Liquid Ammonium Thiosulfate – The Preferred Form for Modern Agriculture
Liquid ammonium thiosulfate has established itself as the dominant form of ATS in the agricultural market, and for good reason. Its exceptional handling characteristics, compatibility with existing application equipment, and proven agronomic performance make it the preferred choice for farmers, agronomists, and fertilizer manufacturers worldwide.
Why Liquid Ammonium Thiosulfate?
Liquid ammonium thiosulfate offers numerous advantages over solid fertilizer forms:
-
Ease of Handling: As a concentrated aqueous solution, liquid ATS is easy to pump, measure, and apply
-
Application Flexibility: Compatible with fertigation, foliar spray, and starter banding systems
-
Uniform Distribution: Liquid form ensures even application across the field
-
Rapid Availability: Nutrients are quickly available to crops
-
Compatibility: Compatible with many liquid fertilizer solutions including UAN, neutral phosphates, and aqueous ammonia
Physical Properties and Composition
Liquid ammonium thiosulfate is typically supplied as a clear, colorless to slightly yellowish solution. The most common commercial formulations contain approximately:
| Component | Typical Concentration |
|---|---|
| Nitrogen (N) | 12% |
| Sulfur (S) | 26% |
| Density | ~1.3 kg/L |
Application Methods
Fertigation
Liquid ATS can be injected into irrigation systems for even distribution and rapid root availability. This method ensures that nutrients are delivered directly to the root zone where they are most needed.
Foliar Application
ATS can be applied as a foliar spray, providing rapid nutrient uptake through the leaves. Recommended foliar application rates typically range up to 0.5% concentration.
Starter Banding
For row and vegetable crops, liquid ATS can be applied as a band application 2 inches to the side and 2 inches below the seed row at 1 to 3 gallons per acre.
Soil Drench
ATS can be applied as a soil drench for targeted nutrient delivery.
Application Timing
For optimal results, liquid ATS should be applied during critical crop growth windows:
| Crop | Optimal Application Timing |
|---|---|
| Corn | Early vegetative stages (V4–V8) |
| Small Grains | Pre-boot or early boot |
| Canola | Split applications for high sulfur demand |
| Canola | 30–60 lb S/acre |
Market Dominance
Liquid ammonium thiosulfate continues to dominate the market, reflecting its widespread acceptance and proven performance. The global liquid ammonium thiosulfate market is set to continue its steady expansion through 2035, with total global demand expected to increase by 40–60% relative to 2026 volumes.
Future Outlook
As precision agriculture and fertigation systems continue to expand, demand for liquid-compatible nutrient blends is expected to increase. Liquid ammonium thiosulfate's stability, solubility, and minimal interaction with system hardware position it favorably for continued growth in this evolving agricultural landscape.


