. Durability in soil of tablets and films of HPMC and Chitosan for controlled release applications

MELAJ, MARIANA A.; DARAIO, MARTA; VAZQUEZ, ANALIA

Ciudad de Buenos Aires

Workshop; II Workshop on Bio-degradable Polymers and Biocomposites. III Workshop BIOPURFIL, Bio-based Polyurethane Composites with Natural Fillers; 2015

Controlled-release fertilizers (CRF) minimize the potential of nutrient losses to the environment, compared to conventional fertilizers and extend the accessibility of a nutrient for plant uptake [1]. CRF matrices based on hydrophilic gel-forming polymers are especially effective [2,3]. Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) and Chitosan (Q) are biocompatible polymers that may contribute to reduce environmental pollution. In this work, polymeric matrices based on HPMC and Q were prepared as tablets and films to examine their durability in soil. This is an important characteristic for the development of controlled release devices.The permanence in soil depends on matrix type: tablets have greater durability than films, regardless of polymer used.The choice of the type of polymer matrix allows to modify the permanence time in soil.