GAL-Xeᴼᴺᴱ® Controlled Release Technology

March 13, 2024

What is Controlled Release?

Polymer Coated Fertilizers (PCF), such as Simplot’s own GAL-‍Xeᴼᴺᴱ®, are advanced, controlled-release fertilizers specifically designed to meet the precise feeding requirements of turf grasses and plants. These technologies feature an ultra-thin polymer coating to gradually provide a complete and precise release of nutrients. The products have an extremely tough, durable coating to withstand fracturing, even during severe handling, blending, or application operations. There is no premature release due to fractured coatings and no hot water insolubles remaining unreleased. Just controlled, complete release when needed.


How Does GAL-‍Xeᴼᴺᴱ® Technology Work?

PCFs such as GAL-‍Xeᴼᴺᴱ® release nutrients by osmotic diffusion - the constant, gradual diffusion of nutrients through the polymer coating. The thickness of the applied coating controls the rate of osmotic diffusion. Osmotic diffusion rates increase as soil temperatures increase and decrease. The osmotic release mechanism is essentially unaffected by varying amounts of soil moisture, microbes, or pH levels, assuring a more predictable release pattern.

Moisture Absorption
Moisture Absorption  
Within a week of application, the polymer coating allows soil moisture in, which activates encapsulated nutrients but doesn’t release them.
Nutrient Diffusion
Nutrient Diffusion        
Over the next several months, the membrane slowly releases dissolved nutrients through osmotic diffusion, only when triggered by soil temperature.
Polymer Decomposition
Polymer Decomposition
After complete release of nutrients, the polymer coating microbially decomposes into naturally occurring soil elements.

World Class Fertilizer Performance

Simplot GAL-‍Xeᴼᴺᴱ® uses patented technology developed with NASA to provide a controlled-release fertilizer with advanced polymer coating technology. The proprietary reactive layer coating, created with support from NASA’s Space Alliance Technology Outreach Program, uses cross-link polymers that provide a nutrient boost up front, followed by controlled release.

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