Brazil backs graphene-based farming to boost crop yields and cut environmental costs
Early field trials show 25 percent jump in yields as scientists target mainstream use in two years.
BRAZIL – A new graphene-based fertiliser developed by local scientists has shown strong potential to improve crop productivity and reduce environmental pressure on farmlands in Brazil.
At the centre of this innovation is a collaboration between the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa) and the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC).
Together, they have created a fertiliser additive using graphene, a thin layer of carbon known for its strength and conductivity, which helps plants absorb nutrients more effectively and retain water in the soil.
Preliminary field tests already show a yield increase of up to 25 percent in select plots. According to Wifredo Rondan, the lead researcher on the project, the aim is not just higher productivity but also a smarter use of inputs.
“By using graphene, we can reduce fertiliser runoff, improve nutrient uptake, and help crops withstand environmental stress,” he said. “This technology could be a game-changer for both smallholder and large-scale farmers.”
Wider environmental benefits
The push toward graphene-based inputs also has environmental benefits. By improving the efficiency of nutrient use, less fertiliser is lost to runoff, which reduces the risk of polluting rivers and water bodies.
This is a major concern in Brazil, where large-scale farming often contributes to water contamination and soil degradation.
“We’re not just trying to get bigger harvests,” said Rondan. “We’re working towards a cleaner, more efficient way to farm.”
Researchers say the product is still undergoing trials across different climate zones and crop varieties.
However, they expect the fertiliser to be available commercially within two years. If all goes to plan, Brazil could be the first country to roll out graphene-based solutions at scale in agriculture.
The project has attracted attention from global agritech companies and sustainability advocates who see it as a practical application of nanotechnology in farming.
While the science behind graphene has been studied for years, its use in agriculture is only just beginning to show real-world impact.
Graphene in machinery and pest control
Beyond fertiliser, Brazilian researchers are also testing graphene-infused coatings for seeds and plants that may help reduce the use of chemical pesticides.
Early lab results suggest that these coatings can protect crops against pests and disease while maintaining soil health.
Graphene is also finding a role in agricultural tools. Its strength and conductivity make it suitable for improving machinery and sensors used in farming.
This could help farmers better track soil conditions and make smarter planting decisions, leading to more efficient supply chains and fewer losses during harvest.
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