Development of Quebec Biostimulants to Reduce the Use of Chemical Fertilizers in Agriculture

In recent years, social pressure and government policies have encouraged the transition to sustainable agriculture. This enthusiasm is reflected in average annual growth of 10% in the market for biostimulants.

The industrial partner in this project, Pyrovac Inc. develops and produces high-performance pyrolysis systems. Their patented PyrocyclingTM system is a process combining biomass pyrolysis followed by an advanced condensation technology where high molecular weight compounds are continuously separated from lighter organic compounds and water. The resulting aqueous phase is pyroligneous acid (PLA), which is said to have biostimulant properties that promote plant growth.

Preliminary projects carried out by Biopterre on certain types of plant have confirmed the biostimulant action of this product. When PLA is applied as a biostimulant, it has been shown to reduce chemical fertilizer inputs by 25-35%, without adversely affecting crop yields.

In this project, three research centers will collaborate with Pyrovac Inc. to further develop PLA as a biostimulant on various types of crops.

The objectives are to define the biostimulant's modes of action, define its method of application, quantify its agronomic effects on crops and quantify its environmental benefits, particularly in terms of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.