DOI: https://doi.org/10.55373/mjchem.v24i2.24

Keywords: Acidic soil; coconut shell ash; soil pH

Abstract

Utilisation of coconut shell ash (CSA) might improve plant growth, especially in agricultural activities. This study aims to discover the potential of CSA in decreasing soil acidity, especially in soils that use chemical fertilisers or pesticides during crop production. Coconut (Cocos nucifera) shells were collected and CSA was produced by pyrolysis. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis was then used to determine the chemical composition of CSA. Three different amounts of CSA (1.0, 3.0, and 5.0 g) were added to 10 g of acidic soil (pH 3.81) and control soil (pH 7.1). The usage of coconut shell ash was proven to be effective in increasing soil pH (reduces acidity). The highest increment of soil pH, up to 7.12, was achieved when 5.0 g of CSA was added. This result suggests that utilisation of CSA on soil will benefit plant growth, and therefore can be used as an alternative to the usage of lime at a reasonable cost.