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Enhancing soil fertility through Biochar using slaughter-house waste as a feedstock
Tayachew Nega1, Eyob Sisay Yeshanew1,2, Ramesh Babu Nallamothu3
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Technology, University of Gondar, P.O. Box 196, Gondar, Ethiopia.
Scientific Reports
|April 1, 2025
Summary
This study found that cud biochar significantly improves Ethiopian soil nutrients, increasing pH and organic carbon more effectively than paper biochar. Composite biochar also enhanced soil organic carbon and nitrogen levels.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Soil Science
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Ethiopian agriculture faces challenges from water logging, soil acidity, and low fertility, impacting productivity.
- Biochar application is a potential strategy to amend soil properties and enhance crop yields.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of composite biochar (paper-cud) on key soil nutrients: pH, Organic Carbon, Nitrogen, and cation exchange capacity.
- To compare the effectiveness of different biochar types (paper, cud, and composite) in improving acidic Ethiopian soil.
Main Methods:
- Acidic soil samples (10 kg) were amended with biochar (paper, cud, composite) at a 1:2 ratio (biochar:soil) by weight.
- Experiments were conducted at Gondar Soil Laboratory, Ethiopia, with incubation for 68 days.
- Soil parameters including pH, Organic Carbon, and Nitrogen were analyzed post-incubation.
Main Results:
- Cud biochar application resulted in the highest pH (9.80) and organic carbon (6.22) increase compared to untreated soil.
- Paper biochar increased pH by 2.43 and organic carbon by 2.31.
- Composite biochar (paper-cud) increased organic carbon to 4.95 and total nitrogen to 3.12.
Conclusions:
- Cud biochar demonstrates superior efficacy in improving soil pH and organic carbon content in acidic Ethiopian soils.
- Both paper and cud biochar, as well as their composite, offer benefits for soil nutrient enhancement.
- Further research into optimal application rates and long-term effects is warranted.
