirements and/or the condition of the soil and/or the climatic and other environmental factors of the site.

For the purpose of the present invention the term granule shall mean any small blocks of molded and/or compressed material and/or otherwise formed and shall include varyingly shaped and sized pellets, fragments, briquettes and so forth. The use of the term granule should therefore not be seen as limiting this invention. Granules may also be formed subject to use of the appropriate technique.

It should be appreciated that this invention is described as including a full a range as possible of ways to describe the "holding together" of sulphur particles using an appropriate binding agent, or combination of binding agents as referred to further in the specification. Therefore, any form of granule, pellet and so forth is considered to be included in the scope of the present invention. It should be appreciated that such terms are applied in a more general sense to refer to a granule or like form formed under low or high pressure. Pastille or prill may also be used when referring to granular/pellet forms, even though the methods of production of pastilles and prills is not typically those as would be applied in the formation of granular or pellitised forms.

Pressing methods are preferably applied in the formation of the granule form of the product. Any suitable press method may be developed or adapted for use in achieving the present invention.

It is important to note that the granules/pellets can be formed by a variety of high pressure and low pressures means.

High pressure methods include use of a chilsonator (as is described further in the specification), or via the use of a die pellet press, for example. However, any other high pressure methods may be used or adapted for use with the present invention. Low 7 pressure methods include pan granulation and tube agglomeration. However, again, these are examples and other low pressure methods may be used or adapted for use with the present invention.

Preferably, the granule is specifically tailor-made in respect of the particle distribution of its components to suit various applications, soil and climatic conditions (including temperature) as required. The granule may have varying composition depending on the components of the granule and the application it is designed for.

Preferably, the granule is specifically tailor-made in respect of particle size and/or surface area of its components to suit various applications, soil and climatic conditions (including temperature) as required. The granule may have varying particle sizes within its composition depending on the components of the granule and the application it is designed for.

Preferably, the particle size is optimised by fine-grinding and classification to suit differing soil conditions and the purpose for which it is being used.

Preferably, the granule, following application, is required to make the components of the granule available within or on the soil. To achieve this, the granule preferably disperses at a preferred rate.

Preferably the dispersion of the granule enables the components of the granule to be available to plants and the soil.

However, the individual components of the granule may vary in the rate at which each will be directly available for the specific need. For example one component may be immediately available for use - whether as a nutrient or soil conditioner; while others may be released in the soil over time, or at different rates, as a boosted release, or with the onset of particular climatic or soil temperature/conditions, as required. 8

In some embodiments of the invention, the granule may be prepared to enable either or both immediate dispersion of the granule and immediate release of the granule components into or onto the soil.

In other embodiments, the granule may be prepared to enable delayed dispersion of the granule and controlled release of any or all of the granule components over time, or following a set period after application of the granules, or in preferred conditions.

In yet further embodiments, the granule may be prepared to enable immediate dispersion of the granule and then controlled release of any or all of the granule components over time, or following a set period after application of the granules, or in preferred conditions. For example, in some embodiments of the present invention, the granules may be coated to delay dispersion of the granule per se or delay release of a specific component. In other embodiments, the granule may be formulated to disperse in water within a few minutes yet delay release of a component.

In this case, the granule is simply dispersing, but it should be appreciated the availability of the particular nutrient component is then determined by the specific solubility of that individual nutrient component.

Preferably however, the granule does not break-up during storage, transportation and application. To achieve this, the method of manufacture is directed to producing a granule having a preferred compressive strength (or crush-strength). The compressive strength is directed to ensure that the granule which results is less likely to breakdown during handling, transportation or application.

Preferably, the granules are uniform in size. The uniform sized granules contribute to more accurate spreading. However, the granules may be varyingly shaped.

Preferably, the granules are colour coded to ensure the correct formulation is applied to a particular treatment site, for a particular end result. 9

It is important to produce granules with optimum storage, handling and application characteristics under a full range of conditions.

Preferably, the granules are produced to suit both New Zealand North Island and South Island conditions.

Preferably, the granules and the granule components are adapted to be tailor made to suit specific soil types in particular countries and for particular soil types in particular regions within said countries, based on the soil type and quality in specific locations.

Preferably, the inverted sugar is used and operates as a dispersing agent. The use of inverted sugar, as a water-dispersible binder in fertiliser granules is, to the knowledge of the applicant, previously unknown and hence original.

Preferably, a water dispersible inverted sugar is incorporated in to the granule/granule as a binding agent and as such is adapted to control dust from the finely ground particles of the granule’s soil treatment components.

When inverted, sugar takes on a “wax-like” property and remains in this wax-like form for a significant period of time.

Inverted or invert sugar syrup is a mixture of glucose and fructose. It is obtained via one method by splitting sucrose into these two components. Compared with its precursor, sucrose, inverted sugar is sweeter and its products tend to remain moister and are less prone to crystallisation.

In technical terms, sucrose is a disaccharide, which means that it is a molecule derived from two simple sugars monosaccharides. In the case of sucrose, these monosaccharide building blocks are fructose and glucose. The splitting of sucrose is a hydrolysis reaction. The hydrolysis can be induced simply by heating an aqueous solution of sucrose but, more commonly, catalysts are added to accelerate the conversion. The biological catalysts 10 2012233010 22 Apr 2017 20 5 that are added are called sucrases (in animals) and invertases (in plants). Sucrases and invertases are types of glycoside hydrolase enzymes. Acid, such as occurs in lemon juice or cream of tartar, also accelerates the conversion of sucrose to invert.

As previously stated, when inverted, sugar takes on a “wax-like” property and remains in 10 this wax-like form for a significant period of time. This gives the granules of the present invention significant potentially realisable advantages in so far as: 1) Any dust is contained in the granule/granule allowing for safe handling and application. This is particularly important for granules of finely ground elemental sulphur where the sulphur is potentially explosive, particularly as sulphur fines; 15 and 2) Soil organisms will consume the inverted sugars, which helps to release the finely ground and bound fine sulphur particles; and 3) Just as in jellies and types of candies that tend to dry out, inversion is beneficial. The invert sugar is a humectant that tends to retain moisture in the finished product; and 4) Inverted sugars become hydrophilic over time.

Golden syrup is an ideal inverted sugar that retains stickiness for extended period of time. 25 Golden syrup is a pale treacle. It is a thick, amber-colored form of inverted sugar syrup, made in the process of refining sugar cane juice into sugar, or by treatment of a sugar solution with acid.

In cane sugar refining, golden syrup is a combination of by-products at 30 the crystallization stage, but an equivalent product is made by beet sugar refiners by processing a sugar solution and breaking down the disaccharide sucrose so that some, but not all, is converted into glucose and fructose. This is either done by: a) acid hydrolysis; or, b) by adding an enzyme, such as invertase. 35 11

The glucose and fructose crystallize less readily than sucrose but give equivalent preserving properties to the solution. As a result, golden syrups are less likely to crystallize than would pure sucrose syrup. For example, golden syrup smeared on plate for 6-7 days had not crystalized.

Any sugar product containing inverted sugars will work to varying extents. It comes down to how effective the product is and the cost of manufacture, as to whether it would be considered a commercially viable option. The most cost-effective invert sugar is manufactured from a low-cost pure sucrose source (this enables close to 100% conversion to inverted sugar). Further testing and cost-benefit analysis can be undertaken to compare the various sugar products.

Alternatives to the use of sucrose include honey, molasses, treacle, maple syrup. In fact, any appropriate sugar source may have application with the present invention. Honey products do contain reasonably low amounts of invert sugar, but the use of honey may be an expensive option in a bulk fertiliser product. Maple syrups do include some inverted sugars, but further processing (using the processes already outlined) may be necessary to attain a high level of inverted sugar. The total sugar (sucrose) content of molasses is approximately 50%. So, molasses sugars can be inverted and used in this product. Treacle (in various forms) is also an inverted sugar - similar to Golden Syrup.

One preferred possible option as an invert sugar production method in relation to the present invention includes the use of enzyme methods. For example, the method may include the use of the enzyme invertase or any other suitable enzymes to invert sugar. Such methods can be used to achieve close to 100% conversion in the production of inverted sugars. This is well known technology in the food industry, but has not been previously applied to fertilisers.

Another possible option as an invert sugar production method in relation to the present invention makes use of the fact that inverted sugars can also be produced by acid hydrolysis. Following is a typical prior art recipe: 12 2012233010 22 Apr 2017 5 3 cups of sugar 3 cups of water Lemon juice or ascorbic acid.

Heated at 114°C for 30 minutes. 10 The water level needs to be adjusted as sugar crystallizes over time. The less water that is used the less crystallization occurs.

Whilst the above recipes and methods have been provided as examples, these are not to be seen as limiting the present invention. The invention extends to variations to the 15 methodology and includes other options available in the prior art and/or as adapted from the prior art, or uniquely developed for the present invention.

In another embodiment of the present invention for example, water dispersible waxes may be used in the place of inverted sugar, as a binding and/or dispersing agent. Further 20 research is underway in this area. Water dispersible waxes are typically hydrocarbon based compounds (long-chain) combined with a surfactant to enable dispersion in contact with water. The surfactants can include an oil-soluble metal salt or a plant based oil. Any such water dispersible wax may be ultimately used or adapted for use with the present invention. 25

Similarly, water soluble gels (WSGs) may be used in yet another embodiment of the present invention as a binding and/or dispersing agent.

For example, the granule composition may include aqueous solutions of gelling agents Gelling agent may be obtained from animal protein (mainly gelatin, manufactured from 30 the collagen of animal skin or bone) and/or plant polysaccharides or their derivatives (like carrageenans and modified forms of starch and cellulose may be used - for example, hypromellose, is a polymer formulated from cellulose).

Other ingredients may also be added such as glycerin and/or sorbitol to decrease the gelling agent's hardness, along with disintegrants, and so forth, as may be required. 13

Such water soluble gels may also be used to coat the granule to provide a delayed release option of the active components from the granule.

Whilst one embodiment of the present invention includes bentonite, it is noted that as this new technology develops it will become possible to produce fertiliser compositions with less bentonite and instead rely on the soil organisms and water to disperse the fine sulphur particles of the treatment granules which include the inverted sugars and/or water soluble waxes and/or soluble gels.

In addition, it may be possible to not use any bentonite in the granules. The soil organisms will rather consume the inverted sugars and/or water soluble waxes and/or soluble gels and release the finely bound sulphur particles, without the need for bentonite to operate as a dispersal agent/active. Therefore, whilst bentonite can be used it is not necessary as soil organisms will eat the inverted sugars and/or water soluble waxes and/or soluble gels, causing the granules to breakup and disperse.

Two key criteria for evaluating a fertiliser granule are crushing strength and water dispersion. The first relates to the ability to produce a dust-free product. The second ensures that the sulphur is quickly made available in the soil.

The present invention refers to the fine grinding of sulphur. Such fine grinding is undertaken to achieve preferred particle sizes. There is however a limit on how fine sulphur can be ground because of transportation and usability constraints. Accurate spreading of finely ground sulphur is also difficult due to the drifting of fine particles. Granulation of fine sulphur materials overcomes these practical problems enabling much finer sulphur to be transported and applied. Granulation of the product provides an advantage in reducing dust problems associated with finely ground sulphur.

However, in New Zealand, sulphur granules that contain only 10% bentonite are typically required to be handled in bags because of issues with dust. However, sulphur granules of the present invention are formulated with additional components. 14 2012233010 22 Apr 2017 5 When the granules of the present invention, which due to the fine grinding of the sulphur component includes sulphur fines, were tested, the process and results were as follows: 1. Using a pestle and mortar 100 grams of sulphur granules were crushed. 2. The resultant product was placed in an airborne dust testing tower. 10 3. The airborne dust (fine sulphur) measured was 9%.

Assuming that when handling the sulphur granules 1% of product becomes fine dust this would give 10kg of dust per tonne of granules/granule. Of this, 10kg of fine sulphur only 900 grams would become airborne dust. This means that for every tonne of granules 15 handled only 0.9kg of dust is created. Or, put another way, 99.999% of the granules of the present invention are adapted to be are handled without a dust problem.

The reduction of dust production from the present elemental sulphur/bentonite granules therefore provides a potentially realisable advantage of the present invention over prior 20 art sulphur/bentonite fertilisers. A sticky coating may also be applied to the granule to collect any fine sulphur dust produced. This coating would consist of an inverted sugar as previously mentioned. Alternatively, the use of waxes and/or gels may provide a similar result. 25

The use of inverted sugars to improve dispersion of the fertiliser components into the soil provides an additional potentially realisable advantage of the present invention over prior art fertilisers. The use of water soluble waxes and/or water soluble gels may also provide the invention with potentially realisable advantages in relation to dispersion of the 30 fertiliser components into the soil. A further potentially realisable advantage of the use of inverted sugars in relation to the present invention is the benefits afforded to soil fauna and flora, including microorganisms. When such sugars are introduced to the soil almost any plant microbial 15 activity is promoted. A similar benefit may also be provided with the use of water soluble waxes and water soluble gels.

One possible composition option in relation to the present invention includes the following components on a percentage weight:weight:

Sulphur 79% 10% Bentonite 11% inverted sugar

Whilst one embodiment has been identified above, it is to be appreciated that the composition may be varied according to soil types, geographic region, soil nutrient profiles and so forth. Therefore, any such examples of the composition options should not be seen as limiting the scope of the present invention.

Moisture in the form of an appropriate fluid(s) may also be included in the composition and/or as part of the preparation of the granule. Examples of suitable fluids include water, and oils. However, other fluids may be used as may be deemed appropriate for the overall composition and having regard to the components of the composition. Water may be present in the composition as required. Preferably water may be included from 0-8% of the total weight percentage of the composition. In some situations no fluid may be required, water or otherwise, so may not be added. This is because typically, the moisture content is minimised to prevent sugar recrystallisation.

As previously mentioned, the two key criteria for evaluating a fertiliser granule are crushing strength and water dispersion. As discussed, the first relates to the ability to produce a dust-free product the second ensures that the sulphur is quickly made available in the soil.

Crush strength gives an indication of the strength characteristics of fertiliser granules. Granule strength plays an important role in the storage, transportation and application of granular fertilisers 16

As the pressure at which the granules are formed increases so does the crush strength of the granules (for various granule compositions). By controlling the pressure at which granules are formed it is possible to produce a granule with the desired strength characteristics.

Preferably, the granules have predetermined granule strength, as required to provide additional benefits when storing, transporting and applying the granules. For example, in preferred embodiments, the granules of the present invention may vary in strength from 1 - 10kg.

The following techniques may be used to achieve desired granule/granule crushing strength, by: a) Minimising the surface area of the granules - by producing smooth surfaced granules. Granules produced by various means can typically have rough surfaces and therefore a higher overall surface area. A pellet press can be used to produce granules with smooth sides and clean-cut ends. Briquettes are an example of granules produced which are typically smooth on all sides. Often the compression stage can lead to a sheen, often noticeable on briquette-type granules. b) Minimising the bulk surface area. The overall surface area of the bulk fertiliser granules can be reduced by producing larger sized granules. c) Minimising the amount of moisture present in the granule. This will especially mitigate problems encountered due to moisture absorption under high humidity conditions. d) Producing harder granules. Granules produced under higher pressure will be harder and have better handling characteristics. e) Post-production heating of the granules. Such heating can be applied to produce a hardened surface. This may also further reduce retained/absorbed moisture following production of the granules. f) Coating of granules with lime powder can be undertaken. g) Storage of granules in preferred conditions for a preferred period of time.

It may be that such techniques are employed to also affect the dispersion rate of the granules of the present invention, as required. For example, newly produced granules may disperse more quickly than granules which have been stored for a period of time before application 17 onto the soils - whether such changes are effected by further drying of stored granules, changes in pH over time or other such factors.

Also, as previously mentioned, the coating of the granules with inverted sugars, water soluble waxes and/or water soluble gels may also influence the rate of dispersion.

In accordance with the present invention, two granulation processes are described, although other known pressing methods can be used. In some other embodiments sheets may be formed by means of a double-roll chinsolator applying approximately 2000kg of pressure. The pressed sheets are then broken up by means of a rotating finger type device to produce 0.2-8mm long granules. Or, pellets are formed by means of a double-roll pressure pelletiser device applying approximately 2000kg of pressure to produce granules 1 -5mm long. The granules may be various shapes. Uniform-sized granules have better spread characteristics than a non-granulated product. This helps ensure more accurate spreading.

According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for maximising the availability of at least one soil treatment composition, said soil treatment composition containing at least one active component, said method including the steps of: a) Selecting the soil treatment components required; and b) Preparing said components in dried form, said components being ground to a preferred particle size; and c) Mixing said components together; and d) Adding a preferred quantity of fluid to the mixed components, if or as required; and e) Applying pressure to a quantity of said component mixture to form granules of the composition; and said method characterised by the particle sizes of the components being specifically targeted for use with a particular soil type and/or treatment requirement.

In the present invention, the soil treatment component(s) includes finely ground elemental sulphur. However, other actives may be used alone or in combination depending on the application of the soil treatment system to particular geographic regions, soil types, plant requirements, and so forth. 18

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method, substantially as described above, wherein a dispersion and/or binding agent is added to the component mix.

In the present invention the dispersion and/or binding agent includes bentonite and/or addition of an inverted sugar and/or a water-soluble wax and/or a water soluble gel. However, other binding/dispersing agents may be utilised as relevant to the present invention. Therefore the list provided should not be seen as limiting the scope of the present invention.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method, substantially as described above, wherein at least one of the active components also acts as dispersion and/or binding agent.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method, substantially as described above, wherein the fluid includes at least water. However, other fluids, such as oils and so forth may be used (including a fish, or a vegetable oil - such as a triglyceride).

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for maximising the availability of at least one soil treatment composition via prolonged release of the components on to and/or into the soil, said method including the step of: grinding the components to achieve a preferred particle size, said particle size being adapted to the soil type and requirement and providing an increased surface area to improve availability of the component in to or onto the soil.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method substantially as described above achieved via coating of the granule to effect delayed or enhanced release of the components over a period of time after introduction of the granule on to or into the soil.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein the delay in release of the components of the granule is accomplished by encapsulating the granule within a dissolvable or degradable protective layer. 19

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein a quantity of the components of the granule is released substantially continuously, once release is initiated, for the intended life of the granule.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein there is provided an initial boosted release rate of components from the granule following introduction of the granule on to or into the soil.

For example, such a boosted release may be anticipated where the granule was coated with inverted sugar and/or fine sulphur particles are trapped therein on an exposed surface.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein there is provided at least a second boosted release rate of components from the granule following introduction of the granule on to or into the soil.

For example, such a second boosted release may occur where the granule includes a water soluble wax or gel, such that the time taken for the microorganisms to release the active encapsulated therein, may determine subsequent rates of release of the active from the granule.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein the interval between the initial and second boosted release rates corresponds to a predetermined ideal period between release and action of the first component and release and action of a second component.

The solubility of the various binding/dispersing agent components of the granule will be expected to influence the release rates of the components thereby effecting a predetermined ideal period between release and action of a first component and release and action of a second component. 20

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein a boosted release rate of the components of the granule is accomplished by providing a secondary component having different release rate characteristics than the first component,

The solubility of the various active components of the granule will be anticipated to influence the release rates of the components thereby effecting a predetermined ideal period between release and action of a first component and release and action of a second component.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein a boosted release rate of the components is accomplished by providing one component having an exposed surface area greater than other component(s) in the granule.

Where the granule includes varying particle sizes of the active component, it is expected that the varying exposed surface areas will impact on the release rate of the component into the soil.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein one component operates as a carrier matrix system through which at least a second component is dispersed.

Any suitable bio-erodable substance that operates in the way of a carrier matrix, may be considered for use with the present invention as may be required to effect dispersion of a further component in the granule.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein the carrier matrix component dissolves when exposed to the environment into which it is introduced, to expose at least one other component in a time release manner. 21

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a soil treatment composition in the form of a granule substantially as described above wherein the granule, in its entirety, is substantially biodegradable within the soil treatment environment to which it is introduced.

The ability of the granules of the present invention to release the active component into the soil as required is determined by: 1. The use of the bentonite and/or inverted sugars and/or water soluble waxes and/or water soluble gels used. 2. The proportions of each or all of the bentonite and/or inverted sugars and/or water soluble waxes and/or water soluble gels used in the fertiliser composition. 3. The process of manufacture - whether the binding/dispersion components are integrally mixed with the active components (such as the finely ground elemental sulphur) before the granule/granules are formed, or whether coatings of the binding/dispersion components are applied to the granules alone, or as well as integrally mixing the said components. This will dictate the speed of release of the active from the granule. 4. Whether additional components specifically designed to delay release are also included within the granule/granule or, are used to coat the granule/granule. A soil treatment composition in granular form, said granules have a mechanical resistance, dimensions and weights being appropriate for the distribution and the mechanical application on the ground and in the ground, the granules being characterised in that they include finely ground particulate components. A soil treatment composition in granular form, characterized in that the dimension of fine particles do not exceed a preferred dimension as required. A method of preparation of a granular soil treatment composition, wherein the particles of the components are mixed with a binding agent in an effective proportion to bind the particles in the form of granules, said granules having dimensions and weights appropriate for a mechanical application. 22

The granules may be applied via aerial top-dressing, mechanical spreaders, manually.

One aspect of the present invention is to therefore provide a fertiliser granule, said granule including one or more of a binding agent, a dispersing agent and optimum amounts of particulate plant nutrients which can be released in a timely fashion to the soil to achieve rapid availability for plants, said granule being characterised by said particles being sized for optimum benefit having regard to the soils type, different climatic conditions and the different plant nutrient release rates required.

In the present example, it may also be appreciated that fine elemental sulphur is both explosive and a health hazard. The granules of the present invention which may include elemental sulphur are dust-free. Therefore, the granules are able to be stored, transported and applied with little risk of hazardous sulphur dust being released.

In addition, the granule form avoids the limitations of traditional mixed fertilisers which are in powdered or loose form. Such fertilisers are typically transported at some stage. The vibrations generated during transportation can cause the different component nutrients to separate out due to their varying densities. When the fertiliser is then applied there is the potential for uneven distribution of the components of the fertiliser and so some areas may remain or may result in being more deficient in a particular component when compared to another.

It will therefore be appreciated that the invention broadly consists in the parts, elements and features described in this specification, and is deemed to include any equivalents known in the art which, if substituted for the prescribed integers, would not materially alter the substance of the invention.

Variations to the invention may be desirable depending on the applications with which it is to be used. Regard would of course be had to effecting the desired concentrations or volume to volume ratios of the components of the granule, the various components of the granules, the dimensions of the granule, the dissolution rates, the method of application of the granules and so forth as required to effect the desired outcome. 23

Whilst some varying embodiments of the present invention have been described above and are to be yet exampled, it should further be appreciated different embodiments, uses, and applications of the present invention also exist. Further embodiments of the present invention will now be given by way of example only, to help better describe and define the present invention. However, describing the specified embodiments should not be seen as limiting the scope of this invention.

Brief Description of Drawings

Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description, given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 are tables showing examples of the components of fertiliser compositions in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention; and

Figure 2 is a table showing an example of the distribution of particle sizes of an elemental sulphur component of a fertiliser composition in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention; and

Figure 3 is a table showing examples to illustrate possible variations to granule characteristics by simply varying steps in the manufacture process, in accordance with other embodiments of the present invention; and

Figure 4 is a table showing an example of the affect of varying the compression zone during granule manufacture on granule crush strength and granule dispersion time, in accordance with other embodiments of the present invention

Best Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

With reference to the present invention there is provided a granule for a soil treatment system. It should be appreciated that the granule may be varyingly shaped and sized, and so forth as desired. 24

The granule is adapted to include various components desirable in the conditioning or treatment of soils.

The granule preferably is comprised of components (as shown in Figure 1) having specific particle size (as shown in Figure 2 for the elemental sulphur component) and surface area.

Finely ground sulphur is a said component, along with bentonite operating as a dispersant and binding agent. In addition, the granule may instead of bentonite (or in addition to bentonite) include an inverted sugar which operates also as a binding and dispersing agent. In some embodiments of the present invention, the bentonite component may be reduced or deleted altogether, relying solely on the properties of an inverted sugar component for preferred binding and dispersing benefits.

In other embodiments, water soluble waxes and/or gels may also or otherwise be used, with or instead of the inverted sugar component and/or the bentonite.

In one embodiment, the granules of the fertiliser treatment system are compressed pellets with a diameter of 0.3cm and typical lengths of 0.4-0.7cm, with a small number being as long as 1.0cm. The granules are rumbled to remove sharp edges and screened to remove fine material. This removal of fine material is particularly important when using elemental sulphur, as fine material can become hazardous in storage, transportation and handling, given the explosive nature of finely ground elemental sulphur.

The granule is preferably able to easily disperse when applied to the soil and yet have sufficient compressive strength to ensure that the granule does not break-up during storage, transport and application. The compressive strength of the pellets may however vary depending on preferred application - between l-10kg.

Tests undertaken to determine the compressive strength of the granule/pellets of the present invention have shown that the granules have a different texture when compared to prior art products. For example, when force is applied sufficient to break the prior art products, the prior art products were recorded as snapping or shattering. However, the granules/pellets of the present invention differed by simply being squashed and demonstrated a significantly 25 more uniform strength. The harder, denser prior art products were found to be more brittle and hence shattered into several smaller pieces when force sufficient to break the granules/pellets was applied.

The granule product includes any combination of the following features: a) Is a controlled release granule formulated for a specific soil-type. b) Is comprised of components having one or more of a preferred particle size, preferred particle distribution, preferred particle surface area. c) Includes component(s) directed to a specific treatment, specific soil type, specific climatic conditions. d) Includes a component that facilitates dispersal of the granule in water/soil. e) Includes a component that facilitates rapid release of at least one other component from the granule. f) Is substantially uniform in size. g) Is dust free for improved handling, spreading, transportation and safety. h) May be colour-coded to ensure the correct formulation is applied to the particular soil type. i) Is an improvement on products prone to leaching. j) Granules are not easily separated during a mix. k) Fast acting for rapid results - such as rapid plant availability of nutrients. l) A product which is adapted to address some environmental concerns.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

The invention provides a granular fertiliser with the individual components finely ground to ensure a sustained release in the soil.

Some examples of the composition based on the components on a percentage weight:weight ratio basis is provided in Figure 1. However, the soil treatment composition for use as a fertiliser, may include any number of variations to the components of the composition. 26 2012233010 22 Apr 2017 5 Some ranges of the components that may be included on a percentage weight:weight basis are:

Elemental Sulphur 50-79%

Bentonite 8-15%

Inverted sugar 3-50% 10 Fluid 0-8%

Other plant macro/micronutrients/soil conditioning components including trace elements, lime/organic material (including favourable microorganisms) 1-10%

Particle Sizes 15 While uniform granule size provide a benefit in terms of transportation and application, the particles of the components within the granule are preferably sized to suit local conditions. The granules can also be tailored to suit specific regions in terms of the particle size. Normally colder drier areas need finer particles. Particle size distribution in a granule may also vary. 20

Fine Sulphur

The fine elemental sulphur in the granules provides a form of faster acting sulphur which is readily plant available without the sulphate leaching problems associated with sulphate based fertilisers. 25

In order to get a very fast sulphur response a minus 20 micron component may be included in the sulphur. Figure 2 however, provides an example of the distribution of particle sizes of an elemental sulphur component of a preferred fertiliser composition in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. 30

Customised granules

The amount of sulphur and particle sizes in the granule can be varied to suit the particular application. For example: A farm may require sulphur application at levels sufficient to remove any sulphur deficiency. Conversely some farms may require very little sulphur 27 (S). In another situation, the sulphur levels can be slowly added or reduced by utilising a granule with faster or slower release properties.

Figures 3 and 4 illustrate possible changes to granule characteristics by simply varying steps in the manufacture process, such as the compression zone length, additional drying in an oven/dryer, changing the component percentage weight by weight contribution, adding an additional component (selected for particular characteristics as a plant nutrient, soil conditioner and/or the benefit to the granule/composition manufacturing process and so forth). Additionally, addition of fluid, presence of organic material, air drying and so forth may demonstrate variations suitable for specific or preferred applications. As may be appreciated, a number of variations are possible by changing one or more features, but it is to also be appreciated any such variations fall within the ambit of the present invention.

To example the affects of some of the above changes, Figure 3 shows how for granule 2 when compared with granule 1, oven drying the granule overnight at 50°C results in granule 2 having a greater crush strength and a longer dispersion time than granule 1, even though the percentage components are the same in both granules.

Granule 3 is an example where the only features changed when compared with granule 1 are the percentage of each of the components. For example, the elemental sulphur and sugar components of granule 3 are less on a weight to weight basis than are present in granule 1, while the bentonite component is greater in granule 3. Granule 3 however, shows good/fast response dispersion, but low crush strength.

Crush strength, when higher, is generally a beneficial characteristic of fertiliser granules as it ensures the granules retain their form and minimise dust production during storage, handling and transportation. Flowever, as can be seen in granule 1 and 2, the higher the crush strength in those granules, the longer it takes for the granule to disperse the components into or onto the soil. However, with granules formed via the present invention, the presence of the sugar and the almost waxy effect it creates when combined 28 with the other components of the composition, means high crush strength for minimising dust is not so important. This type of granule instead exhibits plastic deformation and so does not produce dust. Any dust sticks to the waxy sugar of the granule composition. Therefore, granule 3 achieves a granule that disperses within a time frame that may be preferable in some soils, without the need for high crush strength.

The results from testing granule 4 demonstrate that by increasing the length of the compression zone from 7mm to 15mm the crush strength of the granule is increased to a more favourable strength for handling, storage and transportation and the dispersion time increased. Granule 4 has greater crush strength than granule 1 and 3, but less than granule 2. Granule 4 disperses faster than granules 1 and 2, but slower than granule 3.

Granule 5 includes an additional component - lignosulphonate. The inclusion of this component effects a granule where the crush strength is greater than that of granule 3, but less than granule 4. The dispersion time of granule 5 is conversely greater than granule 3, but less than granule 4. The lignosulphonate has enabled the crush strength to be increased while maintaining good dispersion.

In granule 6 results from testing granule demonstrate that by again increasing the length of the compression zone from 7mm to 15mm the crush strength of the granule is increased to a more favourable level but the dispersion rate is slower than for granule 5 Granule 6 demonstrates good crush strength, with average-to-good dispersion. Again this shows that by increasing the length of the compression from 7 to 15mm the crush strength increased and the dispersion time increased.

Plastic Deformation A key physical property that is confirmed by the above experimental results is that a granule which exhibits plastic deformation without shattering is produced by using 10 -11% sugar wax in the granule. This kind of granule will deform in such a way as to not produce dust when crushed and is therefore much safer to handle and apply, especially when an active component of the granule is elemental sulphur. 29 2012233010 22 Apr 2017 5 Compression zone length

It has also been demonstrated (compare granules 3 &amp; 4 and then compare granules 5 &amp; 6) that the length of the compression zone in the die (effective applied pressure), directly affects crush strength and dispersion in a manner as recorded in Figure 4. 10 In this way pressure can be used to adjust crush strength and dispersion time to produce the granule required. Adjusting the pressure also varies the heat at which the granule leaves the machine. This heat effects plastic deformation and the other characteristics (crush strength &amp; dispersion) of the granule. 15 Dispersion

Dispersion times can also be adjusted by varying the amounts and ratio of bentonite and lignosulphonate or using one or the other. However, the present invention is not limited only to the use of either or both these components. 20 Drying

Drying can also be used to adjust the crush strength and dispersion time (see granule 1 and compare its characteristics with those of granule 2).

Therefore, as may be appreciated, the various examples used assist in demonstrating how 25 changes to the granule and composition features enable the granules and/or the composition to be adapted depending on the needs to be considered when manufacturing the fertiliser generally and where specifically tailor making a composition and/or fertiliser granule for distribution on to specific soils, in specific regions, in specific countries and for applications subject to specific climatic conditions. 30

When referring to the description of the present invention, it should also be understood that the term “comprise” where used herein is not to be considered to be used in a limiting sense. Accordingly, ‘comprise’ does not represent nor define an exclusive set of items, but includes the possibility of other components and items being added to the list. 30 2012233010 22 Apr 2017 5 This specification is also based on the understanding of the inventor regarding the prior art. The prior art description should not be regarded as being an authoritative disclosure of the true state of the prior art but rather as referring to considerations in and brought to the mind and attention of the inventor when developing this invention. 10 Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope thereof, as defined in the appended claims. 31

Claims (47)

1. THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE:

   1. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser, said composition including at least one soil treatment component, said at least one soil treatment component including particulate elemental sulphur, said elemental sulphur component being finely ground and including a portion having particles of a size less than 20 microns; and said composition also including at least one binding agent, said binding agent being intimately mixed with the finely ground elemental sulphur particles to effect a stable soil treatment composition in granular form; said a least one binding agent including a sugar; and wherein said sugar is an inverted sugar; said inverted sugar having at least wax-like properties.
2. 2. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the said binding agent also being at least one of: a) Water soluble; b) A dispersing agent; c) A humectant - retaining moisture in the finished product; d) Consumable by soil organisms - to assist release of the finely ground and bound fine sulphur particles; e) Enabling plastic deformation of the granule form.
3. 3. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 2, wherein said sugar, added in predetermined proportions, binds with the fine elemental sulphur particles to effect stabilility of the composition and reduce the explosive nature of the elemental sulphur.
4. 4. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 3, wherein said sugar operates as a dispersing agent adapted to enable timed, delayed or rapid release of the elemental sulphur on to or into the soil.
5. 5. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 4, wherein in conjunction with said sugar the soil treatment composition includes at least one soil treatment component from the list of: a) Finely ground elemental sulphur comprising 50-90% of the composition on a percentage weight:weight basis, b) Reactive Phosphate Rock (RPR), c) Additional macro/micronutrients, including lime, trace elements, soil conditioning compounds d) Additional binding agents and/or dispersing agents, including any one of bentonite, a water-soluble wax, a water soluble gel, lignosulphonates, glycerin and/or sorbitol, as determined to effect dispersion of the components to address either or both the nutritional needs of plants for the benefit of which the composition is applied and to improve the soil structure and condition.
6. 6. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 5, wherein the soil treatment components are optimised by fine-grinding to predetermined particle sizes and classifications to suit differing soil conditions and the purpose for which the soil treatment is required.
7. 7. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 6, wherein where the soil treatment composition includes finely ground elemental sulphur, the elemental sulphur component includes a fine portion of <20 micron for fast reactivity of the elemental sulphur when the soil treatment composition is applied either or both on to and in to the soil.
8. 8. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 7, wherein the fine elemental sulphur portion of <20 micron particles is within a range of elemental sulphur particle sizes of between 1000 micron to less than 75 micron, depending on the geographical area and/or soils to which the treatment is applied.
9. 9. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 8, wherein dispersion of the elemental suphur either or both on to and in to the soil is further facilitated by an additional binding/dispersing agent, including bentonite.
10. 10. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 9, wherein said fertiliser composition includes on a percentage weight:weight basis: Elemental Sulphur 50-79% Bentonite 8-15% Inverted sugar 3-50% Fluid (as required) 0-8% Other plant macronutrients and plant micronutrients including trace elements, soil conditioning components including lime, organic material, pre-determined soil microorganisms, as required, up to 10%.
11. 11. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser, as claimed in Claim 10, wherein where the composition includes a fluid, said fluid includes at least one of water, oils (including either or both fish and vegetable oil - such as a triglyceride), waxes, gels.
12. 12. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser, as claimed in Claim 11, wherein the soil treatment composition is in granule form.
13. 13. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser, as claimed in Claim 12, wherein the granule form is adapted in respect of at least one of selected soil treatment components, component particle sizes, component surface areas, to suit various applications, plant nutritional requirements, soil conditions, climatic conditions including temperature, for which the treatment composition is being used.
14. 14. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser, as claimed in Claim 13, wherein the granule disperses at a pre-determined rate following application.
15. 15. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser, as claimed in Claim 14, wherein said granule includes individual components dispersing at pre-determined rates following application.
16. 16. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser, as claimed in Claim 15, wherein the rate at which either or both the granule and each individual component in the granule disperses is effected by a coating applied thereto using a dissolvable or degradable protective layer of at least one of the said sugar, water-soluble wax, water-soluble gel.
17. 17. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser, as claimed in Claim 16, wherein after introduction of the granule to the soil the coating of either or both the granule and the component particles determines release of the components over the intended life of the granule via one or a combination of immediate, delayed, enhanced, boosted, continuous, release.
18. 18. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser, as claimed in Claim 17, wherein an initial boosted release rate of components from the granule is effected by release of at least finely ground component particles trapped on an exposed surface of the coating applied to the granule.
19. 19. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 18 wherein, a subsequent boosted release of the first component or additional components of the granule is accomplished by said components having different release rate characteristics than the first boosted release rate.
20. 20. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 19, wherein a boosted release rate of the components is accomplished by providing one component having an exposed surface area greater than other component(s) in the granule.
21. 21. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 20, wherein varying particle sizes of the component(s) effect varying exposed surface areas that impact on the release rate of the component from the granule.
22. 22. A soil treatment composition for a a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 21, wherein the subsequent release rates of the components are also influenced by at least one of: a) the solubility of the binding/dispersing agents of the granule b) the solubility of the selected active components of the granule c) the soil flora and fauna activity on the various agents and/or components of the granule.
23. 23. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 22, wherein the interval between initial and subsequent component release rates corresponds to a predetermined ideal period between the initial release and action of a first component and subsequent release and action of a that same or additional component(s).
24. 24. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 23, wherein one component operates as a carrier matrix system through which at least a second component is dispersed.
25. 25. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 24, wherein the carrier matrix component dissolves when exposed to the environment into which it is introduced, to expose at least one other component in a time release manner.
26. 26. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 25, wherein the bio-erodable inverted sugar operates as a carrier matrix to effect dispersion of at least one component in the granule.
27. 27. A soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 26, wherein the granule in its entirety, is substantially biodegradable within the soil treatment environment to which it is introduced.
28. 28. A method of preparing a soil treatment composition for a fertiliser, said composition including at least one soil treatment component, said at least one soil treatment component including particulate elemental sulphur, said elemental sulphur component being finely ground and including a portion having particles of a size less than 20 microns; and said composition also including at least one binding agent, said binding agent being intimately mixed with the finely ground elemental sulphur particles to effect a soil treatment composition in granular form; said a least one binding agent including a sugar; and wherein said sugar is an inverted sugar; said inverted sugar having at least wax-like properties; said method including the steps of: a) Selecting at least one of the soil treatment component(s) required; and b) Preparing said component(s) in dried form, said component(s) being ground to pre-determined particle size(s); and c) Adding a pre-determined quantity of a binding/dispersing agent as required; and d) Mixing said components together; and e) As required, adding a quantity of fluid to the mixed components; and said method characterised by the sugar operating as either or both a binding agent and a dispersing agent.
29. 29. A method of preparing a soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 28, wherein the said binding agent also being at least one of: a) Water soluble; b) A dispersing agent; c) A humectant - retaining moisture in the finished product; d) Consumable by soil organisms - to assist release of the finely ground and bound fine sulphur particles; e) Enabling plastic deformation of the granule form.
30. 30. A method of preparing a soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 29, wherein where the composition includes a fluid, said fluid includes at least one of water, oils, waxes, gels.
31. 31. A method of preparing a soil treatment composition for a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 30, wherein said composition also includes at least one of: a) Finely ground elemental sulphur comprising 50-90% of the composition on a percentage weighfiweight basis; b) Finely ground Reactive Phosphate Rock (RPR), c) Additional soil conditioning compounds and/or macro or micronutrients, including lime, trace elements, as required, d) Additional binding agents and/or dispersing agents, including any one of bentonite, a water-soluble wax, a water soluble gel, lignosulphonates, glycerin and/or sorbitol, as determined to effect dispersion of the components to address either or both the nutritional needs of plants for the benefit of which the composition is applied and to improve the soil structure and condition.
32. 32. A granule for use in soil treatment applications as a fertiliser when applied either or both on to and in to soil, said granule comprised of a soil treatment composition, said composition including at least one soil treatment component, said at least one soil treatment component including particulate elemental sulphur, said elemental sulphur component being finely ground and including a portion having particles of a size less than 20 microns; and said composition also including at least one binding agent, said binding agent being intimately mixed with the finely ground elemental sulphur particles to effect a stable soil treatment composition in granular form; said a least one binding agent including a sugar; and wherein said sugar is an inverted sugar; said inverted sugar having at least wax-like properties.
33. 33. A granule for use in soil treatment applications as a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 32, wherein the said binding agent also being at least one of: a) Water soluble; b) A dispersing agent; c) A humectant - retaining moisture in the finished product; d) Consumable by soil organisms - to assist release of the finely ground and bound fine sulphur particles; e) Enabling plastic deformation of the granule form.
34. 34. A granule for use in soil treatment applications as a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 33, wherein the sugar operates as either or both a binding agent and a dispersing agent.
35. 35. A granule for use in soil treatment applications as a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 34, wherein where the composition includes a fluid, said fluid includes one or more of water, oils, waxes, gels.
36. 36. A granule for use in soil treatment applications as a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 35, wherein said composition also includes at least one of: a) Finely ground elemental sulphur comprising 50-90% of the composition on a percentage weight:weight basis, b) Finely ground Reactive Phosphate Rock (RPR), c) Additional soil conditioning compounds and/or macro or micronutrients, including lime, trace elements, as required, d) Additional binding agents and/or dispersing agents, including any one of bentonite, a water-soluble wax, a water soluble gel, lignosulphonates, glycerin and/or sorbitol, as determined to effect dispersion of the components to address either or both the nutritional needs of plants for the benefit of which the composition is applied and to improve the soil structure and condition.
37. 37. A granule for use in soil treatment applications as a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 36, wherein said granule following application disperses at a pre-determined rate.
38. 38. A granule for use in soil treatment applications as a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 37, wherein said dispersion of the granule is effected by at least one of: a) the components of the granule, b) the crush strength of the granule, c) Minimising the surface area of the granule by producing a smooth surfaced granule. d) Minimising the bulk surface area by producing larger sized granules. e) Minimising the amount of moisture present in the granule. f) Storage of the prepared granule in pre-determined conditions for a determined period of time. g) Applying a coating to either or both the granule and the component particles of the granule.
39. 39. A granule for use in soil treatment applications as a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 38, wherein the sugar component of the granule: a) is highly water-soluble and rapidly dissolves when in contact with soil moisture; and b) stimulates activity of soil flora and fauna, effecting dispersion and availability of the components of the granule to the soil.
40. 40. A method of manufacturing a granule for use in soil treatment applications as a fertiliser when applied to the soil, said granule comprised of a soil treatment composition, said soil treatment composition including at least one soil treatment component, said at least one soil treatment component including particulate elemental sulphur, said elemental sulphur component being finely ground and including a portion having particles of a size less than 20 microns; and said composition also including at least one binding agent, said binding agent being intimately mixed with the finely ground elemental sulphur particles to effect a stable soil treatment composition in granular form; said a least one binding agent including a sugar; and wherein said sugar is an inverted sugar; said inverted sugar having at least wax-like properties; said method including the steps of: a) Selecting at least one of the soil treatment component(s) required; and b) Preparing said component(s) in dried form, said component(s) being ground to pre-determined particle size(s); and c) Adding a pre-determined quantity of a binding/dispersing agent as required; and d) Mixing said components together; and e) As required, adding a quantity of fluid to the mixed components; and f) Applying pressure to a quantity of said component mixture to form granules of the composition; and said method characterised by the sugar operating as a binding/dispersing agent.
41. 41. A method of manufacturing a granule for use in soil treatment applications as a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 40, wherein the said binding agent also being at least one of: a) Water soluble; b) A dispersing agent; c) A humectant - retaining moisture in the finished product; d) Consumable by soil organisms - to assist release of the finely ground and bound fine sulphur particles; e) Enabling plastic deformation of the granule form.
42. 42. A method of manufacturing a granule for use in soil treatment applications as a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 41, wherein said fluid includes at least one of water, oil (including a fish and/or a vegetable oil - such as a triglyceride), wax, gel.
43. 43. A method of manufacturing a granule for use in soil treatment applications as a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 42, wherein the soil treatment component(s) includes at least one of: a) Finely ground elemental sulphur comprising 50-90% of the composition on a percentage weight:weight basis, b) Finely ground Reactive Phosphate Rock (RPR), c) Additional soil conditioning compounds and/or macro or micronutrients, including lime, trace elements, as required, d) Additional binding agents and/or dispersing agents, including any one of bentonite, a water-soluble wax, a water soluble gel, lignosulphonates, glycerin and/or sorbitol, as determined to effect dispersion of the components to address either or both the nutritional needs of plants for the benefit of which the composition is applied and to improve the soil structure and condition.
44. 44. A method of manufacturing a granule for use in soil treatment applications as a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 43, wherein the components are finely ground to particles of pre-determined dimensions as required.
45. 45. A method of manufacturing a granule for use in soil treatment applications as a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 44, wherein said component particles are mixed with a binding agent in an effective proportion required to bind the particles in the form of granules having dimensions and weights appropriate for a mechanical application.
46. 46. A method of manufacturing a granule for use in soil treatment applications as a fertiliser as claimed in Claim 45, wherein the granules are adapted to be applied via aerial top-dressing, mechanical spreaders, manually.
47. 47. A method for maximising the availability of a soil treatment composition as a fertiliser when applied to soil, said soil treatment composition including at least one soil treatment component, said at least one soil treatment component including particulate elemental sulphur, said elemental sulphur component being finely ground and including a portion having particles of a size less than 20 microns; and said composition also including at least one binding agent, said binding agent being intimately mixed with the finely ground elemental sulphur particles to effect a stable soil treatment composition in granular form; said a least one binding agent including a sugar; and wherein said sugar is an inverted sugar; said inverted sugar having at least wax-like properties; said method including the steps of: a) Selecting soil treatment component(s) required; and b) Preparing said component(s) in dried form, said component(s) being finely ground to a pre-determined particle size(s); and c) Adding a pre-determined quantity of a binding/dispersing agent as required; and d) Mixing said components together; and e) As required, adding a quantity of fluid to the mixed components; and f) Applying pressure to a quantity of said component mixture to form granules of the composition if required for application; and said method characterised by the sugar operating as bio-erodable binding/dispersing agent and said method further characterised by the particle sizes of the components being specifically targeted for use with pre-determined soil types and/or treatment requirements.