Phosphorus is essential for crop production, however, existing fertilizers are often used inefficiently because plants absorb only part of the nutrient applied. Much of the rest binds to soil or is lost through runoff, erosion, or leaching, which can contribute to water pollution. Recent scientific literature has provided an overview of ongoing efforts to improve phosphorus fertilizer technologies, reflecting both progress and persistent challenges in achieving higher nutrient-use efficiency. The research shows that although many new approaches have been tested, few have led to widely applicable improvements in how phosphorus fertilizers perform in real farming conditions.
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There is a need for fertilizers that release phosphorus in a way that better matches crop needs. Traditional highly soluble products dissolve quickly after application, which can lead to losses before plants can use them. Studies have examined slow-release coatings, modified materials that limit fixation in the soil, and organic or mineral combinations that release phosphorus more gradually. These approaches show potential, but their effectiveness varies by soil type, crop, and climate and many have only been tested in small laboratory or greenhouse studies, not in real farm conditions.
In recent years, there has been an increased interest in alternative phosphorus sources, including recovered materials from wastewater such as struvite and calcium phosphate precipitates. These products could support more circular use of nutrients, but their performance depends heavily on soil conditions and granulate size. In many trials, they match conventional fertilizers only when finely ground or used in acidic soils.
For the phosphate fertilizer sector, the overall conclusion is that no single technology is likely to replace established products in all settings. Soil chemistry plays a major role in determining whether innovations such as liquid formulations, coated granules, or recovered minerals offer advantages. Experiments should be better-designed and reflect real farming practices, including long-term field trials and more consistent testing methods. Without this, it remains difficult to compare new products or determine how they would perform at scale.
Overall, the literature suggests that while promising ideas exist, most remain at early stages of development. Significant work is still needed before new phosphorus fertilizer technologies can deliver consistent, cost-effective improvements for farmers while also reducing environmental impacts.
More information available at:
• Weeks, Joseph & Hettiarachchi, Ganga. (2019). A Review of the Latest in Phosphorus Fertilizer Technology: Possibilities and Pragmatism. Journal of Environmental Quality. 48. 10.2134/jeq2019.02.0067.