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A Novel Approach to Improving Crop Yields via Waste Application: Analyzing Effects of Soybean Curd Residue on Soil Productivity Ella Wang

JSHS · 2020

BASIS Chandler, Jesse Nims · Chandler, Arizona

Overview

BASIS Chandler This project explores the potential of utilizing soybean curd residue (SCR) to improve soil productivity and drought resistance by analyzing its effects on the nitrogen and potassium concentrations, water-holding capacity, and permeability of soil. A few hundred million tons of SCR are generated annually as a byproduct of soybean manufacturing. Currently, this waste material is dumped into landfills, which poses environmental problems because it is highly susceptible to putrefaction and releases greenhouse gases. In this study, different concentrations of SCR and two types of SCR, wet and dry, were analyzed to determine effects on soil productivity. Experiments revealed that adding SCR to soil raises nitrogen and potassium levels from Depleted to Sufficient, with an estimated five to six times higher nutrient concentration than the control. SCR lowers soil permeability and significantly increases water-holding capacity. Compared to the control, soils with SCR retained over triple the amount of water for up to ten times longer. Higher water-holding capacity assists in relieving drought and prevents leaching; lower permeability inhibits rapid water drainage, giving plants more time to absorb moisture. The elevated levels of nitrogen and potassium, which are limiting nutrients, in soils with SCR substantially enhance soil fertility and allow for greater productivity. SCR presents a practical, cost-effective method to improve crop yields and agricultural sustainability while reducing wastes that negatively impact the environment. This novel application method redefines the potential of waste and finds a synergistic solution in the complex waste-food- environmentenergy nexus with the potential to alleviate food crisis.

Competition history

  • JSHS 2020 Category not listed

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