Pursell Agri-Tech LLC, Sylacauga, Ala., and Huntsman International LLC, The Woodlands, Texas, have announced that they have been issued U.S. Patent No. 11,180,429 by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. This patent relates to the PurActive® polyurethane-based coating technology used in the production of controlled-release fertilizer (CRF) for a broad range of markets, including turf and ornamental, specialty agriculture, row crop agriculture, and consumer home and garden.
“The PurActive® coating technology leverages Huntsman’s advanced Rimline® polyurethane system and optimized processes to produce controlled-release fertilizer at faster batch times, lower processing temperatures, and with a much thinner coating weight,” said Jan Buberl, Vice President – Huntsman Polyurethanes Americas. “These unique advantages translate into lower energy usage and a reduced carbon footprint.”
“We are committed to introducing CRF technology that helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve water quality,” said Taylor Pursell, Pursell Chairman. “This patented coating technology has proven its ability to do this while allowing us to offer customers a broader portfolio of coated substrates and numerous product features previously unavailable.”
Pursell said university trials demonstrated that the PurActive® technology also protected the core fertilizer substrate and minimized nutrient loss, greatly reducing volatilization and leaching. The companies also said since the coating technology is thinner, it allows for higher nutrient content per ton and the lower processing temperature promotes the survivability of such health-boosting additives as micronutrients, microbials and biostimulants.
“Ongoing investment in research and development is the backbone of our company and what we believe differentiates us, and our partner Huntsman, from the competition,” said Nick Adamchak, Pursell CEO. “This patent further solidifies our position and enhances our ability to introduce CRF technology that improves nutrient delivery while minimizing impact to the environment.”
Pursell and Huntsman were recently recognized by the Center for the Polyurethanes Industry (CPI) as the 2021 recipient of its Polyurethane Innovation Award (GM Oct. 15, p. 30).