- The possibilities of natural and organic surfactants
The possibilities of natural and organic surfactants
Synthetic and conventional chemistries have previously dominated the turfgrass wetting agent market. These include ionic and non-ionic soil surfactants. More recently, the use of more sustainable compounds produced by plants, bacteria, yeasts and fungi is being investigated for plant growth promotion through moisture management in agriculture, including turfgrass. These biosurfactants are attractive because of their reduced environmental impact and noteworthy efficacy. This seminar will review the current knowledge and advances in biosurfactant technologies as they relate to potential amenity turf applications.
Learning outcomes:
- Understanding of biosurfactant classes
- Difference between conventional and biological surfactants
- Assessment of peer-reviewed research publications focused on biosurfactant use in agriculture including amenity turf
- Methods for optimising the use of biosurfactants in amenity turf
- Review of commercially available biosurfactant products
- Future of biosurfactants for amenity turf
Presented by:
Emma Beggs
Portfolio Development Manager - Europe Aquatrols
Emma joined Aquatrols in 2022 having previously worked for the Sport Turf Research Institute, where she specialised as a cool season turfgrass agronomist. Emma was an integral part of the team tasked with developing an integrated turfgrass management handbook for the R&A GC2030 research program; an industry initiative to consider the impacts of climate change, resource constraints and regulation on course condition and playability.
In her role at Aquatrols, Emma leads the development of novel, sustainable products for the European division and helps manage the current portfolio. Emma graduated with a BSc (Hons) degree in Soils and The Environment from Reading University.
Dr Arianna Watters
Portfolio Development Manager - Europe Aquatrols
Arianna Watters, Ph.D. has been the Lead Formulator for the Aquatrols R&D group for 4 years, leading the development of Aquatrols’ formulations capabilities, as well as identifying and developing innovative disruptive technologies in our space. Dr. Watters received both her Ph.D. (Material Science Engineering) and BS (Chemical and Biological Engineering) degrees from Drexel University in Philadelphia. Arianna’s academic research and publications were focused on nanostructured polymer systems. Prior to joining Aquatrols she has held formulation development roles at FXI (polyurethanes) and Avon (cosmetics).