Physical and Chemical Properties of Solidified Cultivating Soil Blended with Waste Woody Biomass Prepared by the EICP Method

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to create solidified cultivating soil with a low environmental load, which can be used as a planting base material or cultivating soil. The solidification method adopted was cementation technology using calcium carbonate, chosen for its low environmental impact. The main materials used were woody materials derived from waste, such as coir, sawdust, and bamboo powder. The physicochemical properties of the obtained solidified cultivating soil were analyzed and compared with existing products. The results showed that, in terms of physical properties, the solidified cultivating soil did not exhibit significant differences in permeability and water retention compared to existing products. This indicates that the physical properties measured in this study are comparable to those of existing products. In term of chemical properties, the solidified cultivating soil had higher values for pH, EC (electrical conductivity), total nitrogen, and ammonia nitrogen compared to existing products, while showing a lower C/N ratio. These results appear to be due to the effects of calcium carbonate and ammonia generated during the cementation process. The findings suggest that the previously disadvantageous ammonia generation could potentially be converted into benefits, such as serving as a nitrogen source for plants and contributing to the reduction of the C/N ratio.