TLDR:
Key Points:
- Debye Ltd is trialling a lightning-based fertilizer technology that captures nitrogen in the form of nitrates using air, water, and electricity.
- The technology aims to support farmers, climate, and soil health by providing a sustainable alternative to traditional ammonia-based fertilizers.
Lightning-based fertilizer technology could support farmers, climate and soil health
A new lightning-based fertilizer technology developed by Debye Ltd is being trialled in collaboration with Agri-Tech Centres. The technology simulates lightning’s ability to capture nitrogen in the form of nitrates when it strikes water, using only air, water, and electricity. The goal is to provide farmers with an on-the-spot or local supply of nitrate-based fertilizer while promoting environmental sustainability and soil health.
The feasibility R&D project, taking place on lettuce crops at Agri-Tech Centre CHAP’s facility, aims to develop a one-kilowatt proof-of-concept prototype. The technology, if successful, could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from synthetic fertilizer production and enhance food security. By harnessing nature’s principles, the technology offers a near zero-emission process that is secure and locally available.
Dr. Burak Karadag, Chief Technical Officer at Debye Ltd, highlights the importance of addressing climate change and enhancing food security through innovation. The lightning-based technology could offer a sustainable alternative to ammonia-based fertilizers and reduce the negative impacts on air, soil, and water quality.
The project, funded by Innovate UK and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, aims to support farmers and growers in adopting novel technologies. By creating an evidence base for innovative fertilizers, the technology could help facilitate a fair transition for UK farmers towards more sustainable practices.
In collaboration with Agri-Tech Centres, Debye Ltd is looking to revolutionize the fertilizer industry and provide farmers with a more environmentally friendly and sustainable solution. The lightning-based technology has the potential to support agriculture, climate, and soil health while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting food security.