FAQ | All Your Questions Answered About SmartNPK® AI - NPK Formulation Platform with Artificial Intelligence

About SmartNPK

How can I schedule a free SmartNPK demo?

Just click here, fill out the contact form, and our team will reach out within 2 business days to schedule a live video demonstration.

What is the best fertilizer formulation software on the market?

SmartNPK® AI was awarded Innovation of the Year and recognized by the 2024 UN World Food Forum as the first fertilizer formulation solution based on artificial intelligence.

It offers unmatched precision in nutrient composition, optimizes inputs, reduces waste, and increases agricultural profitability. With exclusive technology that combines advanced science and digital innovation, it transforms crop nutrition while promoting sustainability and efficiency on a global scale.

Click here to see the regions and clients using SmartNPK® AI

What are the hardware and software requirements?

SmartNPK is a lightweight software compatible only with Windows 11 (32 and 64-bit). It can be used on desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones running this OS. An internet connection is required to access all features. A full cloud version is coming soon.

Is there a mobile version or dedicated app?

Currently, there is no mobile app or dedicated version. SmartNPK works only on devices running Windows 11. A fully cloud-based version will soon be available for access from any device or operating system.

Does SmartNPK comply with international standards?

It complies with Brazilian MAPA (Ministry of Agriculture regulatory agency) standards and major ISO regulations for fertilizers. CE and ANSI certifications can be added upon request.

What are the SmartNPK plans and pricing?

We offer Professional and Corporate plans. To view the complete pricing table and conditions, click here or contact our sales team.

How can I subscribe to or download SmartNPK AI?

First, subscribe to one of the available plans: Professional or Corporate. To check pricing and terms, click here or contact our sales team.

Can I test SmartNPK® AI for free?

Yes! You can try SmartNPK® AI free for 7 days with full access to all platform features, with no subscription cost. To request your trial, contact our sales team via the website www.smartnpk.com.br — we’ll be glad to assist you.

How do I ensure my formulas comply with MAPA?

SmartNPK includes all current Normative Instructions (IN) required by MAPA (Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture regulatory agency) for the production of fertilizers and inputs in Brazil. Key applicable regulations include:

Soil Conditioners: IN 35/2006, IN SDA 61/2020
Soil Amendments: IN 35/2006
Soil Remineralizers: IN 05/2016
Mineral Fertilizers: IN 39/2018
Organic Fertilizers: IN SDA 61/2020
Organomineral Fertilizers: IN SDA 61/2020
Biological Inputs: IN 13/2011
Plant Substrates: IN 05/2016

The system is automatically updated whenever MAPA issues new regulatory guidelines, ensuring full compliance with the latest standards.

Support & Operation

How does technical support work?

Response SLA within 4 business hours via integrated chat, email, or WhatsApp. We also offer free monthly online training sessions.

Can calculations be blocked if inputs are insufficient?

Yes. When there are not enough inputs in stock, the system automatically notifies the user and offers alternatives such as partial production — indicating, for example, how many tons can be produced — or suggests a new formula excluding the missing raw material. This ensures adjustments are made safely and efficiently.

What happens in case of internet instability?

SmartNPK saves each step locally and syncs automatically once the connection is restored, ensuring that no data is lost.

How does version control of formulas work?

Each calculation generates a numbered version. You can revert to any previous iteration and compare historical compositions and costs.

Can my lab team use SmartNPK?

Yes. You may share your login with your team, but this practice is the full responsibility of the account holder. We recommend caution to avoid unauthorized use or data leakage. The safest approach is to assign individual access for each team member, ensuring proper control, traceability, and security when using the platform.

How is data security handled in SmartNPK?

Your data is 100% private, end-to-end encrypted, and remains the exclusive property of the client. Even the SmartNPK technical team has no access to the content saved in the system.

We are fully compliant with the LGPD (Brazilian General Data Protection Law) and only access data upon the user’s explicit authorization, in cases of remote technical support, always under the user's control.

Customization & Integrations

Can I customize the raw material list?

You can register any input (including by-products), defining guarantees and costs. The algorithm takes all of it into account during formula calculation.

How do I receive reports and technical data sheets?

Export them as PDF or Excel at any time. The technical sheets are pre-formatted for MAPA presentation, including compliance seals and complete data.

How does integration with inventory and ERP systems work?

Connect SAP, TOTVS, or import from CSV/Excel. SmartNPK automatically retrieves stock levels and updates formulas, eliminating rework.

Can I simulate different market prices?

Simply change the unit price of each input and compare cost and profitability reports before finalizing an order.

Is it possible to simulate different compositions before production?

Yes. You can adjust quantities or types of inputs and instantly view updated cost per ton, nutrient composition, and environmental impact.

Formulations & Ratios

How to calculate NPK fertilizer formulation step by step?

Select your raw materials (urea, MAP, KCl, etc.) in SmartNPK, enter guarantees and stock levels. Click “Calculate” to instantly get the ideal ratio of N, P₂O₅, and K₂O for your batch.

What is the ideal NPK ratio for corn according to Embrapa?

For medium-textured soils, Embrapa recommends 120 kg N, 60 kg P₂O₅, and 60 kg K₂O per hectare. SmartNPK loads this suggestion automatically.

What is the ideal NPK ratio for soybeans according to Embrapa?

For first-crop soybeans: 20 kg N, 60 kg P₂O₅, and 60 kg K₂O per hectare. Our system optimizes and compares nitrogen sources for better cost-efficiency.

What is the ideal NPK ratio for coffee according to Embrapa?

For Conilon coffee: 80 kg N, 20 kg P₂O₅, and 20 kg K₂O/ha. For Arabica: up to 150 kg N, 80 kg P₂O₅, and 80 kg K₂O/ha. Configure it in SmartNPK based on your variety.

What is the ideal NPK ratio for rice according to Embrapa?

For irrigated rice: 80 kg N, 40 kg P₂O₅, and 40 kg K₂O per hectare. You can personalize this recommendation in SmartNPK based on your soil analysis.

How to formulate NPK fertilizer for vegetables?

Embrapa suggests 80 kg N, 40 kg P₂O₅, and 40 kg K₂O per hectare. Adjust micronutrients in SmartNPK according to crop needs.

What is the ideal NPK formula for livestock and pasture?

For pasture, the recommendation is 50 kg N, 20 kg P₂O₅, and 20 kg K₂O per hectare. Use SmartNPK to configure formulas for silage and forage crops.

Is there an online tool for granular fertilizer blending?

SmartNPK blends granular fertilizers in seconds, calculating ideal ratios and generating technical sheets for industrial production.

What is the best software for NPK fertilizer formulation?

SmartNPK is a leader in integrated AI, MAPA compliance, real-time simulations, ERP integration, and technical precision — with high usability.

Common Mistakes, Inspections & Best Practices in Fertilizer Formulation

What are the most common mistakes in NPK formulation?

- Inappropriate choice of raw materials (e.g., mixing urea with single superphosphate, causing an unwanted chemical reaction);
- Ignoring impurity limits set by MAPA Normative Instruction No. 27/2021;
- Overlooking the actual nutrient content of each input;
- Not accounting for available stock, leading to unfeasible formulas;
- Failing to adjust for soil pH, reducing nutrient availability.

SmartNPK automatically detects these issues and blocks incompatible combinations.

How does MAPA inspect fertilizer formulas?

Inspections are conducted through the review of product labels, technical data sheets, lab reports, and audits at registered manufacturing facilities. Products must comply with the following key regulations:

- IN No. 27/2021: establishes minimum guarantees and impurity limits;
- IN No. 5/2016: covers the registration of raw materials and products with MAPA;
- Decree 4954/2004: governs the control and inspection of fertilizers in Brazil.

Companies must maintain updated records and use labels that follow the official model. SmartNPK automatically generates MAPA-compliant reports.

What is the difference between ready-mix and custom-blended fertilizers?

- Ready-mix fertilizer: a standardized, industrial product with a fixed formula, widely available in the market. Offers less flexibility and generally higher cost per ton applied.
- Custom-blended fertilizer: tailored based on soil analysis, crop type, growth stage, and input availability.

Personalized formulation provides greater agronomic efficiency, minimizes nutrient losses, and improves cost-effectiveness.

How to calculate fertilizer cost per hectare?

1. Determine the application rate per hectare (e.g., 300 kg/ha);
2. Multiply by cost per ton (e.g., R$ 2,000/t → R$ 2/kg);
3. 300 kg × R$ 2 = R$ 600/ha.

With SmartNPK, the system automatically calculates total cost per hectare, factoring in freight, taxes, and potential losses, and provides comparative reports by crop and region.

How to formulate fertilizers correctly and safely?

Correct formulation involves:
- Defining crop nutrient requirements based on soil analysis and technical recommendations (e.g., Embrapa guidelines);
- Selecting MAPA-registered and approved raw materials;
- Calculating the nutritional balance (NPK) while considering guarantees, losses, and nutrient interactions;
- Adjusting for pH, particle size, solubility, and cost.

SmartNPK automates this entire process in seconds, accounting for agronomic, economic, and legal factors.

Why use agricultural fertilization software?

A fertilization tool like SmartNPK offers key advantages:
- Automated, precise calculations of NPK, TOC, micronutrients, and impurities;
- Generation of technical sheets ready for MAPA submission;
- Scenario simulations comparing costs and nutrient compositions;
- Integration with inventory, ERP, and agronomic recommendation systems.

It's an essential solution for agronomists, producers, and fertilizer industries seeking efficiency, traceability, and full compliance.

Concepts & Regulatory Guidelines

How to adjust impurity limits and micronutrient levels?

Set maximum limits for Cl⁻, SO₄²⁻, and heavy metals, as well as target levels for Zn, B, and Mn. The algorithm filters only formulas that comply with MAPA Normative Instruction No. 27/2021.

Can I simulate different compositions before production?

Yes. Change input types or quantities and instantly view updated cost per ton, nutrient composition, and environmental impact.

Is there a real-time NPK fertilizer calculator?

SmartNPK instantly recalculates nutrient ratios, costs, and output per ton as you modify parameters on the dashboard.

Is there a fertilizer cost optimization system?

Our AI compares in-stock input prices and selects the most cost-effective combination without compromising nutrient quality.

What is PFU and how is it calculated?

PFU = total batch mass (kg) ÷ application amount (kg). In an NPK 4-30-16 formula, each PFU equals 0.04 kg of N, 0.30 kg of P₂O₅, and 0.16 kg of K₂O.

How to interpret fertilizer nutrient guarantees?

Guarantees indicate the percentage of N, P₂O₅, K₂O, and impurities. Embrapa recommends ≤2% chlorides in nitrogen fertilizers to prevent phytotoxicity.

What are the environmental impacts of improper fertilizer use?

Excess nitrogen causes eutrophication; potassium can alter soil pH. It is essential to monitor CEC (cation exchange capacity) and electrical conductivity to prevent leaching and aquifer contamination.

5 tips to optimize fertilizer production costs

1. Prioritize local raw materials to reduce logistics costs and improve supply reliability;
2. Consider viable industrial by-products as alternative inputs;
3. Adjust formulation pH to enhance nutrient efficiency and minimize waste;
4. Use AI-driven simulations to analyze scenarios and identify cost-effective formulas;
5. Keep prices, guarantees, and inventory data up to date — SmartNPK® AI uses this information to generate more efficient, lower-cost formulas.

General Questions

What is an organomineral fertilizer?

It is a type of fertilizer composed of a physical or chemical blend of mineral sources (such as ammonium nitrate, single superphosphate, or potassium chloride) with organic materials of plant, animal, or agro-industrial origin. According to Brazilian Decree No. 86.955/1982 and MAPA Normative Instruction No. 61/2020, to be classified as organomineral, the product must contain at least 8% total organic carbon (TOC) and have at least 50% of its mass composed of organic material. This composition supports gradual nutrient release and improves the soil’s physical and biological properties. SmartNPK facilitates the formulation of these products by allowing precise adjustment of the organic-to-mineral ratio, ensuring compliance with legislation.

How is nitrogen released in organomineral fertilizers?

The organic fraction in organominerals contains nitrogen bound to compounds with low solubility, requiring microbial activity in the soil for mineralization. This process converts organic N into available forms like NH₄⁺ (ammonium) and NO₃⁻ (nitrate), promoting gradual release throughout the crop cycle. This reduces losses due to volatilization and leaching. SmartNPK incorporates this behavior into its simulation model, allowing prediction of the nutrient release curve based on soil type and management.

Why is phosphorus poorly absorbed by plants?

Phosphorus (P), typically applied as P₂O₅, is strongly fixed in soil, especially in acidic soils rich in iron (Fe³⁺) and aluminum (Al³⁺), which react with soluble phosphate to form insoluble compounds. Studies show that only 20% to 30% of applied phosphorus is absorbed by plants in the first year. Organic matter in organomineral fertilizers acts as a natural chelating agent, reducing this fixation. SmartNPK allows configuration of phosphate source interaction with the organic fraction, predicting losses and efficiency based on soil type.

Does organomineral fertilizer improve phosphorus availability?

Yes, significantly. The organic fraction acts as a protective barrier that prevents direct contact between soluble phosphorus and iron, aluminum, or manganese oxides in the soil, reducing fixation. It also helps balance the chemical fractions of organic, fixed, and available phosphorus, enabling gradual release. SmartNPK models this behavior based on TOC, soil type, and phosphate reactivity.

What happens to phosphorus in the soil after application?

Phosphorus is distributed across three fractions: available (in soil solution), fixed (bound to soil minerals), and organic (associated with organic matter). In well-managed systems, a balance between these fractions avoids peaks and deficiencies. The mineralization of organic phosphorus depends on microbial activity and soil moisture. SmartNPK accounts for this cycle to fine-tune application doses and sources for more efficient fertilization.

Does organomineral fertilizer improve potassium uptake?

Yes. In soils with low cation exchange capacity (CEC), such as those dominated by kaolinite, potassium (K⁺) is easily leached. The organic matter in organominerals acts as an adsorbent, enhancing K⁺ retention in the exchangeable phase. Humus is estimated to have a CEC of 150 to 300 cmolc/kg, compared to only 10 to 20 cmolc/kg in some tropical clays. SmartNPK takes this into account when recommending sources and ideal ratios to minimize nutrient losses.

Can organomineral fertilizer be considered a soil conditioner?

Yes, especially in the long term. Continuous addition of stable organic matter improves soil structure, porosity, and water retention capacity. It also enhances microbial activity, promoting nutrient cycling. Although the organic fraction in organominerals usually represents less than 30% of the total formula, regular application contributes to gradual increases in soil TOC. SmartNPK can estimate this cumulative effect based on application frequency.

Does organomineral fertilizer increase crop productivity?

Yes. Research shows productivity gains of 8% to 20% when using organomineral fertilizers compared to mineral-only fertilization, especially in low-fertility soils. These gains are linked to improved soil structure, better nutrient availability throughout the cycle, and stimulation of microbial activity. SmartNPK allows users to simulate expected productivity based on formula composition and local conditions.

Can organomineral fertilizer fully replace mineral fertilizer?

In certain crops and soil types, yes. Replacement depends on chemical soil analysis, crop nutrient requirements, and current regulations. Although organominerals may have lower NPK concentrations, their gradual release and soil conditioning effects often lead to greater efficiency. SmartNPK offers side-by-side simulations of different compositions so agronomists can evaluate cost, agronomic performance, and regulatory compliance for each scenario.

Technical Applications & Strategic Use

What is NPK fertilizer formulation?

NPK formulation is the technical combination of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P₂O₅), and potassium (K₂O) sources to achieve the ideal nutrient ratio for a specific crop. In addition to proportions, source selection depends on factors such as solubility, cost per kg of nutrient, and soil pH. SmartNPK assists in this process by automatically considering dozens of variables.

Is it worth investing in fertilizer formulation software?

Yes. A good formulation tool automates complex calculations, reduces errors, optimizes cost per ton, and ensures legal compliance. Companies using SmartNPK report up to 18% reduction in fertilization costs, along with standardized production and greater technical reliability.

Technical & Theoretical Fundamentals

What does NPK 20-10-20 mean?

This label indicates that the fertilizer contains 20% nitrogen (N), 10% phosphorus (P₂O₅), and 20% potassium (K₂O). It’s a balanced formula commonly used in crops requiring both vegetative growth and fruit development. SmartNPK calculates the exact dosage per hectare based on this composition.

What are nutrient guarantees in fertilizers?

These are the minimum declared levels of nutrients on the product label, including N, P₂O₅, K₂O, micronutrients, and maximum moisture content. Guarantee control is mandatory under MAPA (Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture regulatory agency) according to Normative Instruction No. 27/2021. SmartNPK helps you formulate compliant guarantees as required by law.

What is the difference between blended, complex, and custom fertilizers?

- Blended: physical mixture of separate chemical sources (e.g., MAP + KCl).
- Complex: single product where nutrients are chemically combined (e.g., granulated NPK by reaction).
- Custom: tailor-made formulation with a specific ratio; it can be either blended or complex.
SmartNPK allows you to formulate both types depending on your application and industry needs.

What are impurities and why must they be controlled?

Impurities are contaminants such as heavy metals (Cd, Pb, As, Hg), chlorides, and salts that may harm the crop. Brazilian regulations define maximum levels per ton (e.g., Cd < 10 mg/kg). SmartNPK lets you set these limits and automatically blocks non-compliant formulations.

Micronutrients & Advanced Nutrition

How to balance micronutrients in fertilizer formulation?

The balance depends on crop requirements, soil analysis, and nutrient interactions. For example, excess zinc (Zn) may inhibit phosphorus (P) uptake. SmartNPK recommends micronutrient dosages based on Embrapa data and MAPA Normative Instruction No. 27/2021 limits.

Can calcium, magnesium, and sulfur be added to the formula?

Yes. Calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) help maintain base saturation balance, while sulfur (S) is essential for protein synthesis. Common sources include: agricultural gypsum (S), dolomite (Mg), and limestone (Ca). SmartNPK allows you to include these sources in the formulation and automatically adjusts total cost.

What are the signs of micronutrient deficiencies?

- Zn: small leaves, short internodes
- B: tip dieback, poor fruit set
- Mn: interveinal chlorosis
Proper diagnosis requires both foliar and visual analysis. SmartNPK provides adjustment suggestions based on observed deficiencies.

What are the most commonly used micronutrients in NPK fertilizers?

The most common ones are zinc (Zn), boron (B), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), and molybdenum (Mo). Application depends on the crop and soil type. SmartNPK includes a built-in library of compatible sources and lets users adjust proportions according to the input type.

Crop- and Region-Specific Fertilization

How to formulate NPK for corn in sandy soils?

Sandy soils have low CEC and high leaching, requiring split applications and less soluble nutrient sources. For corn, a 20-05-20 formula with added sulfur is recommended. SmartNPK allows you to adjust the formula according to soil texture and crop stage, optimizing nutrient release and uptake.

What is the best NPK formula for soybeans in the Cerrado region?

In the Cerrado, soils are acidic and phosphorus-deficient. Formulas like 02-30-20 are commonly used at planting, combined with prior liming. SmartNPK enables you to configure soil correction strategies and adjust for critical micronutrients such as Zn and B, which are common deficiencies in this region.

How to adjust NPK formulation for Arabica coffee at high altitudes?

At higher elevations, coffee requires more potassium to ensure bean quality and disease resistance. A 20-05-30 formula is recommended. SmartNPK considers climate, altitude, and variety to recommend the ideal NPK + micronutrient blend, including Mn and Zn.

What are the fertilization considerations in semi-arid regions?

Controlled-release nutrient sources are ideal to reduce volatilization and salinization losses. In semi-arid regions, SmartNPK recommends formulas with lower salinity, balanced in S and Ca, and suggests split applications based on soil moisture conditions.

How to personalize NPK formulas for perennial crops?

Crops like grapes, citrus, papaya, and bananas require fertilization strategies based on phenological stages. SmartNPK allows you to define distinct formulas for sprouting, fruiting, and ripening, considering regional data, foliar analysis, and nutrient export by the plant.

Can I use the same formula for base and topdressing applications?

It is not recommended. The base fertilizer should prioritize phosphorus (P), while topdressing should focus on nitrogen (N) and potassium (K). SmartNPK provides separate simulations for base and topdressing, ensuring maximum agronomic and economic efficiency.

Myths, Truths & Technical Comparisons

Are fertilizers with more phosphorus always better?

❌ Myth. High phosphorus content can be harmful in soils with nutrient buildup and also increases formulation cost. The best approach is to adjust based on soil analysis. SmartNPK calculates actual needs and prevents overapplication.

Can organomineral fertilizer fully replace mineral fertilizer?

✅ Partially true. In some cases — such as well-structured soils or crops needing slow-release fertilization — organominerals may fully meet nutrient demands. However, high-demand crops or nutrient-deficient soils may still require mineral supplementation. SmartNPK recommends hybrid formulas based on soil diagnostics.

Is there a universal NPK formula for all crops?

❌ Myth. Each crop, soil type, climate, and growth stage requires a unique nutrient balance. SmartNPK delivers customized formulations based on the crop, soil chemical analysis, and agronomic objectives (growth, yield, recovery, etc.).

Is custom-blended fertilizer always cheaper than ready-mix?

⚖️ It depends. Ready-mix fertilizers may be cheaper in large volumes, but on-demand blending reduces waste, improves nutrient efficiency, and cuts long-term costs. SmartNPK compares both options in real time and presents the best scenario.

Is a licensed agronomist always required to formulate fertilizer?

✅ True for commercial production. Brazilian legislation requires a technical professional for registering commercial formulas with MAPA (Ministry of Agriculture regulatory agency). However, with SmartNPK, agronomists gain speed and accuracy, and producers can run preliminary simulations safely — with final validation always handled by a qualified professional.

Is it true that NPK with micronutrients improves productivity?

✅ True. Several studies by Embrapa (Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation) show that applying Zn, B, and Mn together with NPK improves physiological efficiency and macronutrient uptake in plants. SmartNPK enables micronutrient incorporation and balancing based on legal limits and crop-specific requirements.

MAPA Legislation & International Standards

What are the most widely used international standards for fertilizers?

The most recognized include:
- ISO 18644: solid nitrogen-based fertilizers;
- EU Regulation No. 2003/2003;
- ANSI/ASABE standards in the United States.

SmartNPK can be configured to meet these standards, making it ideal for exporters or industries with international certifications.

What must be included in a technical data sheet according to MAPA?

The following information is required:
- Guaranteed composition (% N, P₂O₅, K₂O, micronutrients)
- Product type and MAPA classification
- Raw materials used
- Moisture content, pH, density
- Manufacturer registration

SmartNPK generates fully compliant data sheets with layouts validated for inspection by MAPA (Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture regulatory agency).

How to ensure that a formula is legally compliant?

Use approved sources, respect minimum and maximum nutrient guarantees, and follow current normative instructions. SmartNPK automatically verifies the compliance of each input and final formula, alerting you to any deviations.

Do formulas created with SmartNPK meet export standards?

Yes. The system can be configured to comply with international standards (CE, ISO, ANSI), including specific requirements for labeling and composition. This simplifies the standardization process for exporting fertilizers to demanding markets.

Questions and Answers

SmartNPK AI | Frequently Asked Questions About Fertilizer Formulation