NPK-Wheels: Vehicle for fertilization of degraded ecosystems

Abstract

The occurrence of erosion, compaction, and loss of organic matter are factors that lead to soil degradation. According to Miguel Taboada, Director of the Soil Department at the National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA), these conditions originate from intensive human exploitation in agricultural lands. Hence, in addition to environmental factors, one of the reasons for soil degradation can be attributed to the specific location. In tropical regions, the lands suffer from high acidification and loss of productivity. In this context, a hypothesis has been formulated regarding the implementation of technology to assist in the nutritional revitalization of soils. Consequently, a tool was developed based on this principle, aiming to improve the land without causing harm to the environment and focusing on sustainable restoration. In light of this scenario, the proposed solution is a device called NPK-WHEELS, designed to transport and distribute small amounts of NPK fertilizer (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) to the soil, considering their beneficial characteristics for the soil's micronutrients, which are responsible for a land's productivity. To gather data regarding the project's efficacy, a prototype was created to simulate the enhancement of these micronutrients in the soil. Consequently, it is hoped that the solution will yield positive results in minimizing human impacts on healthy lands and in aiding the strengthening and nourishment of biodiversity facing soil degradation conditions.