If you have ever purchased phytosanitary products or agricultural fertilizers, you have likely seen abbreviations such as SC, SL, WG, WP, among others, on their labels. These abbreviations are key to understanding the type of formulation and the type of product we are using on our crops. Within this context, we are interested in SC types, as one of the most interesting and promising advances in the field of modern agriculture is the use of concentrated suspension – Flow in foliar nutrition.
This new method of formulation and packaging of fertilizer products is changing the way plants obtain the nutrients they need to thrive. Therefore, we will emphasize concentrated suspensions (SC), focusing specifically on their advantageous role in foliar nutrition.
What is concentrated suspension (SC) or flow?
Concentrated suspension (SC), also known as “flow”, is a liquid formulation used in the manufacture of phytosanitary products and agricultural products, such as herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides.
The SC type formulation is characterized by containing an active ingredient in the form of solid microparticles that are suspended in a liquid carrier. In addition to the active ingredient, the concentrated suspension may contain other components, such as stabilizers and surfactants, which aim to ensure that the suspension remains uniform and stable during storage and application.
The key to concentrated suspension lies in the presence of these solid microparticles, which generally have a size of less than 10 microns (μm). These small particles, which are kept in suspension along with emulsifiers and dispersants, allow the active ingredient to be homogeneously distributed in the liquid carrier, facilitating its application and absorption by plants.
Concentrated suspension in foliar nutrition
Concentrated suspension (SC) in foliar nutrition is a liquid formulation used to deliver nutrients directly to plants through their leaves. In this specific application, concentrated suspensions are used as foliar fertilizers rather than as pesticides, unlike concentrated suspensions in phytosanitary products.
These suspensions contain essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and often micronutrients like iron, zinc, or manganese, suspended in the liquid carrier.
7 advantages of concentrated suspension (SC) formulations in foliar nutrition
Concentrated suspensions or flows in foliar nutrition are generating increasing interest in the agricultural world due to advantages such as those offered:
- Maximum nutrient concentration. Concentrated suspensions (SC) contain substantially higher concentrations of nutrients compared to traditional dissolved products. This is because the active principle is not dissolved but suspended in the formulation. This high concentration allows for more efficient and effective nutrient application to plants.
- Lower applied volume. Due to their high concentration, less SC volume is required to provide the same amount of nutrients compared to more diluted products. Therefore, it reduces transportation and storage costs.
- High absorption rate. The combination of a high nutrient concentration and reduced particle size facilitates rapid and efficient foliar absorption. This absorption occurs progressively, minimizing the risk of phytotoxicity, which is a more common problem with other formulations.
- Ease of use. Concentrated suspensions are liquid formulations, making them easy to handle and apply compared to powdered or granular products. This saves time and resources during application.
- Excellent dispersion in water. SCs mix effectively with water. This ensures a homogeneous distribution of nutrients in the solution. It is essential for uniform application in the field.
- Less reactive in mixtures. Concentrated suspensions are less prone to react with other chemicals compared to more concentrated formulations. This simplifies mixing with other agrochemicals, if necessary.
- Greater safety in handling. Due to their liquid nature and often lower toxicity, concentrated suspensions are safer to handle and store compared to other more concentrated agricultural chemicals.
Tecnologías Verdes Aplicadas, experts in the formulation and packaging of agronutrients and phytosanitary products with SC type products
Foliar fertilization with concentrated suspensions offers notable benefits, as it ensures optimal nutrient absorption and avoids phytotoxicity problems, among other advantages we have presented here. This translates into healthier and more productive crops.
At Tecnologías Verdes Aplicadas, we specialize in the formulation and packaging of agronutrients and phytosanitary products with SC type products (concentrated suspension – flow) and CS (microencapsulated). Thus, we provide agricultural producers with the most effective and appropriate solutions to nourish and protect their crops.
Finally, we are not just a company for the formulation and packaging of phytosanitary products and fertilizers; above all, we are a team involved in helping farmers achieve their goals and prosper in their agricultural production. If you are looking for a reliable solution for your crops, discover what we can offer you in terms of the formulation and packaging of agronutrients by contacting us.
