Dry abrasion reduction in potash granules

ICL Innovation, a technology incubator for the ICL group, is seeking an additive to reduce dry abrasion in partially/wholly spherical potash granules.

Background

Potash granules, when left untreated, might undergo a caking process as well as produce dust from inter-granules abrasion. To mitigate these problems anti-dusting and anti-caking additives are used. As a leading fertilizer manufacturer ICL seeks to improve these additives, focusing on preventing dust from abrasion. Standard potash (KCl) granules are 1.4-4.5mm in diameter. These can either be spherical or pseudo-spherical. Application of the anti-dusting agent should be through spraying, without changing the existing equipment. Attention is given to environmetal concerns, necessitating the additive to be biodegradable.

Information on ICL Fertilizers can be found in the ICL Fertilizers web page.

Our criteria

• Cost below 800 $/ton of additive at 3,000ppm application
• Dust production below 0.08% on a w/w basis
• Biodegradable where the decomposition products are non-harmful to the environment
• Liquid in application by spraying (e.g. melting point <50°C, coagulation point 40-50°C)
• High adhesion to spherical and non spherical 1.4-4.5mm potash granules
• Minimal separation from granules when subject to vibrations
• Thermally stable up to 80°C
• Non toxic

As a technology incubator, ICL Innovation is looking only for innovative technologies that may be further developed and commercialized through a business unit in ICL. 

We Offer

• Full funding for selected technologies
• Analytical laboratories, pilot facilities and high level R&D teams based on ICL's central R&D institute
• A business unit within ICL Fertilizers as an industrial commercialization partner

IP  Collaboration

• Funded research
• Exclusive IP licensing
• Joint development