Calcium Ammonium Nitrate

Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN) is a fertilizer that contains nitrogen in a form that is readily available for plant uptake. It's a mixture of ammonium nitrate and calcium carbonate, sometimes with a small amount of ammonium sulfate. The composition typically consists of around 25-30% ammonium nitrate and 7-10% calcium (as CaO).

CAN is used primarily as a nitrogen fertilizer in agriculture. It provides both fast-acting nitrate nitrogen and slower-releasing ammonium nitrogen, which makes it suitable for various crops throughout their growth stages. The presence of calcium in CAN can also help to improve soil structure and reduce soil acidity, benefiting plant growth.

Some common uses of Calcium Ammonium Nitrate include:

1.Crop Fertilization: CAN is widely used to supply nitrogen to a variety of crops, including cereals, vegetables, fruits, and oilseeds. It's especially favored for crops with high nitrogen requirements.

2.Top Dressing: CAN can be applied as a top dressing, either broadcast or as a side dressing, during the growing season to provide a quick nitrogen boost to plants.

3.Foliar Application: In some cases, CAN can be dissolved in water and sprayed directly onto plant leaves, allowing for rapid uptake of nitrogen.

4.Garden and Lawn Fertilization: It's also used in home gardening and lawn care to promote healthy plant growth and lush greenery.

5.Industrial Use: Apart from agriculture, CAN is sometimes used in certain industrial processes, such as in the manufacture of explosives and pyrotechnics due to its high nitrogen content.

However, it's essential to use CAN responsibly, following recommended application rates and timing to avoid nitrogen runoff and environmental pollution. Over-application of nitrogen fertilizers can lead to water pollution and contribute to problems like algal blooms in water bodies.