Triple Superphosphate (TSP)
Also known as: Concentrated Superphosphate, Triple Super Phosphate Typical Grade: 0-46-0 (44–48% P₂O₅)
Triple Superphosphate (TSP) is a highly concentrated phosphate fertilizer that supplies a large amount of plant-available phosphorus in a single product. It is produced by reacting phosphate rock with phosphoric acid, resulting in a much higher phosphorus content than Single Superphosphate (SSP).
The primary phosphorus compound is monocalcium phosphate, which is highly water-soluble and quickly available to plants once applied to moist soil.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Unit | Typical / Standard Value |
|---|---|---|
| Available Phosphate (P₂O₅) | % | 44–48 (commonly guaranteed 46 min) |
| Water-Soluble P₂O₅ | % | ≥ 40–43 (high proportion of total) |
| Calcium (Ca) | % | ≈ 15–17 |
| Sulfur (S) | % | Low (typically 1–2.5) |
| Free Acid (as P₂O₅) | % | ≤ 3.0–4.0 |
| Moisture | % | ≤ 4–5 |
| Appearance | — | Light grey, grey or off-white granules |
| Particle Size (granular) | — | Predominantly 2–4 mm |
| Bulk Density (approx.) | kg/m³ | 1,000–1,150 |
Typical Physical Properties
- Highly water-soluble phosphorus
- Free-flowing granules with good handling and spreading characteristics
- Low salt index
- Compatible for blending with many fertilizers (check compatibility with urea-based products)
Key Benefits
- Highest concentration of straight phosphate among common solid fertilizers — reduces transport, storage, and application costs per unit of phosphorus.
- Rapid nutrient availability — High water solubility ensures quick release of phosphorus for early root development, energy transfer, flowering, and fruiting.
- No nitrogen — Ideal when only phosphorus is required (e.g., after legume crops or in situations where additional nitrogen is not wanted).
- Contains calcium — Contributes to soil and plant calcium needs.
- Cost-efficient on a nutrient basis — Often more economical than SSP when high phosphorus rates are needed.
- Versatile — Suitable for basal application, banding, and bulk blending.
Recommended Applications
Highly suitable for:
- Cereals: Maize/corn, wheat, rice, barley
- Oilseeds and legumes
- Potatoes, vegetables, and high-value horticultural crops
- Sugarcane, cotton, and most field crops
- Situations requiring high phosphorus without additional nitrogen or sulfur
Preferred situations:
- Soils deficient in phosphorus
- Basal fertilization before planting or sowing
- Blending into custom NPK or NP fertilizers
- Crops with high phosphorus demand during early growth stages
Application Methods:
- Broadcast and incorporated
- Banded near the seed (starter application)
- Bulk blending with compatible fertilizers
- Rates determined by soil tests and crop requirements
Packaging Options
- 25 kg or 50 kg woven polypropylene / polyethylene bags
- 500–1,000 kg jumbo bags (FIBC)
- Bulk (loose) delivery for large-scale agricultural and industrial use
Storage & Handling Recommendations
- Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse protected from moisture.
- Keep bags sealed and stacked on pallets to minimize caking and free-acid effects.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to high humidity.
- Use standard personal protective equipment during handling.
Summary
Triple Superphosphate (TSP) is a high-analysis, highly soluble phosphate fertilizer that delivers concentrated phosphorus efficiently. Its high nutrient content, rapid availability, and lack of nitrogen make it an excellent choice for phosphorus-focused fertilization programs and for blending into compound fertilizers.
For commercial inquiries, current availability, granular grades, or technical data sheets, please contact us.
