Scientists from Southern Federal University have developed a new composite that solves two problems at once: it cleans the soil from heavy metals and delivers growth stimulants to plant roots. In other words, it simultaneously "treats the soil" and helps plants develop faster.

Ordinary stimulants are simply applied to the soil and distributed chaotically. Here, the delivery of beneficial substances goes directly to the roots.

The new material reduces the toxicity of harmful metals by 46–71%. In barley trials, plants grew 70–80% faster compared to control samples.

The composite is based on a porous material with added active components. It contains a growth hormone (auxin), humic acid, and special additives that help the material interact better with plant roots and soil. The material can even be used on soils with heavy metals.

The technology is almost ready for practical use. Scientists intend to conduct industrial-scale tests and then implement it in agriculture.

The material can be used in contaminated soils where conventional fertilizers and stimulants work less effectively or not at all, experts explained.