Innovations for World Nutrition (IFWN), Florence, Ala., reports that it has filed for patent protection for five of its new plant growth promoter technologies. The initial reports on the technology (GM April 5, 2019) were that rice yields were increased by 56 percent. The latest technology builds on this early success, modifying it to include wheat, corn, and cotton. Other areas expected to be included are trees and energy grasses.
IFWN said the latest research and development work has centered on reducing the growth promoter formulations and costs and increasing the ease of application.
IFWN said the growth promoters do not take the place of fertilizer ingredients, but instead make them extremely efficient. The cost of the growth promoter ingredients is reported to be low, and the storage, handling, and application technology easy. IFWN said the ingredients of these technologies are readily available worldwide and are expected to make a significant impact on world food supplies with reduced costs.
The development work for IFWN has been done by Applied Chemical Technology (ACT), Florence, Ala., over a period of four years of lab, greenhouse, and field work under the direction of ACT founder Ray Shirley. IFWN is currently seeking strategic partners to assist in the effort to further develop, test and provide production and commercialization of the growth promoters.
While Shirley, who has a nearly 60-year career in the fertilizer development business, remains involved with ACT, which has been known for its development and commercialization of slow-release fertilizers, he has now shifted his main focus to IFWN and the new technology.