1
The goal of this project is to use a Canadian natural zeolite to develop value-added and highly efficient soilless substrates for growing different greenhouse plants. Zeolites are porous aluminosilicate minerals with a 3D open framework structure in which molecular-size channels pass through the crystal lattice. The unique properties of zeolites allow zeolite- based soilless growing medium, known as zeoponics, to provide all the nutrients required by a plant to grow and to release those nutrients in a controlled fashion that prevents fertilizer washout. I have been working to determine the composition and properties of a commercially available zeolite-based growing medium of a Cuban natural zeolite. With this information different modification approaches can be evaluated and used to develop an eco-friendly Canadian zeolite substrate that supplies all macro and micronutrients necessary for growing healthy greenhouse plants. URE Award Impact Thanks to the Undergraduate Research Experience Award and with the help of Dr. Hosseian Kazemian and Erwin Rehl, I was given the opportunity to work in a research environment while also becoming familiar with the exciting and promising field of zeolites. This experience has introduced me to lab equipment, lab procedures and the capabilities of UNBC’s Northern Analytical Laboratory Services. This will benefit me throughout my career as a student and beyond as I have gained practical laboratory and research skills through hands-on learning. Undergraduate Research Experience Award By: Austin Badger Supervisor: Dr. Hossein Kazemian Semester: Winter 2017 Nitrogen, Phosphorous, and Potassium Content of Selected Zeolites Nitrogen Phosphorous Potassium Natural Cuban Zeolite * 248.467015 mg/kg 10046.79475 mg/kg ** 35.52 % 2.01 % 2.00 % Modified Cuban Zeolite 1470.16624 mg/kg 13488.48100 mg/kg 43.41 % 1.22 % 1.16 % Natural Canadian Zeolite 50.56138 mg/kg 19079.58508 mg/kg 41.27 % 1.59 % 4.19 % *Analysis of zeolite nitrogen concentrations is planned **All percentages were obtained from EDX characterization Organo-Zeolitic Substrate as a Soilless Growing Medium References: Polyhedral sheet in high albite [electronic image]. Retrieved from: http://www.crystalmaker.com. Rodrigues-Fuentas, Gerardo. “Rancho Chinobampo Experimental Center of Zeolite Applications” [Powerpoint Presentation]. Feb 2008. 3D Molecular Structure SEM Image Zeolite Sample Zeolite Growing Medium SEM Image of Canadian Natural Zeolite Conducting ICP-OES Elemental Analysis
