Fertilizer might be stronger than we thought. A new international study featuring faculty at Binghamton University, State University of New York found that fertilizer can help plants survive short-term periods of extreme drought, findings which could have implications for agriculture and food systems in a world facing climate stressors.

A study published in the Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts presents a novel method to improve the anti-fibrillation and multifunctional properties of lyocell fabric through electrostatic adsorption and discontinuous membrane formation. This sustainable approach enhances fabric durability and dyeability without compromising mechanical properties.

Researchers from RISE PFI AS in Norway have successfully utilized Kraft lignin as a wet-strength agent in molded pulp materials, achieving significant improvements in both dry and wet strength. The study, published in the Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts, highlights the potential of lignin to replace plastic packaging while maintaining recyclability and biodegradability.

The research team led by Professor Gang Wang from China Agricultural University systematically summarized the synergistic effects of bio-based material amendments such as microbial inoculants, nanomaterials, and biochar in improving soil health and crop productivity through a review article. The relevant research has been published in the journal Frontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering (DOI: 10.15302/J-FASE-2024586).