Improving Ammonium and Nitrate Release from Urea Using Clinoptilolite Zeolite and Compost Produced from Agricultural Wastes
The research paper investigates the effectiveness of clinoptilolite zeolite and compost derived from agricultural waste in enhancing the release of ammonium (NH4+) and nitrate (NO3-) from urea, a commonly used nitrogen fertilizer. The study addresses the environmental concerns associated with urea application, such as ammonia volatilization and nitrate leaching, which can lead to groundwater contamination.
The research involved soil incubation and leaching experiments using Bekenu Series soil (Typic Paleudults) over periods of 30, 60, and 90 days. The results indicated that the addition of clinoptilolite zeolite and compost significantly reduced NH4+ leaching compared to urea alone. Specifically, urea combined with clinoptilolite zeolite and compost showed improved retention of NH4+ and NO3- in the soil, attributed to the high cation exchange capacity (CEC) of clinoptilolite and the organic matter content in compost.
The study also highlighted the chemical properties of the soil, clinoptilolite zeolite, and compost, demonstrating that the amendments not only enhanced nitrogen retention but also positively influenced soil pH and overall nutrient availability. The findings suggest that the combination of clinoptilolite zeolite and compost can effectively mitigate nitrogen losses from urea, thereby improving nitrogen use efficiency in agricultural practices.
This research paper is significant in the field of agricultural science and environmental management as it addresses the critical issue of nitrogen loss from fertilizers, which poses a risk to both crop productivity and environmental health. By exploring sustainable practices such as the use of clinoptilolite zeolite and compost, the research contributes to ongoing discussions about improving nitrogen utilization efficiency and reducing the environmental impact of agricultural practices. The findings offer practical insights for farmers and agricultural practitioners seeking to enhance soil fertility while minimizing nitrogen leaching and its associated environmental risks.
