Calcium cyanamide, or CaCN2, is a nitrogenous fertilizer that likewise functions as an herbicide for plant nutrition. Commercially known as Nitrolim, calcium cyanamide is formed when calcium carbide responds with nitrogen. It can be found in powder or granule type and is noncombustible and colorless. It’s no known destructive impacts if consumed in miniscule quantities.
Uses
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service explains calcium cyanamide mostly as a fertilizer. It’s also used as a defoliant, herbicide, fungicide and pesticide. It can additionally be utilized in the manufacturing of iron and used in the procedure of making calcium cyanide, melamine and dicyandiamide. It fights versus numerous root conditions in crops.
Benefits
A 1973 research study conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service showed that calcium cyanamide had helpful effect on yellow-poplar trees. Over a three-year period, the fertilizer was applied to recently planted yellow-poplar saplings, and they grew considerably. By the end of the research study, the application of calcium cyanamide eliminated competing undesirable plant growth and weeds. It was found that calcium cyanamide supplied bountiful nitrogen to the plants, which assisted in development and plant nutrition.
Recent Applications
A study including calcium cyanamide and crop growth was carried out in 2003 in Australia and released by ‘Crop Defense.’ In this research study, calcium cyanamide was utilized as a fertilizer for broccoli to minimize root galling triggered by clubroot, a crop disease. The application of calcium cyanamide regularly minimized clubroot and enhanced the yield of broccoli for that period.
However, upon further application of calcium cyanamide to the broccoli crops, effectiveness was minimized as analysts altered the chemical formula of calcium cyanamide into a granular form. The powder type of calcium cyanamide proved to be the most efficient formulation in this research, as it removed root galling due to clubroot at the highest rate.
An much more effective use of calcium cyanamide was discovered when it was used about 15 cm deep. Scientist discovered that method of use decreased the quantity of calcium cyanamide required by about two-thirds, which also decreased the cost of for farmers. This method can be both effective and expense reliable for crop growers to manage clubroot in veggies.
Hazards
As with any chemical, caution should be taken with direct exposure. Nevertheless, calcium cyanamide has revealed no known health effects and isn’t noted as a carcinogen. The U.S. Epa states that calcium cyanamide is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory system. Short-term inhalation direct exposure could lead to gastritis, rhinitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis and tracheobronchitis. Intake of calcium cyanamide may trigger flushing of the face, upper body and arms. Reduced heart rate and blood pressure could also follow acute dental exposure. Long-lasting direct exposure has actually been reported to cause chronic nasal problems. As with all fruits and vegetables, comprehensive cleaning is necessary prior to consuming to help remove any chemical residues.
