U.S. patent application number 13/085226 was filed with the patent office on 2011-10-13 for mineral complex, compositions thereof, and methods of using the same.
Invention is credited to Justin Cannock.
Application Number | 20110250018 13/085226 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44759897 |
Filed Date | 2011-10-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110250018 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Cannock; Justin |
October 13, 2011 |
MINERAL COMPLEX, COMPOSITIONS THEREOF, AND METHODS OF USING THE
SAME
Abstract
The invention provides inter alia a mineral complex comprising
about 40 wt. % to about 60 wt. % SiO.sub.2, about 6 wt. % to about
16 wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 4 wt. % to about 12 wt. %. CaO,
about 2 wt. % to about 8 wt. % MgO, wherein at least 85% of the
mineral complex has a particle size of about 10 to about 6000 mesh,
related compositions and methods for their use, including for
growth medium augmentation and remediation.
Inventors: |
Cannock; Justin;
(Scottsdale, AZ) |
Family ID: |
44759897 |
Appl. No.: |
13/085226 |
Filed: |
April 12, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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61323139 |
Apr 12, 2010 |
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61352464 |
Jun 8, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
405/128.45 ;
111/14 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C09K 8/02 20130101; B09C
1/08 20130101; C05D 3/00 20130101; C05D 9/02 20130101; C05D 9/00
20130101; C05D 9/02 20130101; C05D 9/00 20130101; C05D 5/00
20130101; C05G 3/80 20200201; C05D 3/00 20130101; C05D 3/00
20130101; C05D 5/00 20130101; C05G 3/80 20200201; C09K 17/08
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
405/128.45 ;
111/14 |
International
Class: |
B09C 1/02 20060101
B09C001/02; A01C 5/00 20060101 A01C005/00 |
Claims
1. A process for remediating soil having an elevated level of
hydrocarbons relative to normal soil comprising applying onto the
soil having an elevated level of hydrocarbons relative to normal
soil a composition comprising a mineral complex comprising about 40
wt. % to about 60 wt. % SiO.sub.2, about 6 wt. % to about 16 wt. %
Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 4 wt. % to about 12 wt. %. CaO, and about 2
wt. % to about 8 wt. % MgO, wherein the composition is applied onto
the soil in an amount sufficient to provide thereon mineral complex
in an amount ranging from about 200 lbs per acre to about 10,000
lbs per acre.
2. The process of claim 1, wherein the hydrocarbon is oil.
3. The process of claim 1, wherein the composition is applied onto
the soil in an amount sufficient to provide thereon mineral complex
in an amount ranging from about 200 lbs per acre to about 3,000 lbs
per acre.
4. The process of claim 1, wherein the composition further
comprises a binder.
5. The process of claim 1, wherein the composition further
comprises mulch.
6. The process of claim 1, wherein the composition further
comprises a fertilizing agent.
7. The process of claim 1, wherein the composition further
comprises seed.
8. The process of claim 1, wherein the composition is applied onto
the soil by spraying.
9. The process of claim 1, wherein the composition further
comprises water.
10. The process of claim 9, wherein the composition is applied on
to the soil by spraying.
11. The process of claim 1, wherein at least about 85% of the
mineral complex has an average particle size from about 10 to about
6000 mesh.
12. The process of claim 11, wherein at least about 85% of the
mineral complex has an average particle size form about 200 to
about 6000 mesh.
13. The process of claim 1, wherein the soil is sand, silt, clay,
or any combination thereof.
14. The process of claim 1, further comprising introducing
vegetation into the soil into which the mineral complex has been
applied.
15. The process of claim 1, wherein the composition is enclosed in
a medium, and wherein the medium provides for the controlled
release of the mineral complex from the medium when the medium is
exposed to a water-containing environment.
16. The process of claim 15, wherein the medium comprises a
cellulosic material.
17. The process of claim 15, wherein the medium comprises a
perforated membrane.
18. A process for remediating contaminated soil comprising
introducing into the soil a composition comprising a mineral
complex comprising about 40 wt. % to about 60 wt. % SiO.sub.2,
about 6 wt. % to about 16 wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 4 wt. % to
about 12 wt. %. CaO, and about 2 wt. % to about 8 wt. % MgO,
wherein the contaminated soil includes one or more of the following
contaminants: asbestos, radioactive substances, sewage, oil, fuel,
pesticides, solvents, landfill waste, chemicals, or heavy
metals.
19. The process of claim 18, wherein the soil is contaminated with
at least one heavy metal selected from the group consisting of
lead, mercury, zinc, cadmium and chromium.
20. The process of claim 18, wherein the composition is introduced
into the soil in an amount sufficient to provide therein mineral
complex in an amount ranging from about 200 lbs per acre to about
3,000 lbs per acre.
21. The process of claim 18, wherein the composition further
comprises a binder.
22. The process of claim 18, wherein the composition further
comprises mulch.
23. The process of claim 18, wherein the composition further
comprises a fertilizing agent.
24. The process of claim 18, wherein the composition further
comprises seed.
25. The process of claim 18, wherein the composition is applied
onto the soil by spraying.
26. The process of claim 18, wherein the composition further
comprises water.
27. The process of claim 26, wherein the composition is applied
onto the soil by spraying.
28. The process of claim 18, wherein at least about 85% of the
mineral complex has an average particle size from about 10 to about
6000 mesh.
29. The process of claim 28, wherein at least about 85% of the
mineral complex has an average particle size form about 200 to
about 6000 mesh.
30. The process of claim 18, wherein the soil is sand, silt, clay,
or any combination thereof.
31. The process of claim 18, further comprising introducing
vegetation into the soil into which the mineral complex has been
introduced.
32. The process of claim 18, wherein the composition is enclosed
within a medium, wherein the medium provides for the controlled
release of the mineral complex from the medium when the medium is
exposed to a water-containing environment.
33. The process of claim 32, wherein the medium comprises a
cellulosic material.
34. The process of claim 32, wherein the medium comprises a
perforated membrane.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 61/323,139, filed Apr. 12, 2010,
and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/352,464, filed on
Jun. 8, 2010, which are incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Growth media, which includes soil and water, are essential
for nutrient-dense production of a variety of cultivars, such as
those suitable for human and livestock feed. In addition to
providing a stable base that supports plant roots and above-soil
plant mass, soils store water and nutrients required for plant
growth via a series of inter-related mechanisms. Water also
provides support for several varieties of plants, as well as
nutrients necessary for growth.
[0003] Expanding industrial agriculture practices and dramatically
changing weather patterns continue to damage and deplete the soil
matrix. Intensive plowing and monocrop agriculture systems result
in nutrient depletion and wide-scale soil erosion, and the
over-application of fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides
contaminate soils and pollute waterways.
[0004] The runoff of fertilizers and pesticides, and the
contamination of waterways from other sources, can cause the
nutrient balance in these waterways to become less than optimal. In
this condition, the waterways may not support plant growth
therein.
[0005] Crop harvesting is itself a primary factor in soil and water
depletion. Each harvest can result in a significant loss of
nutrients and moisture from the soil. Without replenishment, the
land rapidly degrades due to nutrient depletion, and crops become
increasingly nutrient poor. Sustainable agriculture depends on
replenishing the soil while minimizing the use of non-renewable
resources, such as natural gas or mineral ores.
[0006] Other contaminants adversely impact water and soil growth
media. Recent years have seen contamination due to weather (e.g.,
sodium and other salts deposited on the soil via sea water as a
result of hurricanes, tropical storms, or tsunamis), accidents
(e.g., oil spills during drilling or production), and industrial
discharge. This contamination reduces the ability of the water and
soil to support plant growth.
[0007] In an effort to address the deficiencies in soil, amendments
have been developed which, when added to soil, improve plant growth
and health. Generally speaking, an amendment is any material added
to a soil to improve its physical, biochemical, or chemical
properties. An amendment or a combination of amendments are often
applied to the soil in an effort to address soil deficiencies.
[0008] In view of the foregoing, there exists a need for
economically-viable materials which, when applied onto soil and
water, address one or more of the foregoing issues. The present
invention meets these and other needs by providing materials and
compositions suitable for application onto soil and water, and
related methods for their use.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 is a line graph depicting the soil water content
(v/v) for soil treated with 1.0 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square
feet (lb N/M) (control) and soil treated with 1.0 pound of nitrogen
per 1,000 square feet (lb N/M) and the mineral complex (mineral
complex).
[0010] FIG. 2 is a bar graph depicting the total root length (cm)
for common bermudagrass grown in soil treated with various
application rates of nitrogen (control) and soil treated with
various application rate of nitrogen and the mineral complex
(mineral complex).
[0011] FIG. 3 is a bar graph depicting the root surface area
(cm.sup.2) for common bermudagrass grown in soil treated with
various application rates of nitrogen (control) and soil treated
with various application rates of nitrogen and the mineral complex
(mineral complex).
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] In one aspect, the invention provides a mineral complex
comprising about 40 wt. % to about 60 wt. % SiO.sub.2, about 6 wt.
% to about 16 wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 4 wt. % to about 12 wt.
%. CaO, and about 2 wt. % to about 8 wt. % MgO.
[0013] In a related aspect, the invention provides a composition
which comprises the foregoing mineral complex and at least one
other component as described herein.
[0014] A further aspect of the invention provides a composition
comprising a mineral complex comprising about 40 wt. % to about 60
wt. % SiO.sub.2, about 6 wt. % to about 16 wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3,
about 4 wt. % to about 12 wt. %. CaO, and about 2 wt. % to about 8
wt. % MgO, and at least one of a seed, a binder, a fertilizing
agent, mulch or water.
[0015] Another aspect of the invention provides a process for
augmenting soil, water or sand comprising applying onto the soil,
water or sand a mineral complex comprising about 40 wt. % to about
60 wt. % SiO.sub.2, about 6 wt. % to about 16 wt. %
Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 4 wt. % to about 12 wt. %. CaO, and about 2
wt. % to about 8 wt. % MgO, or a composition comprising the mineral
complex, wherein the mineral complex (or composition which
comprises the mineral complex) is applied onto the soil or sand in
an amount sufficient to provide for the application thereto of the
mineral complex in an amount ranging from about 200 lbs per acre to
about 10,000 lbs per acre or, in the case of water applications, in
an amount sufficient to provide for the application thereto of the
mineral complex in an amount ranging from about 50 lbs to about
5000 lbs of the mineral complex per 5,000 square feet of surface
area of water. The composition used in the aforesaid augmentation
process may desirably also comprise one or more of seed, a binder,
a fertilizing agent, mulch or water.
[0016] In another aspect, the invention provides a process for
enhancing moisture retention in soil comprising applying onto the
soil a mineral complex comprising about 40 wt. % to about 60 wt. %
SiO.sub.2, about 6 wt. % to about 16 wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 4
wt. % to about 12 wt. %. CaO, and about 2 wt. % to about 8 wt. %
MgO, or a composition which comprises the mineral complex, wherein
the mineral complex (or a composition comprising the mineral
complex) is applied onto the soil in an amount sufficient to
provide for the application thereto of the mineral complex in an
amount ranging from about 200 lbs per acre to about 10,000 lbs per
acre, and wherein the soil onto which the mineral complex (or
composition) has been applied exhibits enhanced moisture retention
relative to untreated soil.
[0017] In yet another aspect, the invention provides a process for
enhancing the germination rate of a seed in a growth medium
comprising implanting the seed in the growth medium and applying
onto the growth medium a mineral complex comprising about 40 wt. %
to about 60 wt. % SiO.sub.2, about 6 wt. % to about 16 wt. %
Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 4 wt. % to about 12 wt. %. CaO, and about 2
wt. % to about 8 wt. % MgO, or a composition which comprises the
mineral complex.
[0018] Yet another aspect of the invention provides a process for
mitigating erosion in soil comprising applying onto the soil a
mineral complex comprising about 40 wt. % to about 60 wt. %
SiO.sub.2, about 6 wt. % to about 16 wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 4
wt. % to about 12 wt. %. CaO, and about 2 wt. % to about 8 wt. %
MgO, or a composition which comprises the mineral complex, wherein
the mineral complex has an average particle size from about 200 to
about 6000 mesh, and wherein the mineral complex (or composition
thereof) is introduced into the sand in an amount sufficient to
provide for the application of the mineral complex in an amount
ranging from about 200 lbs per acre to about 10,000 lbs per
acre.
[0019] A further aspect of the invention provides a process for
remediating soil having an elevated level of sodium (Na) relative
to normal soil comprising applying onto the soil having an elevated
level of sodium relative to normal soil a mineral complex
comprising about 40 wt. % to about 60 wt. % SiO.sub.2, about 6 wt.
% to about 16 wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 4 wt. % to about 12 wt.
%. CaO, and about 2 wt. % to about 8 wt. % MgO, or a composition
comprising the mineral complex, wherein the mineral complex (or
composition thereof) is applied onto the soil in an amount
sufficient to provide for the application of the mineral complex in
an amount ranging from about 200 lbs per acre to about 10,000 lbs
per acre.
[0020] A related aspect of the invention provides a process for
enhancing the ability of sodium-enriched soil to support vegetation
comprising introducing into the soil a mineral complex comprising
about 40 wt. % to about 60 wt. % SiO.sub.2, about 6 wt. % to about
16 wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 4 wt. % to about 12 wt. %. CaO, and
about 2 wt. % to about 8 wt. % MgO, or a composition comprising the
mineral complex, wherein the mineral complex (or composition
thereof) is applied onto the soil in an amount sufficient to
provide for the application of the mineral complex in an amount
ranging from about 200 lbs per acre to about 10,000 lbs per acre,
and wherein the soil into which the mineral complex has been
introduced exhibits enhanced vegetation relative to untreated
soil.
[0021] The invention also provides a process for remediating
contaminated soil comprising applying onto the soil a mineral
complex comprising about 40 wt. % to about 60 wt. % SiO.sub.2,
about 6 wt. % to about 16 wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 4 wt. % to
about 12 wt. %. CaO, and about 2 wt. % to about 8 wt. % MgO, or a
composition comprising the mineral complex.
[0022] The invention also provides a method for remediating water
contaminated by hydrocarbons (e.g., oil or oil-based materials)
comprising applying onto the contaminated water a mineral complex
comprising about 40 wt. % to about 60 wt. % SiO.sub.2, about 6 wt.
% to about 16 wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 4 wt. % to about 12 wt.
%. CaO, and about 2 wt. % to about 8 wt. % MgO, or a composition
comprising the mineral complex.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0023] The invention provides a mineral complex, and compositions
comprising a mineral complex, that are useful as an amendment for
growth media, for soil remediation, and related methods of use. The
mineral complex is suitable for use on a variety of growth media,
for example, soil (including sand, silt, clay, or combinations
thereof) and water, and also is useful in amending such growth
media, as well as remediating soil and water, as will be more fully
described herein.
[0024] The mineral complex of the invention may be obtained from
any natural mineral source. In this regard, the mineral complex of
the invention is a natural product which may be used for the
production of organic foods. In particular, the mineral complex of
the invention meets Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI)
certification standards as organic/non-synthesized inputs: natural
mineral deposits that are not chemically processed/altered. The
mineral complex of the invention also qualifies as Generally
Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status for food processing
applications.
[0025] Desirably, the mineral complex of the invention is obtained
from volcanic (mineral) deposits. For example, the mineral deposit
may be located in non-porous naturally altered volcanic lava, from
highly porous naturally altered volcanic ash, or the mineral
complex may be prepared from a combination of non-porous naturally
altered volcanic lava and highly porous naturally altered volcanic
ash.
[0026] The mineral complex of the invention may be obtained from
any source that extracts mineral deposits having the
characteristics described herein. The mineral complex may be
obtained from one source or from several different sources. For
example, the mineral complex may be prepared from one natural
source of mineral deposit having the characteristics described
herein, or the mineral complex can be prepared by mixing together
several different mineral deposits to achieve a mineral complex
having the characteristics described herein. It should be further
understood that when the mineral complex of the invention is
obtained from a natural source, the mineral complex may vary in
content from source to source and batch to batch. However, analyses
of the mineral complex may be routinely performed in accordance
with techniques known to those skilled in the art to ensure that
the quality of the mineral complex is maintained from batch to
batch and from source to source.
[0027] The mineral complex of the invention comprises numerous
minerals and elements as described herein. Unless otherwise
indicated by language or context, references to weight percents of
the minerals and elements of which the mineral complex is comprised
are based on the total weight of the mineral complex.
[0028] The component having the highest weight percent (wt. %) in
the mineral complex is silicon dioxide (SiO.sub.2). For example,
the mineral complex may comprise about 40 wt. % to about 60 wt. %,
about 42 wt. % to about 58 wt. %, about 45 wt. % to about 60 wt. %,
about 45 wt. % to about 55 wt. %, about 45 wt. % to about 50 wt. %,
about 46 wt. % to about 56 wt. %, about 47 wt. % to about 55 wt. %,
about 47 wt. % to about 54 wt. %, about 48 wt. % to about 53 wt. %,
about 49 wt. % to about 53 wt. %, about 51 wt. % to about 54 wt. %,
about 51 wt. % to about 53 wt. %, about 46 wt. % to about 50 wt. %,
about 46 wt. % to about 49 wt. %, or about 47 wt. % to about 49 wt.
% SiO.sub.2. Desirably, the mineral complex comprises less than 56
wt. % (e.g., about 45 wt. %, about 46 wt. %, about 47 wt. %, about
48 wt. %, about 49 wt. %, about 50 wt. %, about 51 wt. %, about 52
wt. %, about 53 wt. %, about 54 wt. %, or about 55 wt. %)
SiO.sub.2.
[0029] The mineral complex of the invention also may comprise an
iron oxide (e.g., FeO, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, or Fe.sub.3O.sub.4). For
example, the mineral complex may comprise about 6 wt. % to about 16
wt. %, about 8 wt. % to about 16 wt. % (e.g., about 8 wt. %, about
9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13
wt. %, about 14 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, or about 16 wt %), about 8
wt. % to about 12 wt. %, about 9 wt. % to about 15 wt. %, about 10
wt. % to about 14 wt. %, about 9 wt. % to about 14 wt. %, about 10
wt. % to about 13 wt. %, about 12 wt. % to about 14 wt. %, or about
12 wt. % to about 16 wt. % FeO, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, or
Fe.sub.3O.sub.4.
[0030] The mineral complex of the invention also may comprise
calcium oxide (CaO). For example, the mineral complex may comprise
about 4 wt. % to about 12 wt. %., about 6 wt. % to about 12 wt. %.,
about 6 wt. % to about 11 wt. %. (e.g., about 6 wt. %, about 7 wt.
%, about 8 wt. %, about 9 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 11 wt. %),
about 6 wt. % to about 10 wt. %, about 7 wt. % to about 10 wt. %,
or about 7 wt. % to about 9 wt. % CaO.
[0031] The mineral complex of the invention also may comprise
magnesium oxide (MgO). For example, the mineral complex may
comprise about 2 wt. % to about 8 wt. %, about 4 wt. % to about 8
wt. % (e.g., about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 6 wt. %, about 7
wt. %, or about 8 wt. %), about 4 wt. % to about 6 wt. %, about 5
wt. % to about 8 wt. %, about 4 wt. % to about 7 wt. %, or about 5
wt. % to about 6 wt. % MgO.
[0032] It is contemplated that the foregoing ranges of each
component of the mineral complex may be present in the mineral
complex in any combination. For example, the mineral complex may
comprise about 40 wt. % to about 60 wt. % SiO.sub.2, about 6 wt. %
to about 16 wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 4 wt. % to about 12 wt. %.
CaO, and about 2 wt. % to about 8 wt. % MgO, or the mineral complex
may comprise about 40 wt. % to about 60 wt. % SiO.sub.2, about 12
wt. % to about 16 wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 7 wt. % to about 11
wt. %. CaO, and about 2 wt. % to about 8 wt. % MgO. Additional
exemplary mineral complexes may comprise about 47 wt. % to about 54
wt. % SiO.sub.2, about 9 wt. % to about 15 wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3,
about 6 wt. % to about 10 wt. % CaO, and about 4 wt. % to about 7
wt. % MgO; about 48 wt. % to about 53 wt. % SiO.sub.2, about 10 wt.
% to about 14 wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 6 wt. % to about 9 wt. %
CaO, and about 4 wt. % to about 6 wt. % MgO; about 49 wt. % to
about 53 wt. % SiO.sub.2, about 9 wt. % to about 12 wt. %
Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 7 wt. % to about 9 wt. % CaO, and about 5
wt. % to about 6 wt. % MgO; or about 47 wt. % to about 49 wt. %
SiO.sub.2, about 12 wt. % to about 15 wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about
8 wt. % to about 10 wt. % CaO, and about 5 wt. % to about 7 wt. %
MgO.
[0033] Preferably, the mineral complex comprises about 47 to about
49 (about 48) wt. % SiO.sub.2, about 13 to about 15 (about 14) wt.
% Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 8 to about 10 (about 9) wt. % CaO, and
about 5 to about 7 (about 6) wt. % MgO. In another embodiment, the
mineral complex comprises about 49 to about 51 (about 50) wt. %
SiO.sub.2, about 12 to about 14 (about 13) wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3,
about 8 to about 10 (about 9) wt. % CaO, and about 5 to about 7
(about 6) wt. % MgO. In yet another preferred embodiment, the
mineral complex comprises about 52 to about 54 (about 53) wt. %
SiO.sub.2, about 9 to about 11 (about 10) wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3,
about 6 to about 8 (about 7) wt. % CaO, and about 4 to about 6
(about 5) wt. % MgO.
[0034] The mineral complex of the invention also may further
comprise aluminum oxide (Al.sub.2O.sub.3). Preferably, the mineral
complex may comprise less than about 16 wt. % Al.sub.2O.sub.3
(e.g., about 15.5 wt. % or less). For example, the mineral complex
may comprise about 9 wt. % to about 15 wt. % (e.g., about 10 wt. %,
about 11 wt. %, about 12 wt. %, about 13 wt. %, about 14 wt. %,
about 15 wt. %), about 12 wt. % to about 15 wt. %, about 13 wt. %
to about 15 wt. %, about 14 wt. % to about 15 wt. %, or about 13.5
wt. % to about 15.5 wt. % Al.sub.2O.sub.3. The mineral complex of
the invention also may further comprise sodium oxide (Na.sub.2O).
For example, the mineral complex comprises about 1 wt. % to about 4
wt. % or about 2 wt. % to about 3 wt. % (e.g., about 2 wt. %, about
2.5 wt. %, or about 3 wt. %) Na.sub.2O.
[0035] In one embodiment of the invention, the mineral complex
comprises about 46 wt. % to about 50 wt. % SiO.sub.2, about 12 wt.
% to about 14 wt. % Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, about 8 wt. % to about 10 wt.
% CaO, about 5 wt. % to about 7 wt. % MgO, about 14 wt. % to about
16 wt. % Al.sub.2O.sub.3, and about 1 wt. % to about 4 wt. %
Na.sub.2O.
[0036] Desirably, the mineral complex also may comprise at least
one or more rare earth elements (e.g., at least two, at least
three, at least four, or at least five). As defined by IUPAC, rare
earth elements (which include for purposes of the invention that
which may be referred to as rare earth metals) are a collection of
seventeen chemical elements in the periodic table, namely scandium
(Sc), yttrium (Y), and the fifteen lanthanoids: lanthanum (La),
cerium (Ce), praseodymium (Pr), neodymium (Nd), promethium (Pm),
samarium (Sm), europium (Eu), gadolinium (Gd), terbium (Tb),
dysprosium (Dy), holmium (Ho), erbium (Er), thulium (Tm), ytterbium
(Yb), and lutetium (Lu). The rare earth elements are also referred
to as light rare earth elements (lanthanum, cerium praseodymium,
neodymium, promethium, and samarium) and heavy rare earth elements
(europium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, holmium, erbium,
thulium, ytterbium, and lutetium). Scandium and yttrium are
considered rare earths since they tend to occur in the same ore
deposits as the lanthanoids and exhibit similar chemical
properties.
[0037] In this regard, the mineral complex may comprise one or more
rare earth elements selected from the group consisting of scandium,
yttrium, lanthanum, cerium praseodymium, neodymium, promethium,
samarium, europium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, holmium,
erbium, thulium, ytterbium, and lutetium. It is desirable that the
mineral complex comprise at least one light rare earth element and
at least one heavy rare earth element. In other embodiments, the
mineral complex may comprise only light rare earth elements or only
heavy rare earth elements. In a preferred embodiment, the mineral
complex may comprise less than 50 ppm of each rare earth element.
For example, the mineral complex may comprise about 40 ppm, about
30 ppm, about 25 ppm, about 20 ppm, about 15 ppm, about 10 ppm,
about 5 ppm, about 4 ppm, about 3 ppm, about 2 ppm, about 1 ppm, or
about 0.5 ppm of one or more rare earth elements. In another
embodiment the mineral complex may comprise about 0.5 ppm to about
49 ppm, about 0.5 ppm to about 40 ppm, about 0.5 ppm to about 30
ppm, about 0.5 ppm to about 25 ppm, about 0.5 ppm to about 20 ppm,
about 0.5 ppm to about 15 ppm, about 0.5 ppm to about 10 ppm, about
0.5 ppm to about 5 ppm, about 0.5 ppm to about 1 ppm, or about 0.5
ppm of one or more rare earth elements.
[0038] In a further embodiment, the mineral complex may comprise
one or more of the following oxidized components: potassium oxide
(K.sub.2O), chromium oxide (Cr.sub.2O.sub.3), titanium oxide
(TiO.sub.2), manganese oxide (MnO), phosphorous oxide
(P.sub.2O.sub.5), strontium oxide (SrO), and barium oxide (BaO).
For example, the mineral complex may comprise about 0.001 wt. % to
about 3 wt. %. about 0.01 wt. % to about 3 wt. %, about 0.01 wt. %
to about 2 wt. %, about 0.1 wt. % to about 1 wt. %, or about 0.5
wt. % to about 1 wt. % K.sub.2O, Cr.sub.2O.sub.3, TiO.sub.2, MnO,
P.sub.2O.sub.5, SrO, and/or BaO. In one embodiment, the mineral
complex comprises less than about 3 wt. % (e.g., about 2.5 wt. %,
about 2 wt. %, about 1.5 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 0.5 wt. %, or
less than 0.5 wt. %) K.sub.2O, Cr.sub.2O.sub.3, TiO.sub.2, MnO,
P.sub.2O.sub.5, SrO, and/or BaO. In another embodiment, the mineral
complex comprises one or more of the following: about 0.5 wt. % to
about 0.9 wt. % K.sub.2O, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.03 wt. %
Cr.sub.2O.sub.3, about 1.0 wt. % to about 2.0 wt. % TiO.sub.2,
about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.3 wt. % MnO, about 0.1 wt. % to about
0.3 wt. % P.sub.2O.sub.5, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.05 wt. % SrO,
and/or about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.03 wt. % BaO.
[0039] The mineral complex of the invention also may comprise
carbon (C). Preferably, the mineral complex comprises less than
about 2 wt. % C. For example, the mineral complex may comprise
about 1.5 wt. %, about 1.0 wt. %, about 0.5 wt. %, about 0.25 wt.
%, about 0.1 wt. %, about 0.05 wt. %, about 0.04 wt. %, about 0.03
wt. %, or less than about 0.03 wt. % C. The mineral complex of the
invention also may comprise sulfur (S). Preferably, the mineral
complex comprises less than 1% S. For example, the mineral complex
may comprise about 0.9 wt. %, about 0.5 wt. %, about 0.25 wt. %,
about 0.1 wt. %, about 0.05 wt. %, about 0.04 wt. %, about 0.03 wt.
%, about 0.02 wt. %, about 0.01 wt. %, or less than about 0.01 wt.
% S.
[0040] The mineral complex of the invention also may further
comprise at least one or more of (e.g., at least two or more of, at
least three or more of, at least four or more of, or at least five
or more of) the following: silver (Ag), barium (Ba), cobalt (Co),
chromium (Cr), caesium (Cs), copper (Cu), gallium (Ga), hafnium
(Hf), molybdenum (Mo), niobium (Nb), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb),
rubidium (Rb), tin (Sn), strontium (Sr), tantalum (Ta), thorium
(Th), thallium (Tl), uranium (U,) vanadium (V), tungsten (W), zinc
(Zn), and zirconium (Zr). When present, the mineral complex
preferably comprises less than 1000 ppm each of Ag, Ba, Co, Cr, Cs,
Cu, Ga, Hf, Mo, Nb, Ni, Pb, Rb, Sn, Sr, Ta, Th, Tl, U, V, W, Zn, or
Zr. For example, the mineral complex may comprise one or more of
(e.g., at least two or more of, at least three or more of, at least
four or more of, or at least five or more of) Ag, Ba, Co, Cr, Cs,
Cu, Ga, Hf, Mo, Nb, Ni, Pb, Rb, Sn, Sr, Ta, Th, Tl, U, V, W, Zn,
and Zr in the ranges set forth in Table 1.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Range (ppm based on total weight Element of
mineral complex) Ag about 0.0001 ppm to about 10 ppm Ba about 1 ppm
to about 500 ppm Co about 0.01 ppm to about 200 ppm Cr about 1 ppm
to about 400 ppm Cs about 0.0001 ppm to about 50 ppm Cu about 1 ppm
to about 400 ppm Ga about 0.001 ppm to about 200 ppm Hf about 0.001
ppm to about 50 ppm Mo about 0.001 ppm to about 25 ppm Nb about
0.001 ppm to about 100 ppm Ni about 1 ppm to about 400 ppm Pb about
0.001 ppm to about 25 ppm Rb about 1 ppm to about 400 ppm Sn about
0.0001 ppm to about 15 ppm Sr about 1 ppm to about 600 ppm Ta about
0.0001 ppm to about 10 ppm Th about 0.001 ppm to about 200 ppm Tl
about 0.0001 ppm to about 25 ppm U about 0.0001 ppm to about 25 ppm
V about 1 ppm to about 600 ppm W about 0.0001 ppm to about 25 ppm
Zn about 1 ppm to about 400 ppm Zr about 1 ppm to about 400 ppm
[0041] The mineral complex of the invention also may comprise one
or more of (e.g., one, two, three, four, five, or all six of) the
following: arsenic (As), bismuth (Bi), mercury (Hg), antimony (Sb),
selenium (Se), and tellurium (Te). Preferably, the mineral complex
comprises less than 5 ppm of As, less than 5 ppm of Bi, less than 1
ppm of Hg, less than 5 ppm of Sb, less than 5 ppm of Se, and/or
less than 5 ppm of Te. For example, the mineral complex may
comprise one or more of (e.g., one, two, three, four, five, or all
six of) As, Bi, Hg, Sb, Se, and Te in the ranges set forth in Table
2.
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Range (ppm based on total weight Element of
mineral complex) As about 0.0001 ppm to about 4 ppm Bi about 0.0001
ppm to about 4 ppm Hg about 0.00001 ppm to about 0.5 ppm Sb about
0.0001 ppm to about 2 ppm Se about 0.0001 ppm to about 4 ppm Te
about 0.0001 ppm to about 2 ppm
[0042] In one embodiment, the mineral complex described herein has
one or more (e.g., at least two, at least three, at least four, or
at least five) of the following characteristics: an average weight
in tons per cubic yard of about 1 to about 1.5 (e.g., about 1.3); a
loss on ignition of about 0.2% to about 0.3% (e.g., about 0.25%); a
fusion of about 2100 to about 2300 degrees Fahrenheit (e.g., about
2200); a mill abrasion loss (A.R.E.A.) of about 5% to about 6%
(e.g., about 5.4%); a L.A. abrasion loss according to ASTM C535-89
of about 7.2 to about 8.2 (e.g., about 7.7); a L.A. abrasion loss
according to ASTM C 131-89 of about 10.3 to about 11.3 (e.g., about
10.8); a specific gravity according to ASTM C97 of about 2.900 to
about 3.060 (e.g., about 2.980); a specific gravity according to
ASTM C 127 of about 2.900 to about 3.060 (e.g., about 2.980); an
absorption according to ASTM C 127 of less than about 0.5% (e.g.,
less than 0.4%); and/or a soundness loss according to ASTM C 88 Mg
Su of about 0.25% to about 0.75% (e.g., about 0.5%).
[0043] The mineral complex of the invention may be obtained in any
physical size. Preferably, however, the mineral complex is crushed,
ground, and/or milled into a powdered form using any routine
methods known in the art.
[0044] In one embodiment, the mineral complex is in a powdered form
wherein the particles have an average particle size of about 10 to
about 6000 mesh (e.g., about 100 to about 6-000 mesh, about 200 to
about 6000 mesh, about 10 to about 1000 mesh, about 200 to about
4000 mesh). In one embodiment, the particles are very fine and have
an average particle size of about 400 to about 6000 mesh, which
corresponds to a size of about 37 microns to about 1 micron. For
example, and in this embodiment, the particles may have an average
particle size of about 400 to about 6000 mesh, about 400 to about
5000 mesh, about 400 to about 4000 mesh, about 400 to about 3000
mesh, about 400 to about 2000 mesh, about 400 to about 1000 mesh,
about 400 to about 900 mesh, about 400 to about 800 mesh, about 400
to about 700 mesh, about 400 to about 600 mesh, about 400 to about
500 mesh, about 500 to about 6000 mesh, about 600 to about 6000
mesh, about 700 to about 6000 mesh, about 800 to about 6000 mesh,
about 900 to about 6000 mesh, about 1000 to about 6000 mesh, about
2000 to about 6000 mesh, about 3000 to about 6000 mesh, about 4000
to about 6000 mesh, about 5000 to about 6000 mesh, about 500 to
about 5000 mesh, about 600 to about 4000 mesh, about 700 to about
3000 mesh, about 800 to about 2000 mesh, about 900 to about 1000
mesh, about 1000 to about 6000 mesh, about 1500 to about 5500 mesh,
about 2500 to about 5000 mesh, about 3000 to about 4500 mesh, about
3500 to about 4000 mesh, or about 4000 to about 6000 mesh.
[0045] In a related embodiment, the particles are slightly larger,
having an average particle size of about 200 to about 400 mesh,
which corresponds to a size of about 74 microns to about 37
microns. For example, and in this embodiment, the particles may
have an average particle size of about 200 to about 400 mesh, about
230 to about 400 mesh, about 250 to about 400 mesh, about 275 to
about 400 mesh, about 300 to about 400 mesh, about 325 to about 400
mesh, about 350 to about 400 mesh, about 375 to about 400 mesh,
about 200 to about 375 mesh, about 200 to about 350 mesh, about 200
to about 325 mesh, about 200 to about 300 mesh, about 200 to about
275 mesh, about 200 to about 250 mesh, about 200 to about 225 mesh,
or about 250 to about 350 mesh.
[0046] In yet another related embodiment, the particles have an
even larger particle size of about 10 to about 200 mesh, which
corresponds to a size of about 2000 microns to about 74 microns.
For example, and in this embodiment, the particles can have an
average particle size of about 10 to about 200 mesh, about 20 to
about 200 mesh, about 40 to about 200 mesh, about 60 to about 200
mesh, about 80 to about 200 mesh, about 100 to about 200 mesh,
about 120 to about 200 mesh, about 140 to about 200 mesh, about 160
to about 200 mesh, about 180 to about 200 mesh, about 10 to about
180 mesh, about 10 to about 160 mesh, about 10 to about 140 mesh,
about 10 to about 120 mesh, about 10 to about 100 mesh, about 10 to
about 80 mesh, about 10 to about 60 mesh, about 10 to about 40
mesh, about 10 to about 20 mesh, about 40 to about 180 mesh, about
60 to about 160 mesh, or about 80 to about 140 mesh. In a further
related embodiment, the particles have an average particle size of
about 50 to about 400 mesh, about 100 to about 400 mesh, about 120
to about 400 mesh, about 140 to about 400 mesh, or about 170 to
about 400 mesh. The conversion of mesh sizes to microns is well
known in the art.
[0047] The mineral complex described herein is useful in a variety
of different applications, as described herein. Upon referring to
the disclosure provided herein, one skilled in the art will
appreciate that the particle size of the mineral complex may be
selected based on the type of application in which the mineral
complex is being used. For example, if equipment having a fine
nozzle is used for the application or distribution of the mineral
complex, it is preferable to use mineral complex of a size that
will avoid clogging the spray tip (e.g., an average particle size
of between about 1 and 37 microns (a mesh size of 400 to 6000)). In
addition, one skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure
should also appreciate that mineral complex having a relatively
smaller average particle size (e.g., a mesh size of about 400 to
about 6000 or a mesh size of about 200 to about 400)
distributes/suspends/dissolves more readily in any medium, such as
in a pond/lake/marine water, in moisture and bacterial exudates, in
soil, in water used for hydroponics, and the like, as compared to
mineral complex having a relatively larger average particle size
(e.g., a mesh size of about 10 to about 200).
[0048] In addition, one skilled in the art should also appreciate
that in some embodiments of the invention it is desirable to use a
mineral complex comprising a variety of different average particle
sizes. In this regard, it is contemplated that the mineral complex
may comprise any combination of the foregoing ranges of particle
sizes. For example, the mineral complex (and compositions thereof)
described herein may comprise a certain amount of mineral complex
having an average particle size of about 400 to about 6000 mesh,
and/or a further amount of mineral complex having an average
particle size of about 200 to about 400 mesh, and/or an additional
amount of mineral complex having an average particle size of about
10 to about 200 mesh. By way of further example, the mineral
complex (and compositions thereof) may comprise about 5% to about
85% (e.g., about 5%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%,
about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%,
about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, or about
85%) of the mineral complex having an average particle size of
about 400 to about 6000 mesh, and/or about 15% to about 95% (e.g.,
about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%,
about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%,
about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95%) of the
mineral complex having an average particle size of about 200 to
about 400 mesh, and/or about 5% to about 75% (e.g., about 5%, about
10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about
40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about
70%, or about 75%) of the mineral complex having an average
particle size of about 10 to about 200 mesh. For example, the
mineral complex (and compositions thereof) described herein may
comprise about 50% of mineral complex having an average particle
size of about 400 to about 6000 mesh and about 50% of mineral
complex having an average particle size of about 200 to about 400
mesh, or the composition may comprise about 30% of mineral complex
having an average particle size of about 400 to about 6000 mesh,
about 50% of mineral complex having an average particle size of
about 200 to about 400 mesh, and about 20% of mineral complex
having an average particle size of about 10 to about 200 mesh.
[0049] Although average particle size may be conveniently measured
by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in accordance with techniques
known to those skilled in the art, other techniques also may be
used. Desirably, at least 75%, more desirably at least 80%, still
more desirably at least 85%, preferably at least 90%, more
preferably at least 95%, even more preferably at least 96%, still
more preferably at least 97%, more preferably at least 98%, or at
least 99% of the particles have a particle size falling within the
ranges described herein.
[0050] In a related aspect, the invention further provides a
composition comprising a binder and the mineral complex described
herein. The binder, when mixed with the mineral complex, desirably
binds the mineral complex therewithin, forming what may be referred
to as an agglomeration of the mineral complex. This provides for
easier packaging, handling and application of the mineral complex,
with the binder permitting release of the mineral complex therefrom
upon exposure of the composition to water. In a preferred
embodiment, the binder is selected so that it provides for the
extended release of mineral complex from the composition when the
composition is exposed to a water-containing environment.
[0051] Upon referring to the disclosure provided herein, one
skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety of materials may
constitute a suitable binder, including an organic material or a
synthetic material. For example, the binder may be brewers
condensed soluble, cane molasses, beet syrup, beet molasses,
desugared beet molasses, honey, whey, starch, sulfur, wax, polymer,
oil, urea-formaldehyde, plant starches, protein gels, glues,
gumming compositions, seaweed, peat, humic, crystallizing
compounds, gelling clays, synthetic gel-forming compounds, and
mixtures thereof. Additional examples of binders that may be used
herein include carbohydrates, such as monosaccharides,
disaccharides, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides; proteins;
lipids; glycolipid; glycoprotein; lipoprotein; and combinations and
derivatives of the same. Exemplary carbohydrate binders include
glucose, mannose, fructose, galactose, sucrose, lactose, maltose,
xylose, arabinose, trehalose, and mixtures thereof, such as corn
syrup; celluloses, such as carboxymethylcellulose, ethylcellulose,
hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxy-methylethylcellulose,
hydroxyethylpropylcellulose, methylhydroxyethyl-cellulose, and
methylcellulose; starches, such as amylose, seagel, starch
acetates, starch hydroxyethyl ethers, ionic starches, long-chain
alkyl starches, dextrins, amine starches, phosphates starches, and
dialdehyde starches; plant starches, such as corn starch and potato
starch; other carbohydrates, such as pectin, amylopectin, xylan,
glycogen, agar, alginic acid, phycocolloids, chitin, gum arabic,
guar gum, gum karaya, gum tragacanth, and locust bean gum; complex
organic substances, such as lignin and nitrolignin; derivatives of
lignin, such as lignosulfonate salts, including calcium
lignosulfonate and sodium lignosulfonate; and complex
carbohydrate-based compositions containing organic and inorganic
ingredients such as molasses. Suitable protein binders include, for
example, soy extract, zein, protamine, collagen, and casein.
Binders operative herein also include synthetic organic polymers,
such as oxide polymers, polyacrylamides, polyacrylates, polyvinyl
pyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl alcohol,
polyvinylmethyl ether, polyvinyl acrylates, polylactic acid, and
latex. Binders that may provide for the delayed or extended release
of mineral complex from the composition upon exposure to water
include, for example, materials that have relatively low water
solubility.
[0052] The composition comprising the binder and mineral complex
may be combined by any suitable method, including by subjecting
these materials to steam, water, and/or pressure in order to
facilitate the agglomeration of the mineral complex and the binder.
The binder is desirably present in an amount sufficient to provide
for the agglomeration of the amount of mineral complex to be
processed. For example, the composition may comprise from about 0.1
wt. % to about 99.5 wt. % of the binder (e.g., about 0.1 wt. %,
about 0.5 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about
4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 15 wt. %, about 20
wt. %, about 25 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 35 wt. %, about 40 wt.
%, about 45 wt. %, about 50 wt. %, about 55 wt. %, about 60 wt. %,
about 65 wt. %, about 70 wt. %, about 75 wt. %, about 80 wt. %,
about 85 wt. %, about 90 wt. %, about 95 wt. %, about 96 wt. %,
about 97 wt. %, about 98 wt. %, about 99 wt. %, or about 99.5 wt. %
binder). Preferably, the composition comprises from about 0.1 wt. %
to about 50 wt. % binder (e.g., from about 0.1 wt. % to about 5 wt.
%, from about 0.5 wt. % to about 10 wt. %, from about 1 wt. % to
about 20 wt. %, from about 5 wt. % to about 25 wt. %, or from about
10 wt. % to about 50 wt. % binder).
[0053] Preferably, the binder binds the mineral complex into a form
which resists attrition and will not rapidly degrade, and therefore
substantially maintains particle size during handling. If desired,
the binder may be added to the mineral complex as a solution. The
solution is typically provided as a water-based slurry having about
40 to about 50 percent solids by weight and weighing about 10
pounds per gallon. The binder also may be added and mixed with the
mineral complex as a dry ingredient, subsequently mixing in an
amount of water. In addition, the composition may comprise agents
such as surfactants, dispersants, disintegrating agents, wetting
agents and the like.
[0054] Another aspect of the invention provides a composition
comprising a fertilizing agent and the mineral complex described
herein. This composition has many potential applications, and may
be applied in combination with seed during planting, prior to
planting, or anytime thereafter. The application onto maturing
plants, and fully matured plants, also may be beneficial. The
fertilizing agent may be present in the composition in an amount
ranging from about 0.1 wt. % to about 99.5 wt. % (e.g., about 0.1
wt. %, about 0.5 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt.
%, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 15 wt. %,
about 20 wt. %, about 25 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 35 wt. %,
about 40 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 50 wt. %, about 55 wt. %,
about 60 wt. %, about 65 wt. %, about 70 wt. %, about 75 wt. %,
about 80 wt. %, about 85 wt. %, about 90 wt. %, about 95 wt. %,
about 96 wt. %, about 97 wt. %, about 98 wt. %, about 99 wt. %, or
about 99.5 wt. % fertilizing agent). Preferably, the composition
comprises from about 0.1 wt. % to about 50 wt. % fertilizing agent
(e.g., from about 0.1 wt. % to about 5 wt. %, from about 0.5 wt. %
to about 10 wt. %, from about 1 wt. % to about 20 wt. %, from about
5 wt. % to about 25 wt. %, or from about 10 wt. % to about 50 wt. %
fertilizing agent).
[0055] Any suitable fertilizing agent known in the art may be
included in the compositions described herein including, but not
limited to, an organic fertilizing agent, an inorganic (i.e.,
synthetic) fertilizing agent, or combinations thereof. The
fertilizing agent may be a commercially available fertilizing agent
including, but not limited to slow release, soluble, and water
insoluble fertilizing agents. Moreover, certain fertilizing agents
also may be suitable for agglomerating the mineral complex, and
thus may also serve as a binder therefor, as described herein. The
identification of fertilizing agents that are suitable as binders
for the mineral complex may be readily determined by one skilled in
the art.
[0056] Exemplary organic fertilizing agents that may be used herein
include manure, worm castings, compost, seaweed, humic, guano,
brassin, peat moss, and mixtures thereof. Exemplary inorganic
fertilizing agents that may be used herein include nitrogen,
phosphorus, potassium, and mixtures thereof. Additional fertilizing
agents that may be used in accordance with the invention described
herein include urea, sulfur-coated urea, isobutylidene diurea,
ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulfate, ammonium phosphate, triple
super phosphate, phosphoric acid, potassium sulphate, potassium
nitrate, potassium metaphosphate, potassium chloride, dipotassium
carbonate, potassium oxide, urea ammonium sulfate, urea ammonium
phosphate, proteins, amino acids, and combinations thereof.
[0057] Another aspect of the invention provides a composition
comprising mulch and the mineral complex described herein. This
composition may be used for many purposes, but may find particular
utility when applied onto recently seeded areas, or onto areas
wherein plants are beginning to sprout, as the composition as a
whole, and the mulch and mineral complex individually, may assist
in moisture retention, with the mineral complex assisting in
augmenting the growth media. The mulch may be present in the
composition in an amount ranging from about 0.1 wt. % to about 99.5
wt. % (e.g., about 0.1 wt. %, about 0.5 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about
2 wt. %, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 10 wt.
%, about 15 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, about 25 wt. %, about 30 wt. %,
about 35 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 50 wt. %,
about 55 wt. %, about 60 wt. %, about 65 wt. %, about 70 wt. %,
about 75 wt. %, about 80 wt. %, about 85 wt. %, about 90 wt. %,
about 95 wt. %, about 96 wt. %, about 97 wt. %, about 98 wt. %,
about 99 wt. %, or about 99.5 wt. % mulch). Preferably, the
composition comprises from about 0.1 wt. % to about 90 wt. % mulch
(e.g., from about 0.1 wt. % to about 5 wt. %, from about 0.5 wt. %
to about 10 wt. %, from about 1 wt. % to about 20 wt. %, from about
5 wt. % to about 25 wt. %, from about 10 wt. % to about 30 wt. %,
from about 10 wt. % to about 40 wt. %, from about 15 wt. % to about
50 wt. %, from about 20 wt. % to about 60 wt. %, from about 30 wt.
% to about 70 wt. %, from about 40 wt. % to about 80 wt. %, from
about 50 wt. % to about 90 wt. %, from about 70 wt. % to about 90
wt. %, or from about 80 wt. % to about 90 wt. % mulch).
[0058] Any suitable mulch known in the art may be used in the
compositions described herein, and may further comprise an
inorganic mulch and/or an organic mulch. Exemplary inorganic
mulches that may be used in accordance with the invention described
herein include rubber, plastic, rock, gravel, and mixtures thereof.
Exemplary organic mulches that may be used in accordance with the
invention described herein include leaves, hay, straw, bark,
sawdust, wood chips, paper, and mixtures thereof.
[0059] The invention also provides a composition comprising seed
and the mineral complex described herein. The composition may
comprise any type of seed known in the art. Preferably, the seed is
grass seed, wild flower seed, indigenous seed or seed which matures
into a cultivatable crop, such as soybeans, corn, wheat or the
like. Exemplary grass seeds that may be used in accordance with the
invention described herein include Poa, Lolium, Dactylis, Festuca,
Deschampsia, Koeleria, Agrostis, Cynodon, Zoysia, Buchlo, Axonopus,
Eremchloa, Paspalum, Stentaphrum and mixtures thereof.
[0060] The seed may be present in the composition in an amount
ranging from about 0.1 wt. % to about 99.5 wt. % (e.g., about 0.1
wt. %, about 0.5 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt. %, about 3 wt.
%, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 10 wt. %, about 15 wt. %,
about 20 wt. %, about 25 wt. %, about 30 wt. %, about 35 wt. %,
about 40 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 50 wt. %, about 55 wt. %,
about 60 wt. %, about 65 wt. %, about 70 wt. %, about 75 wt. %,
about 80 wt. %, about 85 wt. %, about 90 wt. %, about 95 wt. %,
about 96 wt. %, about 97 wt. %, about 98 wt. %, about 99 wt. %, or
about 99.5 wt. % seed). Preferably, the composition comprises from
about 0.1 wt. % to about 90 wt. % seed (e.g., from about 0.1 wt. %
to about 5 wt. %, from about 0.5 wt. % to about 10 wt. %, from
about 1 wt. % to about 20 wt. %, from about 5 wt. % to about 25 wt.
%, from about 10 wt. % to about 30 wt. %, from about 10 wt. % to
about 40 wt. %, from about 15 wt. % to about 50 wt. %, from about
20 wt. % to about 60 wt. %, from about 30 wt. % to about 70 wt. %,
from about 40 wt. % to about 80 wt. %, from about 50 wt. % to about
90 wt. %, from about 70 wt. % to about 90 wt. %, or from about 80
wt. % to about 90 wt. % seed).
[0061] The mineral composition may be present in any of the
compositions described herein in any amount. The amount of mineral
complex present in each of the compositions described herein can
readily be determined by one of ordinary skill in the art based on
the desired wt. % of the other components of the composition and/or
the desired application rate of the mineral complex. For example,
the mineral complex may be present in the composition in an amount
ranging from about 0.1 wt. % to about 99.5 wt. % of the composition
(e.g., about 0.1 wt. %, about 0.5 wt. %, about 1 wt. %, about 2 wt.
%, about 3 wt. %, about 4 wt. %, about 5 wt. %, about 10 wt. %,
about 15 wt. %, about 20 wt. %, about 25 wt. %, about 30 wt. %,
about 35 wt. %, about 40 wt. %, about 45 wt. %, about 50 wt. %,
about 55 wt. %, about 60 wt. %, about 65 wt. %, about 70 wt. %,
about 75 wt. %, about 80 wt. %, about 85 wt. %, about 90 wt. %,
about 95 wt. %, about 96 wt. %, about 97 wt. %, about 98 wt. %,
about 99 wt. %, or about 99.5 wt. % mineral complex). In one aspect
of the invention, the mineral complex is present in the composition
in an amount ranging from about 0.1 wt. % to about 90 wt. % seed
(e.g., from about 0.1 wt. % to about 5 wt. %, from about 0.5 wt. %
to about 10 wt. %, from about 1 wt. % to about 20 wt. %, from about
5 wt. % to about 25 wt. %, from about 10 wt. % to about 30 wt. %,
from about 10 wt. % to about 40 wt. %, from about 15 wt. % to about
50 wt. %, from about 20 wt. % to about 60 wt. %, from about 30 wt.
% to about 70 wt. %, from about 40 wt. % to about 80 wt. %, from
about 50 wt. % to about 90 wt. %, from about 70 wt. % to about 90
wt. %, or from about 80 wt. % to about 90 wt. % seed). In another
aspect of the invention, the mineral complex is present in the
composition in an amount ranging from about 1 wt. % to about 70 wt.
% of the composition, desirably about 10 wt. % to about 60 wt. %,
more desirably about 15 wt. % to about 50 wt. %, and even more
desirably about 20 wt. % to about 40 wt. % of the composition.
Desirably the compositions described herein comprise about 50 wt. %
or more of the mineral complex, and more desirably about 70 wt. %,
and even more desirably about 80 wt. %, or about 90 wt. % of the
mineral complex.
[0062] The mineral complex, and compositions thereof, described
herein may be dry or may further comprise water to form liquid
compositions. Liquid compositions are particularly useful in
applying the various compositions efficiently over relatively large
areas. When the composition is in the form of a liquid composition,
the composition may comprise between about 10 lbs and about 1000
lbs of mineral complex (e.g., about 10 lbs, about 25 lbs, about 50
lbs, about 75 lbs, about 100 lbs, about 150 lbs, about 200 lbs,
about 250 lbs, about 300 lbs, about 350 lbs, about 400 lbs, about
450 lbs, about 500 lbs, about 550 lbs, about 600 lbs, about 700
lbs, about 750 lbs, about 800 lbs, about 850 lbs, about 900 lbs,
about 950 lbs, or about 1000 lbs of mineral complex) for every
about 100 to about 500 gallons of water (e.g., about 100 gallons,
about 150 gallons, about 200 gallons, about 250 gallons, about 300
gallons, about 350 gallons, about 400 gallons, about 450 gallons,
or about 500 gallons of water). For example, the composition may
comprise between about 25 lbs and about 500 lbs of mineral complex
for every about 100 to about 500 gallons of water, between about 25
lbs and about 500 lbs of mineral complex for every about 200 to
about 300 gallons of water, or between about 50 lbs and about 300
lbs of mineral complex for every about 200 to about 300 gallons of
water. Preferably, the composition comprises between about 25 lbs
and about 500 lbs of mineral complex per about 250 gallons of
water.
[0063] In addition, and if desired, the liquid composition, which
includes the mineral complex, may further comprise between about 5
lbs and about 200 lbs of seed (e.g., about 5 lbs, about 10 lbs,
about 25 lbs, about 50 lbs, about 75 lbs, about 100 lbs, about 125
lbs, about 150 lbs, about 175 lbs, or about 200 lbs of seed) per
about every 100 to about 500 gallons of water (e.g., about 100
gallons, about 150 gallons, about 200 gallons, about 250 gallons,
about 300 gallons, about 350 gallons, about 400 gallons, about 450
gallons, or about 500 gallons of water). For example, the
composition may comprise between about 10 lbs and about 100 lbs of
seed per about every 100 to about 500 gallons of water. Preferably,
the composition comprises between about 10 lbs and about 100 lbs of
seed per about 250 gallons of water. These compositions desirably
are prepared on site, with the dry materials being added to the
liquid just prior to application, as will be understood and
appreciated by those skilled in the art.
[0064] The invention also provides a composition comprising the
mineral complex described herein and at least two additional
components selected from a binder, a fertilizing agent, mulch,
seed, and water. In particular, the composition may be a dry or
liquid composition comprising the mineral complex in combination
with any binder, fertilizing agent, mulch, and/or seed as described
herein. For example, the composition may comprise (a) the mineral
complex, seed, and mulch; (b) the mineral complex, seed, and
fertilizing agent; (c) the mineral complex, seed, mulch, and
fertilizing agent; or (d) the mineral complex, mulch, and
fertilizing agent; wherein any of the aforementioned compositions
optionally comprise water and wherein any of the aforementioned
compositions optionally comprise a binder. Compositions (a) and (c)
may find particular utility in re-vegetation, as will be
appreciated by those skilled in the art.
[0065] The compositions of the invention described herein may be,
if desired, provided in the form of at least one pellet. In one
embodiment, the composition is in the form of a plurality of
pellets. The pelletizing can be accomplished using conventional
pelletizing equipment, such as pelletizing pans and drum
granulators.
[0066] The pellets of the present invention may have an average
diameter of from about 0.1 mm to about 30 mm. For example, the
average diameter of the pellets may range from about 0.1 mm to
about 10 mm, from about 0.25 mm to about 20 mm, or from about 0.50
mm to about 15 mm. The pellets may be formed in any shape,
including spheres, cylinders, ellipses, rods, cones, discs,
needles, and irregular.
[0067] In another embodiment, the invention provides a device in
which the mineral complex (or composition thereof) is enclosed
within a medium, wherein the medium provides for the controlled
release of the mineral complex from the medium when the medium is
exposed to a water-containing environment. Any suitable medium
known in the art may be used. Preferably, the medium comprises a
cellulosic material or a perforated membrane which surrounds the
mineral complex.
[0068] In another aspect, the invention provides a process for
augmenting growth medium comprising applying onto the growth medium
a composition comprising the mineral complex described herein. The
process may further comprise applying water, seed, mulch,
fertilizing agent, or any combination thereof onto the growth
medium. In one embodiment of the invention, the composition
comprising the mineral complex is applied simultaneously with one
or more of water, seed, mulch, fertilizing agent, or any
combination thereof onto the growth medium. For example, the
process may comprise applying onto the medium a composition
comprising the mineral complex and one or more of water, seed,
mulch, or fertilizing agent, as described herein. Alternatively,
the process may comprise simultaneously applying onto the medium a
composition comprising the mineral complex and one or more
compositions comprising water, seed, mulch, fertilizing agent, or
any combination thereof. Any of the compositions comprising the
mineral complex also may comprise a binder, as described
herein.
[0069] In another embodiment of the invention, the composition
comprising the mineral complex is applied onto the growth medium
sequentially with one or more of water, seed, mulch, fertilizing
agent, or any combination thereof. For example, the mineral complex
may be applied to the growth medium prior to the application of
water, seed, mulch, fertilizing agent, or any combination thereof.
Alternatively, the mineral complex may be applied to the growth
medium following the application of water, seed, mulch, fertilizing
agent, or any combination thereof. For example, the mineral complex
may be applied onto the growth medium at least 1 hour (e.g., about
1 hour, about 2 hours, about 3 hours, about 4 hours, about 5 hours,
about 6 hours, about 8 hours, about 10 hours, about 12 hours, about
16 hours, about 20 hours, about 1 day, about 2 days, about 3 days,
about 4 days, about 5 days, about 6 days, about 7 days, or 2 weeks
or more) prior to the application of water, seed, mulch,
fertilizing agent, or any combination thereof, or the mineral
complex may be applied to the growth medium at least 1 hour (e.g.,
about 1 hour, about 2 hours, about 3 hours, about 4 hours, about 5
hours, about 6 hours, about 8 hours, about 10 hours, about 12
hours, about 16 hours, about 20 hours, about 1 day, about 2 days,
about 3 days, about 4 days, about 5 days, about 6 days, about 7
days, or 2 weeks or more) after the application of water, seed,
mulch, fertilizing agent, or any combination thereof.
[0070] The growth medium, for purposes of the present invention,
includes water, soil, and combinations thereof. As used herein, the
term "water" refers to any type of water, such as fresh water
(e.g., water in lakes, ponds, streams and rivers) or salt water
(e.g., oceans). The growth of vegetation and plants in water,
without soil, is referred to as hydroponics.
[0071] As used herein, the term "soil" refers to any type of soil,
such as sand, silt, clay, or combinations thereof. Soil type may be
routinely determined by one of skill in the art in accordance with
any one of the soil classification systems known in the art. For
example, the soil type may be determined using the USDA soil
taxonomy classification system or the World Reference Base for Soil
Resources classification system, which use taxonomic criteria
involving soil morphology and laboratory tests to inform and refine
hierarchical classes. The most common engineering classification
system for soils in North America is the Unified Soil
Classification System. The Unified Soil Classification System has
three major classification groups: (1) coarse-grained soils (e.g.,
sands and gravels); (2) fine-grained soils (e.g., silts and clays);
and (3) highly organic soils (referred to as "peat"). The Unified
Soil Classification System further subdivides the three major soil
classes for clarification. Additional examples of soil
classification systems include the American Association of State
Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) soil classification
system, the Australian soil classification system, the Canadian
system of soil classification, and the Food and Agriculture
Organization of the United Nations (FAO) soil classification, also
called World soil classification.
[0072] In addition, the growth medium may be any combination of
water and soil. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand
and appreciate that a variety of combinations of water and soil
(e.g., about 50 wt. % water and about 50 wt. % soil, about 25 wt. %
water and about 75 wt. % soil, or about 25 wt. % soil and about 75
wt. % water) may be used as the growth medium.
[0073] The growth medium may be bare or may be covered with
vegetation. When applied to vegetation, the compositions described
herein may be applied to root systems, stems, seeds, grains,
tubers, flowers, fruit, foliage, branches, etc., as desired. The
mineral complex (and compositions thereof) may be applied to the
growth medium using any application method known in the art.
Specific application methods that may be useful for the application
of the mineral complex and compositions thereof are described
herein.
[0074] Application of the mineral complex, compositions thereof,
and desirably those which include seed, onto soil that is
classified as clay also is contemplated by the invention. The soil
may be classified as clay in accordance with ASTM D2487 and/or the
soil may be classified as CH, OH, or CL in accordance with the
Unified Soil Classification System. The compositions described
herein have found particular utility in promoting the growth of
vegetation, such as grasses and other plants, in clay soils used to
construct dams, levees and other structures.
[0075] Application of the compositions described herein onto soil
that is classified as sand also is contemplated by the invention.
The soil may be classified as sand in accordance with ASTM D2487
and/or the soil may be classified as SW, SP, SM, or SC in
accordance with the Unified Soil Classification System.
[0076] The compositions described herein also have utility in
promoting moisture retention in soil, such as sand, silt, clay, or
any combination thereof. Thus, in a further aspect, the invention
provides a process for promoting, enhancing and/or increasing
moisture retention in soil comprising introducing into the soil the
mineral complex and/or compositions thereof as described herein.
The mineral complex and compositions thereof described herein are
particularly useful in promoting, enhancing, and/or increasing
moisture retention in sand.
[0077] Enhanced moisture retention in soil refers to an increase in
the moisture (e.g., water) content of the soil into which the
mineral complex and compositions thereof described herein have been
introduced relative to the moisture content of the same type or
classification of soil in which the compositions described herein
have not been introduced (i.e., growth medium that has not been
treated with the mineral complex). For example, the moisture or
water content of the soil into which a composition comprising the
mineral complex has been introduced may increase at least about 1%
(e.g., about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%,
about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%,
about 25%, or more) as relative to soil not treated with the
mineral complex. Methods for measuring the moisture or water
content of soil are known in the art. For example, soil water
content (v/v) can be measured using an EC-5 probe with data
recorded on an ECHO-5 datalogger (Decagon Inc., Pulham, Wash.), as
described in Example 2.
[0078] It is believed that enhanced moisture retention in soil also
may provide an increase in the growth of bacteria (also known as
"bacterial bloom") within the soil. In many instances, these
bacteria can be beneficial to plant growth. Thus, in one related
embodiment, the invention provides a process for promoting,
enhancing, and/or increasing the growth of bacteria that are
beneficial to plant growth within soil, such as sand, silt, clay,
or combination thereof, comprising introducing into the soil the
compositions described herein.
[0079] The mineral complex and compositions thereof described
herein also have utility in preventing, reducing, slowing, or
mitigating erosion of soil, such as sand, clay, silt, and
combinations thereof. Thus, the invention also provides a process
for preventing, reducing, slowing, or mitigating erosion in soil
comprising introducing into the soil the mineral complex or
compositions thereof, as described herein. Desirably, the mineral
complex or compositions thereof are introduced into the soil in an
amount sufficient to provide for the application of mineral complex
thereto in an amount ranging from about 200 lbs per acre and about
10,000 lbs per acre.
[0080] In another aspect, the invention provides a process for
enhancing the germination rate of a seed in a growth medium
comprising implanting the seed in the growth medium and introducing
into or applying onto the growth medium a mineral complex or a
composition comprising the mineral complex, as described herein.
The growth medium may be any type of growth medium, including soil,
water (e.g., hydroponics), and combinations thereof, as described
herein. The mineral complex may be applied onto the growth medium
prior to implantation of the seed, at the time the seed is
implanted, or after implantation of the seed. For example, the
mineral complex may be applied onto the growth medium at least 1
hour (e.g., about 1 hour, about 2 hours, about 3 hours, about 4
hours, about 5 hours, about 6 hours, about 8 hours, about 10 hours,
about 12 hours, about 16 hours, about 20 hours, about 1 day, about
2 days, about 3 days, about 4 days, about 5 days, about 6 days,
about 7 days, or 2 weeks or more) prior to the implantation of the
seed or the mineral complex may be applied onto the growth medium
at least 1 hour (e.g., about 1 hour, about 2 hours, about 3 hours,
about 4 hours, about 5 hours, about 6 hours, about 8 hours, about
10 hours, about 12 hours, about 16 hours, about 20 hours, about 1
day, about 2 days, about 3 days, about 4 days, about 5 days, about
6 days, about 7 days, or 2 weeks or more) after the implantation of
the seed.
[0081] Enhanced germination rate of a seed refers to an increase in
the germination rate of the seed in growth medium in which the
mineral complex described herein has been introduced relative to
the germination rate of the seed in growth medium in which the
mineral complex has not been introduced (i.e., growth medium that
has not been treated with the mineral complex). For example, the
germination rate of the seed may increase by at least about 6 hours
(e.g., about 6 hours, about 12 hours, about 18 hours, about 1 day,
about 2 days, about 3 days, about 4 days, about 5 days, about 6
day, or even about 7 days, or more) as relative to the germination
rate of a seed in growth medium not treated with the mineral
complex.
[0082] In one aspect, the invention provides a process for
enhancing growth in plants in a hydroponic growth medium (i.e.,
wherein the growth medium is water) comprising applying onto the
hydroponic growth medium the mineral complex or compositions
comprising the mineral complex, as described herein. The mineral
complex may be introduced into the hydroponic growth medium prior
to implantation of any plant, at the time a plant is introduced
into the medium, or after a plant is introduced into the medium.
For example, a plant may be introduced into the hydroponic growth
medium at least 1 hour (e.g., about 1 hour, about 2 hours, about 3
hours, about 4 hours, about 5 hours, about 6 hours, about 8 hours,
about 10 hours, about 12 hours, about 16 hours, about 20 hours,
about 1 day, about 2 days, about 3 days, about 4 days, about 5
days, about 6 days, about 7 days, or 2 weeks or more) prior to the
introduction of the mineral complex (or composition thereof) or a
plant may be introduced into the hydroponic growth medium at least
1 hour (e.g., about 1 hour, about 2 hours, about 3 hours, about 4
hours, about 5 hours, about 6 hours, about 8 hours, about 10 hours,
about 12 hours, about 16 hours, about 20 hours, about 1 day, about
2 days, about 3 days, about 4 days, about 5 days, about 6 days,
about 7 days, or 2 weeks or more) after the introduction of the
mineral complex (or composition thereof).
[0083] While the compositions described herein may be applied onto
a variety of soil types, the composition finds particular utility
in remediating sodic soils. Sodic soils are characterized by a
disproportionately high concentration of sodium (Na) in their
cation exchange complex relative to the normal soil type for a
given region (or classification). They are usually defined as
having an exchangeable sodium percentage greater than 15%. These
soils tend to occur within arid to semi-arid regions and are
innately unstable, exhibiting poor physical and chemical
properties, which impede water infiltration, water availability,
and ultimately plant growth. Thus, in one aspect of the invention,
the compositions described herein find particular utility in
remediating soil having an elevated level of sodium (Na) relative
to normal soil. In this regard, the invention provides a process
for remediating soil having an elevated level of sodium (Na)
relative to normal soil comprising applying onto the soil having an
elevated level of sodium relative to normal soil a composition
comprising the mineral complex, as described herein.
[0084] In a related aspect of the invention, the compositions
described herein are applied to saline soil. Saline soil is soil
having an excess of salt relative to normal soil, wherein the
excess salt is predominantly sodium chloride. Thus, in one aspect
of the invention, the compositions described herein find particular
utility in remediating soil having an elevated level of sodium
chloride (NaCl) relative to normal soil. This is believed to be
beneficial in areas that have been subjected to hurricanes and
flooding, wherein land has been subjected to salt deposits from
ocean water, which has in turn reduced plant viability. For
example, the elevated NaCl level in the soil may be from about 25
ppm to about 500,000 ppm, from about 50 ppm to about 250,000 ppm,
from about 50 ppm to about 500,000 ppm, from about 100,000 to about
500,000 ppm, or from about 250,000 to about 500,000 ppm.
[0085] The compositions described herein are also useful in
remediating soil having an elevated level of at least one of
sulfur, calcium, or magnesium relative to normal soil for a given
region (or classification).
[0086] In another aspect of the invention, the compositions
described herein are applied to alkaline soil. Alkaline soil is
soil having a high pH (e.g., a pH of about 8.5 or greater) due to
the presence of excessive sodium carbonate (Na.sub.2CO.sub.3).
Thus, in one aspect of the invention, the compositions described
herein find particular utility in remediating soil having an
elevated level of sodium carbonate (Na.sub.2CO.sub.3) relative to
normal soil (of that region or classification). In a related aspect
of the invention, the composition described herein find particular
utility in remediating soil having a pH of about 8.5 or greater
(e.g., a pH of about 8.5, 8.6, 8.7, 8.8, 8.9, 9.0, 9.1, 9.2, 9.3,
9.4, 9.5, 9.6, 9.7, 9.8, 9.9, or 10), a pH of about 9.0 or greater,
a pH of about 9.5 or greater, a pH of about 8.5 to about 10, or a
pH of about 9 to about 10.
[0087] In a related aspect, the invention provides a process for
enhancing the ability of sodium-enriched soil to support vegetation
comprising applying on to the soil a composition comprising the
mineral complex, as described herein, wherein the soil into which
the mineral complex has been introduced exhibits enhanced
vegetation relative to soil in which the mineral complex has not
been introduced (i.e., soil that has not been treated with the
mineral complex). Sodium-enriched soil refers to soil having a
increased proportion of sodium relative to normal soil. Examples of
sodium-enriched soils include sodic soils, saline soils, and
alkaline soils, as discussed herein. In one embodiment, the process
further comprises introducing seed into the soil onto which the
mineral complex has been applied. In another embodiment, the
process further comprises introducing vegetation into the soil onto
which the mineral complex has been applied.
[0088] The seed or vegetation may be introduced into the soil prior
to, simultaneously with, or after the application of the mineral
complex (or compositions thereof) on the soil. For example, the
seed or vegetation may be introduced into the soil at least 1 hour
(e.g., about 1 hour, about 2 hours, about 3 hours, about 4 hours,
about 5 hours, about 6 hours, about 8 hours, about 10 hours, about
12 hours, about 16 hours, about 20 hours, about 1 day, about 2
days, about 3 days, about 4 days, about 5 days, about 6 days, about
7 days, or 2 weeks or more) prior to the application of the mineral
complex (or compositions thereof) or the seed or vegetation may be
introduced into the soil at least 1 hour (e.g., about 1 hour, about
2 hours, about 3 hours, about 4 hours, about 5 hours, about 6
hours, about 8 hours, about 10 hours, about 12 hours, about 16
hours, about 20 hours, about 1 day, about 2 days, about 3 days,
about 4 days, about 5 days, about 6 days, about 7 days, or 2 weeks
or more) after the introduction of the mineral complex (or
compositions thereof). Exemplary types of seed, as well as
compositions comprising the mineral complex and seed, are described
herein.
[0089] In a further aspect of the invention, a method for
remediating water contaminated by oil or oil-based materials is
provided. This method comprises the steps of applying a composition
comprising the mineral complex described herein into the
contaminated water, and, as an optional second step, removing the
oil and/or oil-based materials from the water after application of
the composition. It is contemplated that this aspect of the
invention may find use in connection with the remediation of either
fresh (e.g., water in lakes, ponds, streams and rivers) or salt
water (e.g., oceans) contaminated by oil and oil-based materials,
particularly water contaminated by crude oil. This being said, the
aforesaid contamination of water may arise under a variety of
circumstances, including without limitation, spillage or seepage
from storage facilities, leaking transport vessels, damaged
pipelines, drilling operations, or improper disposal.
[0090] Desirably, the method may be used in the remediation of
water contaminated by liquid oil and/or oil-based products, as well
as products that are liquifiable. By liquid, it is meant that the
viscosity is such that the material is capable of flowing; such
liquids desirably having a viscosity of less than about 20,000 cp,
and more desirably ranging from about 0.1, 1, 100, 500, 1000 and
2000 cp up to about 5000, 10,0000, 15,000 and 20,000 cp (25.degree.
C.).
[0091] The oil or oil-based contaminants that may be at least
partially removed from water by the inventive method vary widely,
and include, without limitation, crude oil or petroleum, as well as
distilled, extracted and/or refined products thereof such as
industrial oils and oil-based products, e.g., diesel fuel,
gasoline, kerosene, fuel oil, lubricating oil and the like.
Oil-based contaminants may include, without limitation,
oil-containing paints, solvents and coatings.
[0092] The composition may contain other materials in addition to
the mineral complex described herein. By way of example only, the
composition may further include surfactants, dispersants,
emulsifiers, absorbants, enzymes, microorganisms, fungi, nitrate
and/or sulfate fertilizers, and natural materials such as plants,
e.g., grasses, hay, starches, and the like. The inventive method
also may be used in combination with other oil remediation
methods.
[0093] The amount of the composition that may be applied into the
contaminated water may vary depending on the amount of contaminant
present, and may be readily determined by one skilled in the art.
In one embodiment of the invention, the mineral complex and
compositions comprising the mineral complex described herein are
applied onto the water in an amount sufficient to provide therein
mineral complex in an amount ranging from about 25 lbs to about
5,000 lbs of the mineral complex per 5,000 square feet of surface
area of water (e.g., about 25 lbs, about 50 lbs, about 100 lbs,
about 150 lbs, about 200 lbs, about 250 lbs, about 300 lbs, about
350 lbs, about 400 lbs, about 450 lbs, about 500 lbs, about 550
lbs, about 600 lbs, about 650 lbs, about 700 lbs, about 750 lbs,
about 800 lbs, about 850 lbs, about 900 lbs, about 950 lbs, about
1,000 lbs, about 1,500 lbs, about 2,000 lbs, about 2,500 lbs, about
3,000 lbs, about 3,500 lbs, about 4,000 lbs, or about 4,500 lbs per
5,000 square feet of surface area of water). Desirably, the mineral
complex and compositions comprising the mineral complex described
herein are applied onto the water to provide therein between about
50 lbs and about 500 lbs of the mineral complex per 5,000 square
feet of surface area of water.
[0094] The frequency of the application of the composition into the
contaminated water may vary depending on the amount of contaminant
present, and may be readily determined by one skilled in the art.
In one embodiment of the invention, the process comprises repeating
the application of the composition onto the contaminated water at
least once after the initial application thereof. The application
of the composition may be repeated at any suitable time interval
following the initial application, such as 1 week, 2 weeks, 3
weeks, 4 weeks, 1 month, or 2 months, or more after the initial
application. In some embodiments, the composition is applied to the
contaminated water on a regular basis (e.g., the composition is
applied to the contaminated water every week, every 2 weeks, every
3 weeks, every 4 weeks, every 5 weeks, every 6 weeks, every 7
weeks, every 8 weeks, every 9 weeks, or every 10 weeks). The total
length of the treatment of the contaminated water may vary
depending on the amount of the contaminant present, and may readily
determined by one skilled in the art. For example, the composition
may be applied on a regular basis until all of the contaminant is
removed from the water. In some embodiments, the composition is
applied to the contaminated water on a regular basis for at least 3
months, at least 6 months, at least 9 months, or at least 1 year
until all of the contaminant is removed from the water.
[0095] After application, the composition may remain resident in
the contaminated water for a period of time, after which the
composition and contaminants may, if desired, be removed and/or
separated from the water by available mechanical means, e.g.,
vacuum, pumping, collection via booms, followed by a separation
process such as, e.g., filtration, and other known liquid/solid
separation processes.
[0096] In one aspect, the invention provides a process for
remediating contaminated soil comprising introducing into the soil
the compositions described herein. The contaminated soil may be
sand, silt, clay, or any combination thereof. Many different types
of soil contamination are known in the art. The inventive process
described herein may be used to treat any soil that is determined
by one of ordinary skill in the art to be contaminated relative to
normal soil. For example, the soil may be contaminated with one or
more of the following: asbestos, radioactive substances, sewage,
oil, fuel, pesticides, solvents, landfill waste, chemicals, or
heavy metals. Soil that is contaminated with heavy metals may be
contaminated with at least one of lead, mercury, zinc cadmium, or
chromium.
[0097] Soil that is contaminated with oil and/or fuel, such as
petroleum, may have an elevated level of hydrocarbons relative to
normal soil. Thus, in one embodiment, the compositions described
herein are used to remediate soil having an elevated level of
hydrocarbons, e.g., soil that has been subjected to an oil
spill.
[0098] The contaminated soil may be bare or may comprises
vegetation prior to the introduction of mineral complex or
compositions thereof. If the contaminated soil comprises
vegetation, the application or introduction of the mineral complex
to the contaminated soil is expected to increase or enhance the
growth of the existing vegetation. For example, the growth of the
existing vegetation may be increased by at least about 5% (e.g.,
about 5%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%,
about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, or more) relative to
the growth of vegetation on contaminated soil into which the
mineral complex has not been introduced.
[0099] In another aspect, the process further comprises introducing
vegetation into the contaminated soil into which the mineral
complex has been introduced or applied. The vegetation may be
introduced to the contaminated soil, either prior to,
simultaneously with, or after, the introduction of the composition
comprising the mineral complex. In a related aspect of the
invention, the process further comprising applying seed to the
contaminated soil, either prior to, simultaneously with, or after,
the introduction or application of the mineral complex or
composition thereof. For example, the vegetation or seed may be
introduced into the soil at least 1 hour (e.g., about 1 hour, about
2 hours, about 3 hours, about 4 hours, about 5 hours, about 6
hours, about 8 hours, about 10 hours, about 12 hours, about 16
hours, about 20 hours, about 1 day, about 2 days, about 3 days,
about 4 days, about 5 days, about 6 days, about 7 days, or 2 weeks
or more) prior to the introduction of the composition comprising
the mineral complex or the vegetation or seed may be introduced
into the soil at least 1 hour (e.g., about 1 hour, about 2 hours,
about 3 hours, about 4 hours, about 5 hours, about 6 hours, about 8
hours, about 10 hours, about 12 hours, about 16 hours, about 20
hours, about 1 day, about 2 days, about 3 days, about 4 days, about
5 days, about 6 days, about 7 days, or 2 weeks or more) after the
introduction of the composition comprising the mineral complex.
Exemplary types of seed, as well as compositions comprising the
mineral complex and seed, are described herein.
[0100] The mineral complex and compositions comprising the mineral
complex, as described herein, may be applied for purposes of soil
remediation at a rate of between about 200 lbs per acre and about
10,000 lbs per acre (e.g., about 200 to about 10,000 lbs per acre,
about 200 to about 9,000 lbs per acre, about 200 to about 8,000 lbs
per acre, about 200 to about 7,000 lbs per acre, about 200 to about
6,000 lbs per acre, about 200 to about 5,000 lbs per acre, about
200 to about 4,000 lbs per acre, about 200 to about 3,000 lbs per
acre, about 200 to about 2,000 lbs per acre, about 200 to about
1,000 lbs per acre, about 200 to about 900 lbs per acre, about 200
to about 800 lbs per acre, about 200 to about 700 lbs per acre,
about 200 to about 600 lbs per acre, about 300 to about 500 lbs per
acre, about 300 to about 400 lbs per acre, about 400 to about 6,000
lbs per acre, about 500 to about 5,000 lbs per acre, about 600 to
about 4,000 lbs per acre, about 700 to about 3,000 lbs per acre,
about 800 to about 2,000 lbs per acre, or about 900 lbs per acre,
about 1,000 lbs per acre, about 2,000 lbs per acre, or about 3,000
lbs per acre). Desirably, the mineral complex and compositions
comprising the same are applied at about 250 lbs to about 5000 lbs
per acre (e.g., about 250 lbs, about 300 lbs, about 350 lbs, about
400 lbs, about 450 lbs, about 500 lbs, about 550 lbs, about 600
lbs, about 650 lbs, about 700 lbs, about 750 lbs, about 800 lbs,
about 850 lbs, about 900 lbs, about 950 lbs, about 1000 lbs, about
1500 lbs, about 2000 lbs, about 2500 lbs, about 3000 lbs, about
3500, about 4000 lbs, about 4500 lbs, or about 5000 lbs per acre).
In a preferred embodiment, the mineral complex and compositions
comprising the same are applied at about 200 lbs to about 3,000 lbs
per acre or at about 1,000 lbs to about 3,000 lbs per acre.
[0101] The invention also provides a method for stimulating
reproductive growth in plants, which method comprises applying the
mineral complex or compositions thereof, as described herein, to
the plants or to the environment thereof. The invention also
provides a method for stimulating or accelerating the germination
time of seeds, which method comprises applying the mineral complex
described herein to the seeds or to the environment thereof. The
invention also provides a method for promoting maturity in plants,
which method comprises applying the mineral complex or compositions
thereof, as described herein, to the plants or to the environment
thereof. The invention also provides a method of increasing
flowering or for accelerating the onset of flowering in plants,
which method comprises applying the mineral complex or compositions
thereof, as described herein, to the plants or to the environment
thereof. The invention also provides a method for improving or
accelerating the onset of coloration in plants, which method
comprises applying the mineral complex or compositions thereof, as
described herein, to the plants or to the environment thereof. The
invention also provides a method for improving or accelerating the
onset of fruiting in plants, which method comprises applying the
mineral complex or compositions thereof, as described herein, to
the plants or to the environment thereof. Unless otherwise noted by
context, the environment of the plants or seeds includes any water,
air, soil, fertilizer, or mulch surrounding the plants or
seeds.
[0102] The mineral complex and compositions comprising the mineral
complex, as described herein, may be applied to a solid (e.g., soil
or vegetation) or a liquid (e.g., water) surface, as described
herein, in any conventional manner. In one embodiment, the mineral
complex and compositions comprising the mineral complex are applied
to soil, water, or vegetation in dry form. For example, a
conventional spreader or sprayer may be used to distribute the dry
form of the mineral complex and compositions comprising the same
over the soil, water, or vegetation. In one embodiment, the mineral
complex and compositions comprising the mineral complex are applied
onto the solid or liquid surface in dry form by spraying.
Alternatively, the mineral complex and compositions comprising the
same may be applied in bulk to soil or vegetation and then manually
spread or raked over the soil or vegetation. In a related
embodiment, the mineral complex and compositions comprising the
mineral complex may be applied in bulk to water and thereafter,
desirably, the water may be agitated in order to distribute the
mineral complex relatively uniformly throughout the water prior to
application. Similar mixing and dispersing methods may be employed
to apply dry formulations comprising binder, seed, mulch,
fertilizing agent, or any combination thereof.
[0103] In another embodiment, the mineral complex and compositions
comprising the mineral complex, as described herein, are applied to
soil, water, or vegetation in dry or in liquid form. In the latter
regard, water may be added to the mineral complex or the
composition comprising the mineral complex as described herein. The
amount of water to be added may be routinely determined by one of
ordinary skill in the art depending on the particular application
method employed. Exemplary methods of applying liquid formulations
include pumping, spraying, e.g., by means of an electrostatic or
other conventional sprayer, or drip irrigation methods or
fertigation systems, which involve application directly to the
soil. Examples of conventional sprayers include hydroseeders and
backpack sprayers. In a preferred embodiment, the mineral complex
and compositions comprising the mineral complex are applied onto a
solid or liquid surface (e.g., soil, vegetation, or water) in
liquid form by spraying. Similar methods may be employed to apply
liquid formulations comprising binder, seed, mulch, fertilizing
agent, or any combination thereof.
[0104] The mineral complex and compositions comprising the mineral
complex also may be applied from the air using any method known in
the art, such as a crop-duster, a helicopter, or a cargo plane;
from the ground using any method known in the art, such as a dump
truck, a conventional spreader, or a conventional sprayer; or from
the water, using any method known in the art, such as a barge or
boat.
[0105] When the mineral complex and compositions comprising the
mineral complex, as described herein, are applied to land, such as
for purposes of augmenting or remediating a solid growth medium,
such as soil or vegetation, or preventing or mitigating erosion of
soil, as described herein, the mineral complex, or composition
thereof, that may be applied is an amount sufficient to provide for
application of the desired amount of mineral complex thereto. For
example, the mineral complex is applied in an amount ranging from
about 200 lbs per acre and about 10,000 lbs per acre (e.g., about
200 to about 10,000 lbs per acre, about 200 to about 9,000 lbs per
acre, about 200 to about 8,000 lbs per acre, about 200 to about
7,000 lbs per acre, about 200 to about 6,000 lbs per acre, about
200 to about 5,000 lbs per acre, about 200 to about 4,000 lbs per
acre, about 200 to about 3,000 lbs per acre, about 200 to about
2,000 lbs per acre, about 200 to about 1,000 lbs per acre, about
200 to about 900 lbs per acre, about 200 to about 800 lbs per acre,
about 200 to about 700 lbs per acre, about 200 to about 600 lbs per
acre, about 300 to about 500 lbs per acre, about 300 to about 400
lbs per acre, about 400 to about 6,000 lbs per acre, about 500 to
about 5,000 lbs per acre, about 600 to about 4,000 lbs per acre,
about 700 to about 3,000 lbs per acre, about 800 to about 2,000 lbs
per acre, or about 900 lbs per acre, about 1,000 lbs per acre,
about 2,000 lbs per acre, or about 3,000 lbs per acre). Preferably,
the amount of mineral complex, whether applied alone or as part of
a composition, is applied at about 250 lbs to about 5000 lbs per
acre (e.g., about 250 lbs, about 300 lbs, about 350 lbs, about 400
lbs, about 450 lbs, about 500 lbs, about 550 lbs, about 600 lbs,
about 650 lbs, about 700 lbs, about 750 lbs, about 800 lbs, about
850 lbs, about 900 lbs, about 950 lbs, about 1000 lbs, about 1500
lbs, about 2000 lbs, about 2500 lbs, about 3000 lbs, about 3500,
about 4000 lbs, about 4500 lbs, or about 5000 lbs per acre), more
preferably at about 200 lbs to about 3,000 lbs per acre, and more
preferably at about 1,000 lbs to about 3,000 lbs per acre.
[0106] When the mineral complex and compositions comprising the
mineral complex, as described herein, are applied to water, such as
for purposes of augmenting a growth medium comprising water (e.g.,
in hydroponics) or remediating contaminated water, as described
herein, the mineral complex, or composition thereof, is applied in
an amount sufficient to provide for the application of the mineral
complex in an amount of from about 25 lbs and about 5000 lbs of the
mineral complex per 5,000 square feet of surface area of water
(e.g., about 25 lbs, about 50 lbs, about 100 lbs, about 150 lbs,
about 200 lbs, about 250 lbs, about 300 lbs, about 350 lbs, about
400 lbs, about 450 lbs, about 500 lbs, about 550 lbs, about 600
lbs, about 650 lbs, about 700 lbs, about 750 lbs, about 800 lbs,
about 850 lbs, about 900 lbs, about 950 lbs, about 1,000 lbs, about
1,500 lbs, about 2,000 lbs, about 2,500 lbs, about 3,000 lbs, about
3,500 lbs, about 4,000 lbs, or about 4,500 lbs per 5,000 square
feet of surface area of water). Preferably, the amount of mineral
complex, whether applied alone or as part of a composition, is
applied onto the water at from about 50 lbs and about 500 lbs of
the mineral complex per 5,000 square feet of surface area of
water.
[0107] The following examples further illustrate the invention but,
of course, should not be construed as in any way limiting its
scope.
Example 1
[0108] This example demonstrates the chemical analysis of several
different mineral complexes.
[0109] Two mineral complexes (complex 1 and complex 2) were
obtained from a natural mineral source and crushed/milled to a
particle size of 200 to 400 mesh (a fine dust). A chemical analysis
was used to determine the components of each mineral complex, as
set forth in Table 3. A third mineral complex (complex 3) was
prepared by mixing 95 wt. % of complex 1 with 5 wt. % of complex 2.
A fourth mineral complex (complex 4) was prepared by mixing 85 wt.
% of complex 1 with 15 wt. % of complex 2.
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Complex 1 Complex 2 Complex 3 Complex 4
SiO.sub.2 47.6% 65.9% 48.52% 50.35% Al.sub.2O.sub.3 14.75% 11.5%
14.59% 14.26% Fe.sub.2O.sub.3 13.6% 1.41% 12.99% 11.77% CaO 9.01%
3.75% 8.75% 8.22% MgO 6.36% 0.81% 6.08% 5.53% Na.sub.2O 2.6% 2.11%
2.58% 2.53% K.sub.2O 0.72% 5.25% 0.95% 1.40% Cr.sub.2O.sub.3 0.02%
<0.01% 0.02% 0.02% TiO.sub.2 1.59% 0.2% 1.52% 1.38% MnO 0.19%
0.02% 0.18% 0.16% P.sub.2O.sub.5 0.2% 0.15% 0.20% 0.19% SrO 0.03%
0.03% 0.03% 0.03% BaO 0.02% 0.09% 0.02% 0.03% C 0.04% 0.62% 0.07%
0.13% S <0.01% 0.025% <0.01% <0.01% Ag <1 ppm <1 ppm
<1 ppm <1 ppm Ba 199 ppm 450 ppm 211.55 ppm 236.65 ppm Ce 32
ppm 220 ppm 41.4 ppm 60.20 ppm Co 58 ppm 21 ppm 56.15 ppm 52.45 ppm
Cr 170 ppm 6 ppm 161.80 ppm 145.40 ppm Cs 0.72 ppm 22 ppm 1.78 ppm
3.91 ppm Cu 190 ppm 12 ppm 181.10 ppm 163.30 ppm Dy 5.63 ppm 2.5
ppm 5.47 ppm 5.16 ppm Er 3.21 ppm 1.7 ppm 3.13 ppm 2.98 ppm Eu 1.79
ppm 3.7 ppm 1.89 ppm 2.08 ppm Ga 24.2 ppm 15 ppm 23.74 ppm 22.82
ppm Gd 5.56 ppm 3.7 ppm 5.47 ppm 5.28 ppm Hf 3.9 ppm 21 ppm 4.76
ppm 6.47 ppm Ho 1.06 ppm 0.6 ppm 1.04 ppm 0.99 ppm La 14.6 ppm 220
ppm 24.87 ppm 45.41 ppm Lu 0.43 ppm 0.5 ppm 0.43 ppm 0.44 ppm Mo 3
ppm 12.5 ppm 3.48 ppm 4.43 ppm Nb 8.6 ppm 40 ppm 10.17 ppm 13.31
ppm Nd 20.6 ppm 5 ppm 19.82 ppm 18.26 ppm Ni 105 ppm 2.5 ppm 99.88
ppm 89.63 ppm Pb 5 ppm 6 ppm 5.05 ppm 5.15 ppm Pr 4.71 ppm 27 ppm
5.82 ppm 8.05 ppm Rb 17.2 ppm 325 ppm 32.59 ppm 63.37 ppm Sm 4.9
ppm 6.2 ppm 4.97 ppm 5.10 ppm Sn 1 ppm 3 ppm 1.10 ppm 1.30 ppm Sr
244 ppm 380 ppm 250.80 ppm 264.40 ppm Ta 0.6 ppm 2.8 ppm 0.71 ppm
0.93 ppm Tb 0.89 ppm 0.8 ppm 0.89 ppm 0.88 ppm Th 1.73 ppm 180 ppm
10.64 ppm 28.47 ppm Tl <0.5 ppm 6 ppm <0.78 ppm <1.33 ppm
Tm 0.45 ppm 0.6 ppm 0.46 ppm 0.47 ppm U 0.48 ppm 6 ppm 0.76 ppm
1.31 ppm V 271 ppm 7.8 ppm 257.84 ppm 231.52 ppm W 1 ppm 26 ppm
2.25 ppm 4.75 ppm Y 29.2 ppm 23 ppm 28.89 ppm 28.27 ppm Yb 2.93 ppm
1.4 ppm 2.85 ppm 2.70 ppm Zn 135 ppm 64 ppm 131.45 ppm 124.35 ppm
Zr 138 ppm 63 ppm 134.25 ppm 126.75 ppm As 0.8 ppm 1.1 ppm 0.82 ppm
0.85 ppm Bi 0.01 ppm 3.5 ppm 0.18 ppm 0.53 ppm Hg <0.005 ppm
0.01 ppm <0.005 ppm <0.006 ppm Sb 0.06 ppm 0.4 ppm 0.08 ppm
0.11 ppm Se 0.6 ppm 0.7 ppm 0.61 ppm 0.62 ppm Te <0.01 ppm 0.022
ppm <0.01 ppm <0.01 ppm LOI 2.76% 6.45% 2.94% 3.31%
[0110] The silicon dioxide content of mineral complex 2 falls
outside of the scope of the mineral complex described herein.
However, mineral complex 2 was successfully combined with mineral
complex 1 to prepare mineral complexes 3 and 4. Mineral complexes
1, 3, and 4 fall within the scope of the invention described
herein. Additional mineral complexes falling within the scope of
the invention described herein can be prepared using mineral
complexes 1 and 2. This example demonstrates the specific
components of three exemplary mineral complexes of the invention
that may be used as a soil amendment.
Example 2
[0111] This examples demonstrates methods for augmenting growth
media, enhancing moisture retention in soil, and enhancing seed
germination using the mineral complex of the present invention.
[0112] A ten week study was initiated in August 2010 on a sandy
loam soil located at the Louisiana State University Agricultural
Center Burden Facility in Baton Rouge, La. Plots (3.times.3 ft)
were arranged in randomized complete block design with four
replications. The plots were treated at 0 and 4 weeks with a
nitrogen source (NH.sub.4NO.sub.3) at a rate of 0, 0.25. 0.5, or
1.0 pounds of the nitrogen source per 1,000 square feet (lbs N/M),
either alone (as a control) or in combination with a mineral
complex comprising a mixture of 96 wt. % of complex 1, as described
in Example 1 (see Table 3) and 4 wt. % of complex 2, as described
in Example 1 (see Table 3).
[0113] The treatment conditions for the control and mineral complex
treated plots are shown in Table 4.
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 Rate of Rates of Mineral Nitrogen Nitrogen
Treat- Complex Fertilizer Appli- Appli- ment Application Analysis
cation cation Group lbs/acre N Source (N--P--K) lbs N/M Frequency
Control NA NH.sub.4NO.sub.3 34-0-0 0, 0.25, 0 and 0.5 and 4 weeks
1.0 Mineral 2000 NH.sub.4NO.sub.3 34-0-0 0, 0.25, 0 and Com- 0.5
and 4 weeks plex 1.0
[0114] Common bermudagrass was seeded at 200 lbs of pure live seed
per acre (PLS/A) to the entire treatment area followed by
application of a mineral complex comprising a mixture of 96 wt. %
of complex 1, as described in Example 1 (see Table 3), and 4 wt. %
of complex 2, as described in Example 1 (see Table 3), at 2000
lbs/acre to half the plots using shakers for more even distribution
across the soil surface. Nitrogen applications were applied using a
3 ft wide drop spreader at the initiation of the trial and 4 weeks
after seeding. Plots were irrigated within twenty-four hours after
mineral complex and nitrogen fertilizer applications and as needed
throughout the trial. During the first 14 days, seed emergence was
recorded daily. Canopy coverage on a scale of 0% to 100% (0%=bare
soil and 100%=complete grass coverage) was visually assessed every
2 weeks for 10 weeks. During the first 60 days of the trial, soil
water content (v/v) was measured using the EC-5 probe with data
recorded on the ECHO-5 datalogger (Decagon Inc., Pulham, Wash.).
This measurement was only recorded for treatments receiving the 1
lbs N/M application rate.
[0115] At the conclusion of the trial, soil cores were collected
from each treatment using a hammer probe core sampler (6.3
cm.times.15 cm, AMS INC., American Falls, Id.) to a depth of 6
inches. Roots were washed to remove soil and debris in preparation
for analysis using the WinRhizo System (Regent Systems Inc.,
Quebec, Canada). The WinRhizo System is an image analysis program
designed to measure root architectural parameters such as total
root length and surface area. Root samples were scanned at 400 dots
per inch (Epson 1680, Epson America Inc, Long Beach, Calif.) and
analyzed using WinRHIZO image analysis software. Root analysis
procedures followed previously published methods of Costa et al
(2001) and Bouma et al. (2000). Prior to scanning, root sample
preparation included immersion in a 1% (v/v) methlyene blue
solution for 15 min followed by de-ionized water washes to remove
excess dye. All data was analyzed as RCBD using SAS statistical
software. Means were separated using Fisher's protected least
significant difference (.alpha.=0.05)
[0116] Common bermudagrass seed emergence occurred within the first
14 days of the trial, as shown in Table 5. Environmental conditions
were extremely favorable for common bermudagrass seed germination,
as shown in Table 6. Although, statistically, the only significant
improvement in common bermudagrass seed emergence occurred at the
highest nitrogen application rate (1.0 lbs N/M) and mineral complex
treatment group, seeds emerged several days earlier in all of the
mineral complex treatment groups (i.e., across all nitrogen
application rates) as compared to the matched controls.
Specifically, seeds emerged between 5 and 7 days in plots treated
with the mineral complex compared to 8 to 10 days for the controls
(treated with nitrogen only) (see Table 5).
TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 5 Effect of the Mineral Complex on Common
Bermudagrass Seed Emerence. Nitrogen Rate Seed Emergence Treatment
(lbs N/M) (days) Control 0 9.3 0.25 8.8 0.50 10.0 1.00 8.5 Mineral
Complex 0 7.5 0.25 6.5 0.50 7.0 1.00 5.8 LSD.sub.(.alpha.=0.05) 3.3
LSD = Fisher's least significant difference
TABLE-US-00006 TABLE 6 Environmental Conditions During Common
Bermudagrass Establishment Total Average Average Average High
Average Low Precipita- High Soil Low Soil Temperature Temperature
tion Temperature Temperature (.degree. F.) (.degree. F.) (inches)
(.degree. F.) (.degree. F.) 88.2 67.1 12.82 94.6 70.6
[0117] Based on soil water content measurements of the 1.0 lbs N/M
application rate for mineral complex and control plots, it was also
observed that the mineral complex-treated soil maintained a higher
soil water content during the first 3 weeks after seeding (see FIG.
1). Increased soil moisture is generally believed to provide a more
conducive soil environment for seedling germination.
[0118] The slight acceleration in common bermudagrass seed
emergence also had a positive effect on increasing groundcover for
the 1.0 lbs N/M application rate and mineral complex treatment (see
Table 7). During the first 2 weeks after seeding, nitrogen
application rates of 0.5 lbs N/M or less exhibited <1% ground
cover for both treatments with the exception of nitrogen
application rate of 0.5 lbs N/M and the mineral complex, which
exhibited a ground cover of 2.5%. In subsequent weeks, all
treatments had increased ground cover, with higher nitrogen
application rates having the highest coverages. As nitrogen
application rates were reduced, common bermudagrass ground cover
declined with the exception of mineral complex and the 0.5 lbs N/M
rate. At 8 weeks after seeding, treatments of 0.5 lbs N/M had 60.8%
and 76.2% ground cover for control and mineral complex,
respectively.
TABLE-US-00007 TABLE 7 Effect of Mineral Complex on Common
Bermudagrass Establishment Nitrogen Bermudagrass Cover Rate 2 4 6 8
10 Treatment (lbs N/M) (%) Control 0 <1 9.8 15.5 30.3 44.5 0.25
<1 10.5 23.3 41.6 68.3 0.50 <1 18.8 39.3 60.8 86.5 1.00 3.0
19.5 47.8 80.5 97.5 Mineral Complex 0 <1 8.0 13.3 28.0 46.8 0.25
<1 12.5 28.8 46.5 72.8 0.50 2.5 19.3 46.8 76.2 96.5 1.00 6.0
22.8 49.5 83.8 95.0 LSD.sub.(.alpha.=0.05) 2.1 5.7 12.2 13.7 16.5
LSD = Fisher's least significant difference
[0119] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, total root length and surface
area increased for both treatments as the nitrogen application
rates increased. Common bermudagrass that received no nitrogen
resulted in the lowest total root length and surface areas. The
mineral complex appeared in this study to had relatively no effect
on rooting at nitrogen application rates of 0, 0.25 and 1.0 lbs N/M
compared to controls at the same nitrogen application rates for
total root length. However, the combination of the mineral complex
and a nitrogen application rate of 0.5 lbs N/M resulted in higher
total root length and surface area compared to controls at a
nitrogen application rate of 0.5 lbs N/M, and were similar to
controls at 1.0 lbs N/M (see FIGS. 2 and 3).
[0120] The results of the experiments reflected in this example
appear to demonstrate that the need for nitrogen application may be
reduced from the rate of 1.0 lbs N/M, the rate that is commonly
applied during common bermudagrass establishment, by the
application of a mineral complex of the invention, namely, a
mineral complex comprising 96 wt. % complex 1 set forth in Table 3
and 4 wt. % complex 2 set forth in Table 3 at a rate of 2000
lbs/acre. Common bermudagrass established using the mineral complex
and a nitrogen application rate of 0.5 lbs N/M exhibited a similar
pattern in ground cover and root development as the 1 lbs N/M
controls. It is believed that the ability of the mineral complex to
enhance bermudagrass establishment may be due in part to its
ability to maintain higher soil water content. By increasing soil
water content, it is further believed that common bermudagrass is
capable of developing a stronger root system that is more effective
at nitrogen uptake, resulting in better plant growth. Because water
is often a limiting factor that negatively affects vegetation
establishment, maintenance of higher soil water content is believed
to be beneficial during grass establishment.
[0121] All references, including publications, patent applications,
and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to
the same extent as if each reference were individually and
specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set
forth in its entirety herein.
[0122] The use of the terms "a" and "an" and "the" and similar
referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in
the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover
both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein
or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprising,"
"having," "including," and "containing" are to be construed as
open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to,")
unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are
merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring
individually to each separate value falling within the range,
unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is
incorporated into the specification as if it were individually
recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in
any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise
clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples,
or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein, is
intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not
pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise
claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as
indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of
the invention.
[0123] Preferred embodiments of this invention are described
herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying
out the invention. Variations of those preferred embodiments may
become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading
the foregoing description. The inventor expects skilled artisans to
employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventor intends for
the invention to be practiced otherwise than as specifically
described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all
modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the
claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover,
any combination of the above-described elements in all possible
variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise
indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.
* * * * *