Development of an organic and mineral based soil conditioner

Abstract

The project involved the selection of a group of inorganic materials (lime­stones, dolomites and phosphates) and organic materials (coffee and rice husks), with the addition of chemical compounds such as borax and copper sulfate, that replace biochemical needs of soils with low productivity, in order to obtain a soil conditioner product with a wide application range by its composition, with a competitive price to alternatives on the market and versatility in the compositions to meet specific needs of soils for agricultural use. Firstly, raw materials produced in Huila were selected with the aim of improving the competitiveness of the mining sector and reduce production costs, then physico-chemical characteristics were identified to determine the nutrient availability for incorporation into plants. Based on the chemical reactions of chelation, on which there are elements capable of assimilation such as phosphorus, calcium and magnesium, two mixtures of organic-mineral character were designed as soil conditioners with the addition of product mixtures of organic synthesis that improves moisture retention in the soil, an element of innovation to compete in the market for soil conditioners. Soil conditioners usually contain organic and mineral materials that collectively provide the necessary characteristics to keep optimal soil. Rocks such as calcite (CaCO3), dolomite (CaMg (CO3)2) and phosphate (Ca3(PO4)2) serve as a source of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus; while organic materials such as coffee husk and rice husk support a range of enzymatic activities, and resistance to the proliferation of fungi and bacteria.