Development of Sustainable Nanofertilizer via Zeolite Nanostructures Synthesized from Industrial Sludge and Enriched...

The focus of this research is the development of a sustainable nanofertilizer synthesized from zeolite nanostructures derived from industrial sludge with bovine-enriched nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) nutrients. By reusing organic and industrial byproducts, this formulation is intended to maintain or potentially increase nutrient efficiency while reducing the environmental impact. Zeolite nanostructures were synthesized by the sol-gel method and were subsequently mixed with bovine bone and blood powder to improve the nutrient content. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed pure zeolitic crystalline phases, while elemental composition studies through X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF) demonstrated high levels of Si, Al, Ca, P, K, and N species, indicating successful incorporation of nutrients and as well determining the concentration of trace elements, which is below the USEPA standard. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis revealed distinct bands, as seen at 3277, 1638, 1036, and 565-467 cm^-1, supportive evidence of hydroxyl, phosphate, and aluminosilicate groups. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses both indicated pores and irregular shapes of particles, which contributed to an increased surface area and possible retention of nutrients. The nanofertilizer developed was used again to evaluate its impact on maize (Zea mays L.) production relative to control (no fertilizer) and conventional fertilizer treatment. It assessed phenology, growth, and yield. Nanofertilizer treatment has greater grain yield components (8.10 t/ha) when compared with conventional ones (7.84 t/ha).This result provides evidence for the zeolite-based nanofertilizer being a sustainable, effective choice for increasing maize productivity that contributes to circular economy in agriculture.