Keywords: fertilizers, blending, segregation, sampling, granulometric spread index, mean particle size, d₅₀, standards

This paper is a summary of the technical issues addressed in the new Handbook of Solid Fertilizer Blending published in 2005 by the European Blenders Association (EBA). It focuses on the major recommendations for raw materials in order to avoid segregation during flow and spreading. The measurements show that particle size has the greatest influence on the flow segregation and that size and density tend to explain the spreading segregation. The concept of quality control is approached and practical guidelines for sampling and analysis are clearly expressed.

Stefaan Pockelé, Triferto Belgium NV, B-9000 Gent, Belgium.
Dr Olivier Miserque, CRA Gembloux, Département de Genie Rural, B-5030 Gembloux, Belgium.

12 pages, 5 figures, 4 tables, 8 references.