Eco-friendly cellulose-based hydrogels derived from wastepapers as a controlled-release fertilizer

Abstract In this study, an eco-friendly controlled release fertilizer cellulose-based hydrogel was prepared from cellulose fibers derived wastepaper, epichlorohydrin (ECH) as a crosslinker and carboxy methyl (CMC) gelling agent. A maximum swelling capacity of 2000% achieved for with optimum composition. The soil moisture contents in the presence optimized hydrogels were determined using digital meter. Maximum 36.5% obtained topsoil, followed by 30.1% wet clayey 23.4% sandy after 7 days. Urea model loaded onto to control fertilizer. loading urea is 0.51 g/g. urea-controlled profiles distilled water various types soils investigated. formulation observed facilitate gradual urea, about 74.71% 73.37% 71.84% within 42 days when compared free which 97.32%, 95.09% 98.47% soils, respectively result study shows that urea-loaded could be promising controlled-release Graphical