The Effect of Moisture on the Decomposition of Agricultural Waste Materials (Sugarcane Leaves) for Pots

Abstract

The study aimed to examine the influence of moisture on the decomposition rate of sugarcane leaves, which are agricultural waste materials, to serve as a basis for predicting the lifespan of sugarcane leaves when processed into plant pots.                   The experiment was designed as a batch experiment, divided into three test conditions: Test1(Control); The second test (Test2) set was irrigation every other day in the morning and evening, while the third test (Test3) set was irrigated every morning and evening. The experiment was carried out during 30 days, with samples taken every 3 days to measure the soil's dry weight, pH levels, and moisture content. The Results indicated that the constant decompositions rate (kDR) of the material being tested achieved its highest level at 0.063 mgmaterial d-1g-1soil, with pH and moisture content levels of 4.87±0.33 and 87.57±10.32 %, respectively, in the third test set compared to the first test set (control set). However, compared to the second test set (Test2) revealing a degradation rate (kDR) of 0.064 mg-g per day of soil, with acid-alkalinity and moisture levels of 5.14±0.29 and 71.26±9.33%, respectively, no significant variation was observed in the value at a 95% confidence level (P≤0.05). As a result, it might be implied that humidity levels above 56% don't affect the workpiece's decomposition rate.