Environmental Impacts of Different Levels of Diapers Absorbents on the Physical Fertility Status of a Typical Sandy Soil


Authors : Tangban Eji Ejor; Aboh Andrew Ashieta; Udama Phidel Ichuware; Ovat Innocent Ovat

Volume/Issue : Volume 9 - 2024, Issue 11 - November

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/3af6h5ty

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/mees9byw

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24NOV851

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Abstract : The increasing prevalence of disposable diapers poses significant environmental challenges, particularly concerning their impact on soil health through improper disposal. This study investigates the effects of varying levels of diaper absorbents on the physical fertility status of a typical sandy soil, characterized by its low nutrient retention and water-holding capabilities. We conducted a controlled experiment at the Teaching and Research Farm of the University of Cross River State, Nigeria, examining six treatments with different concentrations of diaper absorbents (0g, 40g, 80g, 120g, 160g, and 200g per 10kg of soil). Key soil parameters, including pH, bulk density, total porosity, degree of saturation, and available moisture holding capacity, were analyzed over four weeks. Results indicated a significant decrease in soil pH with increasing absorbent levels, suggesting enhanced soil acidity linked to microbial activity and organic acid release. The degree of saturation increased from 12.20% in the zero absorbent treatment to 58.03% in the 200g treatment, indicating improved water retention capabilities. Additionally, bulk density decreased from 1.30 g/cm3 to 0.86 g/cm3, and total porosity increased from 51.09% to 67.42%, reflecting better soil structure and aeration with higher absorbent levels. These findings underscore the potential of diaper absorbents to modify key physical properties of sandy soils, with implications for agricultural practices and waste management strategies. Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing sustainable approaches to mitigate the environmental impacts associated with diaper disposal while preserving soil fertility and ecosystem health.

References :

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The increasing prevalence of disposable diapers poses significant environmental challenges, particularly concerning their impact on soil health through improper disposal. This study investigates the effects of varying levels of diaper absorbents on the physical fertility status of a typical sandy soil, characterized by its low nutrient retention and water-holding capabilities. We conducted a controlled experiment at the Teaching and Research Farm of the University of Cross River State, Nigeria, examining six treatments with different concentrations of diaper absorbents (0g, 40g, 80g, 120g, 160g, and 200g per 10kg of soil). Key soil parameters, including pH, bulk density, total porosity, degree of saturation, and available moisture holding capacity, were analyzed over four weeks. Results indicated a significant decrease in soil pH with increasing absorbent levels, suggesting enhanced soil acidity linked to microbial activity and organic acid release. The degree of saturation increased from 12.20% in the zero absorbent treatment to 58.03% in the 200g treatment, indicating improved water retention capabilities. Additionally, bulk density decreased from 1.30 g/cm3 to 0.86 g/cm3, and total porosity increased from 51.09% to 67.42%, reflecting better soil structure and aeration with higher absorbent levels. These findings underscore the potential of diaper absorbents to modify key physical properties of sandy soils, with implications for agricultural practices and waste management strategies. Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing sustainable approaches to mitigate the environmental impacts associated with diaper disposal while preserving soil fertility and ecosystem health.

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