A recent study published in the Journal of Polymers and the Environment evaluated using k-Carrageenan as a coating for fertilizer granules.
The study focused on addressing one of the biggest problems facing the worlds waterways: nutrification from agriculture runoff. Carrageenan, which is natural sugar from some red seaweeds, was tested as a time release coating for NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) fertilizer grains.
The results showed a 12-18% reduction in NPK loss to water washing without negatively effecting plant growth. The researchers argue this to be viable way to reduce amount of fertilizer applied to cops and the amount of nutrients washed into surrounding environments.
The Study can be viewed here