CPC B01J 2/20 (2013.01) [B29C 48/04 (2019.02); B29C 48/297 (2019.02); B29C 48/345 (2019.02); B30B 11/221 (2013.01); C05G 5/12 (2020.02); B29L 2031/7004 (2013.01)] | 20 Claims |
1. A method of making a fertilizer seed core, the method comprising:
supplying a fertilizer component, a liquid component, a binder and a filler to a zoned extruder comprising a die head, a screw, and at least three zones;
supplying the fertilizer component and the binder to the extruder and supplying the liquid component to the extruder following the fertilizer component and the binder;
mixing the fertilizer component, the liquid component, the binder and the filler to yield a thixotropic mixture comprising equal distribution of the fertilizer component, the liquid component, the binder and the filler; and
passing the thixotropic mixture through the die head, wherein the die head comprises openings 0.5 to 4 millimeter in diameter and wherein either one or both of the end of the screw is 1-15 millimeters from the die head and/or the extrusion process has a residence time of 5 to 15 minutes.
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