Diamond mining can help Russian agriculture

Scientists from the Kola Science Center of the Russian Academy of Science and Northern Federal University have developed sorbents based on the mineral saponite, obtained during the enrichment of diamond-bearing kimberlites and discharged into waste storage facilities.

Saponite is a layered silicate with good sorption properties. It’s able to absorb not only moisture but various toxic pollutants.

At the same time, saponite has great potential for use as a complex fertilizer in Russian agriculture. Studies have shown that its application can increase the yields of potatoes and other crops.

“Saponite can be used as a complex fertilizer and in 2018 Severalmaz (part of Alrosa), which develops the Lomonosov diamond deposit, approved the technical regulations for its use in agriculture. Besides, saponite can be used for chemical reclamation of acid soils,” commented the information and analytical service of Fertilizer Daily.