Chitosan–biochar composites as eco-friendly seed coatings for sustainable agriculture
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1
Institute of Radiation Problems, Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Baku AZ1143, Azerbaijan
2
Azerbaijan University of Architecture and Construction, Baku AZ1073, Azerbaijan
3
International School of Azerbaijan (TISA), AZ1070, Baku Azerbaijan
Corresponding author
Rana Faig Khankishiyeva
Institute of Radiation Problems, Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Baku AZ1143, Azerbaijan
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ABSTRACT
The synergistic potential of chitosan (CS) and biochar (BC) composites for seed coating remains underexplored. This study aimed to develop and evaluate novel eco-friendly wheat seed coatings based on CS-BC composites to enhance germination, seedling vigor, and soil health under controlled conditions, addressing a critical gap in sustainable seed technology. Coatings were prepared by dissolving chitosan in acetic acid and blending with biochar at specific weight ratios (BC-CS 1:1, 2:1, 4:1). Wheat seeds (Barakatli-95) were dip-coated, dried, and sown in both soil-perlite mixtures and Petri dishes. Germination parameters (germination energy - GE, germination percentage - GP, germination index - GI) and soil organic carbon (OC) were evaluated over 14 days. Results demonstrated that BC-CS composites significantly outperformed both control and CS-only treatments. The BC-CS 4:1 formulation yielded the highest improvements: GE increased by 30% (87.8% vs. 67.6%), GP by 20% (89.5% vs. 74.8%), and GI by 66% (18.6 vs. 11.2) compared to the control. Soil OC content also increased by 12%. This synergistic enhancement is attributed to biochar improving soil structure and nutrient/water retention, while chitosan boosts seed vigor and provides antimicrobial protection. We conclude that BC-CS 4:1 is an optimal ratio for significantly boosting wheat seed performance. While promising, these findings are based on controlled lab conditions; field validation under diverse stresses is essential. These coatings offer substantial practical value by potentially reducing synthetic agrochemical reliance and enhancing climate resilience through improved soil health. This study presents the novel application of a CS-BC composite as a seed coating, demonstrating significant synergistic benefits for sustainable agriculture.