MIIX Virtua

This study focuses on sustainable soil enrichment by developing hydrogels from discarded silk cocoons as mulch, combined with biochar, to enhance fertilizer efficiency and soil moisture retention. Four experimental sets were implemented, including a control, 15-15-15 fertilizer, 15-15-15 + hydrogel, and 15-15-15 + biochar + hydrogel. N-P-K values in soil and water runoff were measured over 50 days, while soil moisture was tracked using Arduino. The Hydrogel + Biochar + Fertilizer 15-15-15 set exhibited the highest N-P-K values, peaking at 42 days, surpassing the control by 11 days. Low N-P-K values in water runoff indicated efficient nutrient absorption. Fertilizer 15-15-15 + Biochar + Hydrogel demonstrated significantly higher soil moisture, whereas the control (Fertilizer 15-15-15) had the lowest moisture content. Success was attributed to the synergistic effects of hydrogels, biochar, and fertilizer, maintaining soil moisture and prolonging nutrient release. The sericin hydrogel acted as an efficient mulch, and biochar enhanced moisture retention. Prolonged nutrient release in Hydrogel + Biochar + Fertilizer 15-15-15 suggests sustainability in agriculture. The combination of sericin hydrogels, biochar, and balanced fertilizer demonstrated enhanced efficiency and improved soil moisture retention. Utilizing waste materials like silk cocoons promotes resource-efficient agriculture. Further research can scale up this approach for broader applications, fostering sustainable farming practices.