Actagro LLC recently announced the issuance of a new patent for the chemistry underlying its Nutri-Guard technology, including its innovative nitrogen management product, Proximus, by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The patent, titled "Semi-Humic Organic Carbon Material and Methods of Use Thereof," issued as U.S. Patent 10,315,962, is directed toward a substance made by a unique process, with benefits to crop production, including the mitigation of nitrate leaching in agricultural soils.
"This technology, invented and developed exclusively by Actagro scientists, is the first patent for the Nutri-Guard technology platform," notes John Breen, Ph.D., Senior Director of R&D and Regulatory Affairs.
A key component of Proximus recognized in this patent is the ability to enhance the native soil microbiome as a tool in reducing nitrate leaching. "Proximus provides a sustainable solution that improves nitrogen use efficiency when mixed with UAN fertilizer.
This patent is a testament to Actagro's commitment to product development more aligned with a growing demand for agriculture to balance crop performance and profitability, while improving soil health. Some nitrogen management products negatively impact soil microbes. Proximus works fundamentally different by enhancing soil microbes, while increasing yields," says Casey McDaniel, Actagro's Managing Director.
Actagro's commercial portfolio includes over 30 specialty products that are proven to increase crop productivity and financial returns for growers. Actagro also recently opened a new 11,000 square-foot, $9 million research and development facility featuring a high-tech agronomy/soils lab, tissue culture/microbial lab, and discovery chemistry lab; all designed to provide an ideal environment for dynamic product development in value added product solutions.
Actagro LLC is wholly owned by Nutrien, a global leader in agricultural crop inputs.