Abstract:
Transformation of industrial sludges into vermicomposts can convert these wastes into valuable products. This study explores the potential of converting the sugar industrial waste into value added fertilizer and vermicompost. A total of six treatments of sugar sludge with different percentages of sludge and cow dung (CD) were prepared with three replicates. The experiment was conducted in plastic pots at 27 ± 3°C and moisture contents were maintained at 70-80%. The treatments were monitored for the nutrient increments, heavy metals reduction (Fe, Mn, Cu, Ni) and growth of earthworms for 90 days. Earthworms survived only in S3 (300 g sugar mill waste + 200 g CD) and S4 (400 g sugar mill waste + 100 g CD). Earthworms caused a significant change in the chemical composition of these treatments. Increase in number and bodyweights of earthworms, pH, EC1:1, N, P, K and heavy metals reduction were significantly (p p 1:1, N, P & K) and heavy metals contents of sugar vermicomposts were in compliance with the standard end use compost limits and were suitable to be used as effective organic fertilizers and soil conditioners for agriculture purposes.
Page(s):
115-123
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: Biologia, Volume: 59, Issue: 1, Year: 2013