Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 1

Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) will partner with Lystek International Ltd. a Canadian company, toexplore horticultural and turf applications for a high-solids, pathogen-free, nutrient-rich, biofertilizer product(LysteGro) in the west coast biogeographical zone. Lystek biosolids processing technology is an innovative,energy- and cost-effective process involving a combination of heat, alkali, and high shear mixing to convertbiosolids and other organics into a homogeneous liquid product with a solids content of 14 - 17%. LysteGrosolid biofertilizer is a new product for the company which meets expectations for a product which willcontribute to sustainability in the agricultural and landscape sectors. Horticultural and turf applications will bestudied; flowering annuals and tree seedlings, and 3 varieties of turf commonly used in BC, will be grown in 3rates of LysteGro solid blended with a standard nursery/tree grow media and compared to an industry standardchemical fertilizer and an industry standard bio- fertilizer with similar physical characteristics. The informationwill be used by Lystek to formulate the new solid biofertilizer product with use recommendations specificallydesigned for these markets and climatic conditions. KPU technical staff and students will benefit from theopportunity to participate in applied research and the university will expand its ability to work with greeneconomy industries.