Adrian Bernard A. Dofitas Ashley Monique L.. Isleta Chris Mikaela J. Villegas (March 2013)
Philippine Science High School Western Visayas Campus – Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PSHS WVC), Brgy. Bito-on, Jaro, Iloilo City 5000, Philippines
ABSTRACT
Soil pH levels can affect plant development. Soils may become acidic in the long term as a result of several natural processes. In the short term, however, soil acidity develops mainly due to the application of nitrogen-based fertilizers. Coconut shells are considered as waste products of market operations. In this study, coconut shells were combusted to produce coconut shell ash (CSA). The ash was applied to soil samples and the immediate and short-term effects on the soil pH were measured by acid-base titration. The buffer capacity of the CSA treated soil was also investigated. Coconut shell ash exhibits a buffering effect of 0.016 cmol/pH, which is appropriate for the soil pH.