Bangladesh Agricultural University researchers have developed a new nano biochar-enriched urea that could make fertilizer use cheaper and kinder to the soil. The breakthrough is a tiny, coated urea particle that releases nitrogen slowly so plants can use more of it and less is lost to the air and water. The research team, led by Professor Dr Ahmed Khairul Hasan of BAU with partners from BUET, the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission and BAU soil scientists, has spent several years making and studying these nano materials with support from the Agricultural Research Foundation. Laboratory work shows the particles measure roughly twenty to fifty nanometres and that a coating of nano biochar helps slow the release of nitrogen so crops receive it when they need it. Tests in the lab suggest farmers could use at least twenty five percent less urea while keeping or raising yields, and the new material may lift rice harvests by around ten to twenty five percent and raise grain protein by eight to twelve percent. Scientists also report big cuts in pollution in lab trials: ammonia loss fell by up to ninety percent, nitrate leaching fell by about sixty five to seventy five percent, and nitrous oxide emissions dropped by roughly forty to fifty percent, which could help slow greenhouse gas growth from farming. The team created three kinds of nano-hybrid materials, including hydroxyapatite-urea, urea with nano biochar, and a combined hydroxyapatite-urea-nano biochar, and instruments such as FTIR and TEM confirmed the chemistry and tiny particle sizes. Researchers say these lab results are promising but that field trials are needed to find the right doses for different crops and regions, and those trials are planned after the next Boro season so farmers can test the product under real weather and soil conditions. Experts well outside the team point to two big gains if the trials succeed: lower costs for farmers and less dependence on imported urea, since Bangladesh buys millions of tonnes of fertilizer each year, and better soil health that can keep farms productive for longer. The researchers stressed careful steps ahead, with wide field testing, clear farmer guidance, and simple training so smallholders can use the product safely and effectively. They also noted the need for rules on safe use, recycling of materials, and clear advice from extension services to make sure benefits reach many farms. If field work confirms the lab findings, the nano biochar-enriched urea could help Bangladesh grow more food with less chemical loss, cut bills for growers, and protect water and air near farming areas. The project shows how local science and innovations can offer practical tools to support farmers, save money and reduce environmental harm while strengthening national food security.
