The Haber-Bosch process earned Nobel prizes for the inventors, created inexpensive nitrogen for crop production, and dispelled Malthus' prediction of catastrophic human population decline.  The eventual commercialization of hybrid maize in the 1920s by Henry A Wallace and concomitant management practices have created a crop-production system with consistent annual maize yield improvements.  More options are needed for growers around the world to improve and maintain crop production sustainably, which includes improved nitrogen utilization.  Solutions for intensifying global maize production while simultaneously improving nitrogen utilization will require a more comprehensive strategy for nitrogen management. This will include use of sound agronomics and manure management practices as well as adoption of innovative technologies like crop sensors, better nitrogen formulations (i.e., inhibitors, stabilizers, and slow-release products), and improved maize hybrids and biotech traits.  Delivery of these solutions to developing countries will require investment in infrastructure, extension, and market access.

Agriculture and nitrogen: A view of 80 years of maize production

244th National Meeting (2012)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.