Processing of biodegradable and multifunctional protein‐based polymer materials for the potential controlled release of zinc and water in horticulture.

Recent high levels of horticulture production cause an impoverishment of soil nutrients that may seriously impair crop yields. This forces farmers to rely on the use of fertilizers. However, it also involves an increase in the contamination risks associated with their supply. A possible alternative to supply these fertilizers could be the use of biodegradable protein‐based matrices, which can contain the essential elements required by the soil. Therefore, the main objective of this work is the evaluation of different alternative methods for the incorporation of a selected micronutrient (MN) zinc (Zn) to soy protein‐based matrices. As a result, it has been possible to incorporate high levels of Zn into the matrices. However, depending on the method used for MN incorporation, there are variations in the microstructure, MN distribution, and mechanical properties. This work brings forward an innovative application of these matrices as a source of controlled release of MN for horticulture applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]