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PES2020-Prosj.etabl.støtte H2020

Field testing and pre-qualification of novel silicon-based products for use in agriculture in EU

Awarded: NOK 0.12 mill.

The project is aiming at the H2020 "Fast Track to Innovation"-program. Elkem has the last years developed new products based on amorphous silica (bioavailable Si) for use as soil amendment. The products has demonstrated a significant positiv effect on plants that are subjected to biotic and abiotic stress.Tests have been carried out in Norway, Russia and China; in the latter case also field tests on rice, in co-operation with an agricultural institute in Hunan, China.The following conclusion has been written by soil scientist, Dr. Vladimir Matichenkov (MS=Microsilica): "Conclusion The laboratory, greenhouse and field test of MS and MS-based product were conducted in Russia and China. Several additional tests with MS and MS-based products were conducted as well. The obtained results showed that the tested MS-based product can increase the yield of cultivated plants (barley, pea, rice) from 20 to 100% and more, protect plants against biotic and abiotic stresses and reduce the content of mobile heavy metals in soil and total content of heavy metals in the cultivated plants. The MS-based products have several specific and unique properties, which can use in agriculture and in for protection of the environment against pollution. These specific products can be patented or protected by precisely technology for manufacturing or application. The several most prospective areas for MS and MS-based product were selected. There are China (rice), Europe (fruits and vegetables), Australia (sugarcane) and South East Asia (Palm oil plantations)." On this basis Elkem wants to proceed in Europe, prioritized based on an analysis of soil condistions and crop types in different areas in EU.

Funding scheme:

PES2020-Prosj.etabl.støtte H2020