Ika Atsari Dewi, Lisman Suryanegara, Yukie Saito, Khaswar Syamsu, Farah Fahma
Conventional controlled-release fertilizers often rely on synthetic polymer coatings that are costly, non-biodegradable, and environmentally harmful. Biodegradable alternatives such as microfibrillated cellulose and nanocellulose have attracted significant attention for use as sustainable fertilizer coatings. Their high surface area and mechanical strength enable improved nutrient retention, moisture resistance, and reduced leaching. Cationic modification further enhances coating adhesion and nutrient binding, offering superior control of nutrient release compared with unmodified cellulose. This review evaluates recent progress in the development of cationic cellulose-based coatings, including cost considerations, biodegradation behavior under soil conditions, physicochemical interactions that regulate nutrient release, and potential industrial applications. Challenges and future directions are also discussed, highlighting the role of cationic cellulose in advancing environmentally friendly fertilizer technologies. © 2026 King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok. All Rights Reserved.
Department of Agroindustrial Technology, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia; Department of Agroindustrial Technology, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia; Research Center for Biomass and Bioproducts, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Jawa Barat, Cibinong, Indonesia; Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
