Keywords: Fertilizer blending, Blending technology.

The 'technology' of fertilizer blending embraces the whole scheme of fertilizer blending from raw materials to marketing, from factory to farm - and even beyond - to its agronomic effects in the soil. It is a specialised low-cost method of marketing fertilizers, which has evolved in answer to specific market requirements. Its philosophy is based on proven principles of economics of scale, economics of transport and good innovative management.

Fertilizer blending is a relatively simple, straightforward process; however, there are some basic elements of technology that require attention to ensure satisfactory results. Experience has shown that, unless the physical and chemical characteristics of the ingredient materials are recognised and respected, and unless the market being served is known and specifically catered for, the end result can be disastrous. Therefore it is not sufficient to consider the technology of the 'hardware' (buildings, plant, etc.) alone, raw materials and marketing must be given equal consideration - the subject should be treated as a unified system, and finally, all the components should be skilfully managed.

J E Leonard, Dublin, Ireland.

42 pages, 8 figures, 6 tables, 17 refs.