CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

The soil is the resource that provides the most necessities for life on Earth.

It plays a vital role that impacts the environment and the environmental challenges

facing the world. Individuals are progressively depending on the ecological roles

of the soil as it performs six roles in the ecosystem: promoting plant growth, largely

controlling the flow of water through the hydrological cycle, reuse of waste material

from community and nature, changing the structure and properties of the

environment, creating shelter for a wide array of biodiversity, and functioning in

built environments as construction material and support for building foundations

(Brady & Weil, 2008).

In this study, the researchers focus on the first role of the soil in the

ecosystem which is supporting plant growth and the most commonly used soil type

for planting which is the loam soil.

Soil acidity is one of the main factors which continuously limit the

opportunities to make good profits on the market. It is simply because of the

negligible reduction in the output of good-quality crops that soil acidity creates. It

could disrupt the balance of demand and provide a loop for buyers and producers.

The typical factors why soils acquire acidity are caused by leaching,

erosion, crop uptake of basic cations (Ca2+, Mg3+, K+), decay of plant residues,
 2

H+ ion which are released when high amounts of aluminum (Al3+) into the soil

reacts using the water molecules and Nitrogen sources who supply Ammonium

(ammonium nitrate, urea fertilizers and manures) (Beegle & Lingenfelter, 2014).

According to Beegle and Lingenfelter (2014), there are elements of soil

acidity: active acidity and exchangeable (reserve) acidity. The former is a

concentration of H+ ion in the solution phase associated with the soil and is

measured by pH yet not a measure of the full total soil acidity which makes it as

general indicator of whether a neutralizer is required to reduce acidity. The latter

is the amount of H+ ions on cation exchange sites of negatively charged clay and

organic matter fractions of the soil. It determines the quantity of neutralizer required

to raise the soil pH.

In accordance with a published article by SunStar Philippines, farmers of

Bauko, Mt. Province, expressed organic farming is a challenge in their community

because the soil has grown to become acidic. Due to the acidity, plant growth has

grown to become difficult causing decrease in the yield. Agriculture Secretary

Proceso Alcala said the normal high acidity in agricultural soil is most probably due

to the improper usage of fertilizers.

Based on another published article because of the SunStar Philippines,

experts revealed the strawberry production of Benguet is currently suffering from

chemicals and climate change. Silvestre Kudan, farming expert and also the

director regarding the Office regarding the Extension Services of Benguet State

University (BSU), said the yield associated with the strawberry fields of La Trinidad

are now actually described as stunted and possess unusual shapes due to the
 3

continuous usage of synthetics that will be compounded by climate change. He

said farmers carry on using chemicals like insecticides and pesticides regardless

if predatory mites along with other pests are not around anymore. He added due

to the fact after effectation of this practice, the soil associated with farm became

extremely acidic. He cited predicated on a current study associated with school,

the soil acidity has become at 4.1 to 5 that is way below the mandatory 5.5 to 6.8

soil acidity. He added with this particular highly acidic soil, many problems

occurred such as the scarcity of nutrients towards the plants which usually resulted

in the unusual shapes of strawberries. He added flowers for the strawberries are

typically damaged that could result in fruitless crops.

These issues prompted the researchers to conduct this study, since it is

timely and a relevant issue that the agriculture society is facing. This study aims to

neutralize and increase the pH level of acidic soils using domestic pig’s bile. All

this time, domestic pig’s (Sus scrofa domesticus) bile is being thrown and set

aside. After getting the other parts of the pig which is edible, domestic pig’s (Sus

scrofa domesticus) bile will just be thrown away without knowing that it can be

useful in treating an acidic soil to become neutral.

A soil that have a well-maintained pH will maximize crops and pasture

choice, prevent production losses that is cause by low pH, and preserve the worth

of the soil resource. A soil pH variety of 5.5 – 8 supports plant growth and a lot of

soil processes, including nutrient availability and microbial activity. The restriction

of root usage of water and nutrients is cause by the acidic soil, especially in the

subsurface (Galloway, 1963).

 4

Having the information from above being merged, the researchers came to

a decision to conduct a study “A Quantitative investigation on Domestic Pig’s Bile

to Acidic Loam Soil” People do not know that wastes are not just wastes, wastes

are sometimes a bio waste that can be recycled or reused in a helpful way.

According to Tozsin and Kalkan (2014), studies have been carried out to

neutralize acidic soil. Such as "Granular soil neutralizer and the process of

preparing the said product". It states that "soil conditioners, particularly ground

limestone (CaCO and dolomitic limestone (CaOMgO-2CO are widely used for

application to soil in agricultural areas to reduce soil acidity. To a lesser extent,

C210 and Ca(OH) are used. The standard of a crushed limestone is dependent

upon its purity and fineness. The various forms of limestone materials dissolve

within the acid soil moisture very slowly and, therefore, the rate of reaction with

soil moisture to attenuate soil acidity is actually a function when it comes to

measurements of limestone particles and, to a substandard extent, the sort of

material as well as the amount of mixing utilizing the soil. The finer the particle

size, the higher could be the specific surface that allows more material to be

contacted as a result of moisture. The rise in specific surface may potentially

result in the limestone material to be dissolved faster, thereby neutralizing soil

acidity at a faster rate than may be possible with coarsely ground material."

(Galloway, 1963).

A further study states that "Marble quarry waste (MQW) and marble cutting

waste (MCW) were put on an acid soil at different rates and their effectiveness on

neutralization was evaluated by a laboratory incubation test. The outcome

 5

indicated that soil pH increased from 4.71 to 6.36 and 6.84 by applications of MCW

and MQW, respectively. It had been suggested that MQW and MCW could

possibly be used as soil amendments when it comes to neutralization of acid soils

and therefore the negative impact of marble wastes regarding the environment

might be reduced" (Tozsin and Kalkan, 2014).

According to Sambrook (1981), an agglomerate for use as a soil conditioner

and to provide a supply of nutrient values, the agglomerate being formed by

pelletizing a preagglomerate containing a particulate calcium source selected

through the group made up of limestone, dolomitic limestone, gypsum, hydrated

lime and mixtures thereof, a primary plant nutrient source selected through the

group made up of alkali metal nitrates, urea, ammonium nitrate, ammonium

sulfate, ammonium phosphate, rock phosphate, bone meal slag, aluminum

phosphate, superphosphate, potash potassium chloride, potassium sulfate,

potassium nitrate and mixtures thereof and a water-soluble binder, the proportions

from the particulate calcium source as well as primary plant nutrient source into

the preagglomerate being sufficient in a manner that the agglomerate comprises

about 15% to about 60% by weight connected with particulate calcium source and

about 30% to about 80% by weight when it comes to primary plant nutrient source,

the particulate calcium source having a particle size distribution making sure that

less than about 1% by weight connected with particulate calcium source is +20

mesh, less than about 10% by weight connected with particulate calcium source is

−20 +100 mesh as well as at the very least about 90% by weight for this particulate

calcium source is −325 mesh Tyler Standard Sieve Series, the preagglomerate
 6

having a particle size distribution in order that lower than about 1% by weight linked

to the preagglomerate is +20 mesh, less than about 15% by weight associated with

preagglomerate is −20 +100 mesh, a maximum of about 25% by weight connected

with preagglomerate is −100 +150, at the minimum about 50% by weight about the

preagglomerate is −200 mesh along with least about 5% by weight connected with

preagglomerate is −325 mesh Tyler Standard Sieve Series, the agglomerate

exhibiting an average green crush strength with no less than about 2 pounds when

sized to from −7 to +8 mesh Tyler Standard Sieve Series.

Domestic pig’s bile is a common waste that can be utilized to maintain a

healthy soil. Domestic pigs are widely distributed and domesticated all over the

country. This could be a great way to make use of wastes as treatment for acidic

soil for plants to grow fruitfully.

In this study, the researchers aim to identify the approximate amount and

quantity of bile juice needed to neutralize a certain amount of acidic soil and to

potentially increase the soil nutrient content. This study also intends to produce

low-cost neutralizers since the bile is just a waste. This study also aims to spot the

difference of the quality of neutralization of acidic soils by the commercialized

neutralizer and the pig’s bile.

This study is beneficial to everyone since the researchers use the wastes

thrown by slaughterhouses. It primarily helps the farmers and growers to produce

good quantity and quality of crops that are sold on the market. This study is also

beneficial to future researchers as guide and serves as an underlying study.

 7

1.2 Statement of the Problem

This study aims to investigate the effects of the pig's bile when applied to

an acidic loam soil. Specifically, it sought to find the answers to the following

questions:

1. What are the effects on the acidic soil when pig’s bile is applied?

2. At what exact concentration (0%, 5%, 10%, and 15%) of fermented

Domestic Pig's (Sus scrofa domesticus) bile and muscovado exhibits the best

neutralizing effect?

3. Based on the investigation, what intervention would be appropriate to

use?

1.3 Objectives

 To identify the factors affecting soil acidity

 Aim to identify the exact concentration (0%, 5%, 10%, and 15%) of

fermented Domestic Pig's (Sus scrofa domesticus) bile and muscovado

needed to neutralize a certain amount of acidic soil.

 Make use of Domestic pig's (Sus scrofa domesticus) bile as an alternative

soil neutralizer

1.4 Significance of the Study

This study is beneficial to the farmers since it brings solution to the acidity

of loam soil that they use for farming. Comparing an acidic soil to a neutralized

soil, plants grow more on a soil that is neutralized. An ideal condition for a plant to
 8

grow in pH condition ranges from 5.5-7.0 pH. A soil that is neutral can sustain life

and give a good amount of nutrients thus giving the farmers a motivation to plant

more. Pig’s bile as soil neutralizer is also cost-efficient, making the farmers spend

less time in conditioning the soil while more time in planting while spending less.

Having more time in planting could give an increase in production of resources and

more income for the farmers. Furthermore, it benefits the farmers in a way that

there are more stable sources of crop production. This would slowly decrease the

import of crops from different countries and there would be more exportation of our

own planted and harvested crops. A good, healthy and cheap soil neutralizer would

motivate our own government to support our farmers to plant more thus making

the economy stable.

This study is beneficial to the consumers especially the market buyers

since there is an increase in production, and this would greatly help the market

buyers for it is affordable and cheaper than those being imported outside the

nation. Consumers are now be spending less and earn more compared to what

they are used to which is spend more get less.

This study is beneficial to the CIT-U STEM Students especially students

who will be taking Biology and Chemistry Courses as the information of this

research study can be used as basis and reference for those who are interested

to further investigate and conduct a similar study in nature to this one.

The study would be very helpful to the future researchers as reference and

foundation for their future studies.

 9

1.5 Definition of Terms

This section provides the terms used in this study which are defined operationally

to give a better understanding to the readers and future researchers. The terms

are:
 10

Basicity

It is the pH level of the soil that the researchers aim to accomplish.

Domestic Pig

It is the tamed pig that is treated with care which is found in any household.

Extract

It is the product that is attained through removing unessential parts.

Granules

It is the specific shape which enables the researchers to achieve a common

state.

Loam Soil

It is the variable that receives the intervention and treatments in the

experiment.

Neutralize

It is the process of turning any substance from its acidic level into its basic

level.

Nutrient

It is the substance that the researchers aim to increase when pig's bile is

applied.

pH level
 11

It is the material that is used to determine whether the loam soil is acidic or

not.

Pig’s Bile

It is the waste variable from the domestic pig that is essential in neutralizing

the acidic loam soil.

Soil Neutralizer

It is the needed material of the experiment to turn an acidic soil to basic.

 Chapter 2

THEORETICAL BACKGROUND

2.1 Theory

Crystallization Theory is a method which has had for ages been found in

the purification of substances. Leaching of bases from soils as well as the acids

produced during organic matter decomposition combined to help make these soils

naturally acidic. As soils are brought into production and organic matter was

decomposed (mineralized), more acids were formed. In addition, all of the widely

used N fertilizers are acidic—needing from 4 to 7 pounds of agricultural limestone

to neutralize the acid formed from each pound of N placed on soils. The key

objective of the theory would be to neutralize acidic and basic soil because of it to

boost its production rate (Bolan, N.S & Adriano, D.C, 2005). Soil acidification is an

all-natural procedure that may either be accelerated by certain plants and human

activities or slowed up by careful management practices. Industrial and mining

activities result in soil acidification as a result of acid made out of pyrite oxidation

and from acid precipitation due to the emission of sulfur (S) and nitrogen (N) gases.

In managed ecosystems, soil acidification is principally brought on by the

production of protons (H+) through the transformation and cycling of carbon (C),

N, and S, and fertilizer reactions. Soil acidification brought on by these procedures

may have adverse impacts where soils aren't able to buffer against further pH

decrease. As an example, in components of the United States and Europe, soil

 13

acidification due to acid precipitation has led to forest decline and, in certain

components of Australia, continuous legume cultivation and inappropriate usage

of N fertilizer have generated sufficient soil acidity that cereal crop cultivation has

received to be abandoned because of aluminium (Al) and manganese (Mn)

toxicity.

Historically, liming was the most typical management practice used to

neutralize soil acidity. Most plants grow well into the pH range 5.5–6.5, plus the

usual objective of liming programs would be to maintain pH in this range. Liming

improves the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil through its direct

effect in ameliorating soil acidity and through its indirect effects in mobilizing plant

nutrients, immobilizing toxic heavy metals, and improving soil physical conditions.

In variable-charge soils, liming can be utilized as a management tool to govern the

outer lining charge, thereby managing the reactions of nutrient ions and heavy

metals. Liming provides optimum conditions for many biological processes,

including N2 fixation and mineralization of N, phosphorus (P), and S (Bolan, N.S

& Adriano, D.C, 2005). This theory has also been sustained by Berden M, Nilsen

SI, Rosen K, and Tyler G and was used as reference within their study, Soil

Acidification: Extent, Causes and Consequences. National Swedish Environment

Protection Board Report 3292. Solna, Sweden: National Swedish Environmental

Protection Board Information Section.

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Theoretical-Conceptual Framework

The study focuses on the soil acidity of loam soil that affects the growth of

plants and bring big problem for farmers. The study is supported by the soil

crystallization theory proposed by Bolan N.S & Adriano, D.C. It also focuses on

solving which concentration is the most effective in neutralizing the acidic loam

soil, also to increase the pH level of acidic soils. The researchers proposed an

intervention which is Domestic Pig’s Bile Acidic soil neutralizer in neutralizing

acidic loam soil.

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SOIL
ACIDIFICATION

SOIL CRYSTALLIZATION
THEORY

Bolan, N.S. &

Adriano, D.C.

Effects of acidic soil with Pig’s

Bile

Increased
Neutralized Fertilized
nutrient
content

Concentration of Pig’s Bile

Control Group Experimental Group

0% 5% 10% 15%

DOMESTIC PIG’S BILE AS AN

ACIDIC LOAM SOIL
NEUTRALIZER

Fig. 1 Theoretical – Conceptual Framework in Schematic Diagram of the Study

 16

2.2 Review of Related Literature

Soil acidity was one of the vital factors that limit the productivity and

efficiency of numerous tropical soils. CaCO3 and MgCO3 are utilized for the

enhancement of this issue. These ordinary liming materials are rare, pricey and

past the compass of asset of poor farmers. In any case, a few studies have

demonstrated that expansion of certain materials of natural starting point, for

example, plant materials and poultry compost to corrosive soils expands the soil

pH significantly (Hue and Amien, 1989).

Simple correlation analysis was used to elucidate the mechanism of

reaction leading to the neutralization of soil acidity by the animal manures. If

complexation of Al3+ in soil solution by decomposing organic matter is the

mechanism as suggested by Bartlett and Riego (1972) and Hue et al., (1986), the

soil organic matter content will be positively correlated with soil pH. Soil organic

matter did not correlate positively with pH, indicating that this is not the mechanism

of the reaction. However exchangeable Ca correlated positively and strongly with

soil pH. This indicates that as the organic manures mineralize, Ca ions are

released into the soil solution. The released Ca2+ ions get hydrolyzed. The

Calcium hydroxide formed reacts with soluble aluminium ions in the soil solution

to give insoluble Al (OH)3. The hydroxide of the calcium hydroxide reacts with

hydrogen ions to form water (Hue and Amien, 1989).

The effects of animal manure to increase soil pH were observable. Animal

manures such as poultry manure (POM), rabbit manure (RBM), and swine manure

(SWM) produced the greatest effect in increasing soil pH while cow manure (COM)
 17

comes in second and lastly the goat manure (GTM). It is inferred that the soil pH

increases as the rate of application of the manures also increases and it also

decreases soil exchangeable acidity. The swine manure had the most effect in

decreasing soil exchangeable acidity from 3.00 cmol/kg to 0.13 cmol/kg. The order

of the ability of the various manures to reduce exchangeable acidity conforms to

the same order of their ability to increase soil pH. It therefore follows that the ability

of the manures to improve soil pH lies on their capability to reduce exchangeable

acidity which comprises exchangeable hydrogen and aluminum ions. Application

of animal manures also has the ability to reduce soil organic carbon compared to

the control. Marchner and Noble (2000) obtained reduction in soil organic carbon

when leaf litter materials was used in incubating an acidic soil and it led to an

observation of an increase in microbial respiration stimulated by the added

manure. Application of animal manures slightly increased the soil exchangeable

Mg. The highest effect was obtained with COM followed by RBM. Exchangeable

Ca was highly increased by the application of the manures. Swine and poultry

manures increased soil exchangeable Ca more than 3 folds (Hue and Amien,

1989).

In a study conducted by Hue and Amien, five different manures are used as

agents for neutralization of acidic soils. Knowing the effectiveness of the different

manures in neutralizing the soil lies in the rates of application and types of chemical

compositions. It has been proven in this study that these manures can increase

the soil pH by increasing soil exchangeable acidity as H+ ions were exchanged to

the Al+ ions present in the acidic soil, making it neutral.

 18

Eggshells are waste material from hatcheries, homes and fast food industries (Phil

and Zhihong, 2009; amu et.al., 2005) it can be collected in plenty. These eggshells

disposal contributes to the environmental pollution. There are a lot of challenges

in disposing these eggshells it includes availability disposal sites, cost, odor, flies

and abrasiveness (Phil and Zhihong, 2009). However it can be made as a saleable

product such as art work, fertilizer and building materials for its produces collagen.

Eggshell is the best natural source of calcium. These uses minimize their effect

about 90% absorbable (Bee, 2011). In making the eggshell powder, boil the

eggshells in hot water which comprises of calcified shell and it takes 10 minutes

for the pathogen inside the shell to die. Then air dry after. Next is to grind the inner

and outer membranes into fine powder. The powder should be 0.9% Calcium

carbonate, Magnesium and Phosphorous (phosphate) respectively (Romanoff et

al., 1949). Shell membranes comprises of 69.2% protein, 2.7% fat, 1.5% moisture

and 27.2% ash (MacNeil, 1997). Shell membranes protein comprises of

approximately 10% collagen (Froning, 1998). These eggshells have little saleable

value as these are not edible by-products but may contain biologically active

compounds (Nakano et al., 2003).

Utilizing eggshells in this study is useful for neutralizing acidic soils since it

has basic substances that can help increase soil pH. Therefore, lessening the

wastes from eggshells and becomes bio wastes when utilized (Phil and Zhihong,

2009; amu et al., 2005).

The effect of biochar addition on the chemical properties of acidic soil such

as pH, electrical conductivity (EC0, cation exchange capacity (CEC) and

 19

exchangeable acidity were investigated in order to know and asses the liming

potential of biochar. The study was conducted for 165 days thru the process of

incubating the acidic soil (clayey, smectitic, acid, mesic, shallow, Aridic Ustorthent)

with the pH around <4.80 and with the use of biochar. The process of producing

biochar was obtain from two biomass feedstock such as corn stove (Zea mays L.)

and switchgrass (Panicum Virgatum L.) by pyrolizing it in microwave (at 650 C). At

a different rate (0, 52,104 and 156 Mg ha-1) the Corn Stover biochar, switchgrass

biochar and lime (calcium carbonate) were applied to an acidic soil. The acidity of

soil were affected by the Amendment type, application rate and their interaction

this had a significant effects (p<0.05) on soil pH, EC, and CEC. The use of corn

stove biochar had shown a relatively larger effect in increasing soil pH compared

to the switchgrass biochar at all application rates. The ameliorating effect of the

different biochar on the acidic soil’s properties was consistent with their chemical

composition (Chintala, Mollinedo, Schumacher, Malo & Julson, 2014).

The study about the “Effect of biochar on chemical properties of acidic soil”

made use of biochar charcoal that are used to as soil amendments. Biochar is a

biomass that can only be obtain from sustainable resources and are added in soils

that made them useful in enhancing and stabilizing their agricultural and

environmental value which are useful for present and future administration.

According to Lehmann and Joseph, charcoals in the present days are use

as fuels for heat , as a filter and it pave way to the reduction of iron making or the

coloring agent that are now greatly used in art or in the coloring agent industry.

The property of Biochar to help in retaining water and nutrients are essential for
 20

plants to continue stabilizing their growth. N20 emission and some metals causes

the nature of the acidic soils with the aid of the Biochar it increases soil pH because

it has the ability to reduce N20 emission.

A technique that has been done for decades in neutralizing soil is the use

of alkaline fly ash after the combustion of the Lignite as the neutralizer for acidic

soils. The direct Application of Fly ash has its enormous disadvantages it is

gradually modified to make use the material to its prior and proper use. Magnetic

activator is the material use to further modify the fly ash, the magnetic activator

breaks the fly ash to small grain sizes and modify its properties. The main purpose

of the research is to compare on the properties of unmodified fly ash with those

ashes that are being modified thru magnetic activator in terms on which best

neutralizes the acidic soil. The Ash Basic components were ash silicates (33.28%

of Si02) and calcium compounds (31.26% of CaO). The low heavy metal content

falling with in soil range characteristics of coal ash and meeting soil quality

standard requirements. Changes were observe and obtained in the comparison

between the properties of modified ash to an unmodified ash: sand fraction

content-reduced to 0.40, silty fraction content-increase by 1.40, silt fraction content

– increased by 1.68, content of the sum of the dust and silt fraction –increased by

1.49 specific surface-increases by 1.65 finesse –reduced by o.48. The results have

found that modification of fly ash have improved the different properties of ash as

an alternative soil neutralizer,, and its chemical properties make lots of application

as possible (Cwiakla, Greiner, Kostecki, & Rafalski, 2018.)

 21

The study is entitled as “The possibility of the use of Modified Flight Ash as

a neutralizer in the Acidic Soil Reclamation Processes “the study focuses on the

efficiency of neutralizing capacity of modified and unmodified flight ash. The results

pave way to the results that modified fly ash has a higher chance and capability of

increasing soil pH.

Biomass is an organic matter based on living or recently living plant and

animal that could be used as fuel. It offers wood and agricultural waste such as for

example dead plant, etc. nearly all population in India's primary income source

depends largely upon agriculture. A lot of biomass this is certainly generated to

each and every harvest is certainly caused by discarded as agro waste. Producing

biomass char and flue gases in the act of thermochemical in absence of oxygen

are very important in economy. Additionally, it is essential to characterize the

physical and chemical properties of those components to work with their potential

benefit into the fullest. Six different biomass stay in this research include mustard

plant, groundnut plant, cotton plant, wheat plant, pigeon peas, and groundnut shell

which were paralyzed at 650 °C, in vertical downdraft fixed-bed biomass reactor.

Gas chromatography helped characterized the flue gases at length. In BMC

(biomass char), x-ray fluorescence, proximate, and ultimate analyses were

performed, and properties such as for example porosity, particle density, and bulk

density, point of zero charge, surface pH, surface charges, water-absorption

capacity, and BET surface area were determined. SEM and FTIR were also carried

out on all BMC samples. The alkaline nature should exceed 8.6 pH solutions which

can be confirmed for several BMC. The outcome revealed that the area of biomass
 22

char varies from 38 to 138 m2/g. The alkaline nature should exceed 8.6 pH

solutions that is the outcome for several BMC. Comparison between combustion

products manufactured in the presence (biomass ash) and lack of oxygen

(biomass char) is presented. BMC finds applications in agriculture, soil neutralizer,

adsorbent, and soil additive. They usually have high quantity of carbon and

certainly will work as an abundant carbon source for the soil. Flue gases released

contain methane and hydrogen that may also improve economic value for the char

formation process (Trivedi, Mandavgane, Chaurasia, 2018).

Infertility of acid soils is a vital limitation to crop production on highly

weathered and leached soils around the globe. The main characteristics among

these soils are their low pH, lower quantities of organic matter, Ca, Mg, P, or Mo

deficiency, Al or Mn toxicity, or both, and intensely low mineralization and

nitrification rates. Lime is typically recommended to correct soil acidity, but lime is

unaffordable for resource-poor farmers in to the tropics. Many alternatives have

now been proposed, and one of them products from organic waste elements, e.g.,

composts, are in reality a simple yet effective alternative to the use of lime. Wood

ash is a potential method of getting trace elements, nutrients, and lime. Wood ash

may be used as an additive to fertilizer, and wood ash admixture to organic wastes

prior to composting is famous to boost compost quality and could reduce steadily

the standard of compost likely to raise the pH to suitable levels. Wood ash compost

as a liming agent as a substitute for lime may potentially help in remediating acidity

and base deficiency along with boosting the soil microbial pool in tropical

agricultural soils (Bougnom, Knapp, Etoa, Insam, 2011).

 23

The purpose of this research would be to see whether steel slag potentially

might be utilized as an amendment for the reuse of excavated sedimentary rock

naturally containing pyrite as well as the toxic metal cadmium. The goal of this

research would be to elucidate the mechanisms for simultaneous pH neutralization

and cadmium immobilization of excavated sedimentary rock using steel slag under

conditions of concurrent pyrite oxidation (Katoh, Moriguchi, Takagi et al., 2018).

A batch leaching test was conducted using excavated sedimentary rock

(mudstone) which was well blended with steel slag in combinations ranging from

0 to 50 %wt to guage the connection amongst the dosage of steel slag and both

cadmium release while the pH value after 1 month regarding the treated rock.

Another batch leaching test was performed using excavated sedimentary rock

combined with steel slag from 0 to 1.5 %wt to monitor cadmium release and also

the pH as pyrite oxidation proceeded. Cadmium was sobbed on the steel slag to

gauge cadmium sorption ability at pH values of 6.5 and 9.0. The cadmium-sobbed

steel slag determined the crystalline structure together with amount of cadmium

release through the steel slag at different pH values (Katoh, Moriguchi, Takagi et

al., 2018).

The pH of excavated sedimentary rock without steel slag decreased, while

by using a lot more than 0.5 %wt steel slag remained within a neutral to alkaline

pH range after ninety days, when potential pyrite oxidation was complete. The

existence of steel slag failed to inhibit the entire process of pyrite oxidation. These

findings demonstrate that both pyrite oxidation and pH neutralization

independently took place the excavated sedimentary rock, even yet in the current
 24

presence of steel slag. The addition in excess of 0.5 %wt steel slag maintained the

amount of cadmium released at not as much as 0.1 mg kg−1 through the 90-day

period. The cadmium sorption make sure X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that

cadmium immobilization with the steel slag was mainly governed by the

(co)precipitation of carbonate minerals (Katoh, Moriguchi, Takagi et al., 2018).

This research indicates that an addition of 0.5 %wt steel slag towards the

excavated sedimentary rock can perform pH neutralization and suppress cadmium

release simultaneously, despite having the occurrence of pyrite oxidation. Thus,

this research shows that steel slag potentially could possibly be utilized as an

amendment to permit the reuse of excavated sedimentary rock (Katoh, Moriguchi,

Takagi et al., 2018).

In accordance with a published article because of the SunStar Philippines,

farmers from La Trinidad, Benguet producing roses and chrysanthemums are

needs to shift to organic production in order to improve their product and contend

with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) markets. Alno village

chief Barangay Captain, Jonie Puroc said some farmers have tried adding chicken

dung for fertilizer and saw a greater size in chrysanthemum flowers. Farmers are

also trying it on roses with the hope to start to see the same effect. Puroc also said

Alno farmers have now been producing roses and chrysanthemum for many years

using synthetic fertilizer that has accumulated when you look at the soil, which

makes it acidic, affecting the caliber of the flowers .As former president regarding

the rose farmers cooperative prior to being a barangay captain, Puroc said “we

have formed an organic practitioners’ association” to advocate the promotion

 25

associated with the usage of organic fertilizers. The farmers' stance came after

noticing the increasing soil acidity and affecting the creation of flowers. The

farmers have already been producing roses and chrysanthemum for a long time

using synthetic fertilizer which has had accumulated into the soil, rendering it

acidic, affecting the grade of the flowers.

UNILOX Far East Resources Inc. (UFERI) president Nicolas Paradies said

that when farmers use urea, it easily evaporates or leaches into the soil and when

it evaporates, the farmer is just wasting or losing his money and, make the soil

increase its acidity.

Buguias town produces 65 percent of all vegetables in the province. It is

also the home of conventional farmers, as 80 percent of its 43,000 population are

farmers. Their main products are cabbage, lettuce, Chinese pechay, potatoes, and

carrots – or the “chopsuey” ingredients. The high use of commercial pesticides,

fertilizers, and other synthetic chemicals is affecting the normal condition of the

soil in the town, making the soil acidic and prone to different pests. The soil is being

“abused” when its acidity is raised, which is bad for the farmers and the farming

industry in the end. Studies have shown that the use of urea in farming typically

incurs losses from 40 percent to 65 percent of the urea because of its volatile

nature and that’s a lot of wastage. The plant will not get the nutrition that it needs.

Sucrose is a nonreducing disaccharide produced by crystallization from

syrups derived from processing sugarcane and sugarbeets. Sucrose’s most

important properties are its water solubility and its sweetness. The latter is

influenced by temperature, pH, etc, and is synergistic with other sweeteners.

 26

Sucrose is destroyed by strong oxidizing agents, and extremes of pH. Optical

rotation, enzymatic analysis, and instrumental methods are used for sucrose

quantitation. Sucrose is the leading food additive and contributes sweetness,

mouthfeel, texture, body, humectancy, and appearance to foods. Sugar also

enhances the taste of foods and minimizes undesirable flavors. Sugar is one of the

purest foods made from natural sources and has never been known to have

harmful components.

This study outlines the history of sugarcane as a source of sucrose

sweetener, and traces the development of major industrial unit processes for sugar

production. Chemical and physical properties of sucrose and cane sugar are listed.

Cultivation and harvest of sugarcane and product of either raw cane sugar or direct

consumption (plantation white) cane sugar are described. Production of

noncentrifugal cane sugar is described briefly. Production, consumption, and use

statistics are given. Processes for refining raw sugar into refined white and brown

products are delineated, and the products and their standards are described. Other

products from cane sugar and sugarcane are described.

Sugar beets, grown in temperate climates predominately in the northern

hemisphere, provide about one‐third of the world sugar supply and about half of

the U.S. requirements. The crop is usually harvested at the end of the growing

season and held in large storage piles until processing. Cultivation and processing

of sugar beets are detailed.

Sugar analysis includes the determination of sucrose in raw sugar, along

with other quality factors such as moisture, ash, and color, for trading purposes. It
 27

also includes the determination of reducing sugars in products of sugar

manufacture and the determination of sugars in foods in general. Polarimetry,

commonly called polarization in the industry, is the most widely used method for

sugar analysis in commerce, and copper reduction methods are still commonly

used for reducing sugars.

Esters, ethers, acids, polyurethanes, and other polymers are synthesized

from sucrose. Sucrose esters are used as food emulsifiers, fat mimetics,

detergents, bleach boosters, and antibacterials. Selective chlorination converts

sucrose into sucralose, a noncaloric, high intensity sweetener. Alcohols, organic

acids, antibiotics, dextrans, levans, and noncariogenic sweeteners are derived

from sucrose by fermentation. Sucrose is used in medicines to mask unpleasant

tastes, in tablet formulations, and to promote wound healing. Sucrose derivatives

are used in treating ulcers and as antitumor agents. At current consumption rates,

dietary sucrose promotes dental caries, but does not cause diabetes, hyperactivity,

obesity, or heart disease.

Although commercially sucrose is the most important sugar, there are other

special sugars with special applications, among which fructose is the most

important. Fructose, a monosaccharide consisting of one‐half of the sucrose

molecule but having a sweetness 1.3–1.8 times that of sucrose, constitutes 4–8 wt

% of many fruits, where it primarily occurs with glucose (dextrose) and sucrose.

Maltose (malt sugar) is a disaccharide comprising two molecules of glucose.

Although occurring in some plants and fruits, it is more frequently recognized as a

structural component of starch. Lactose (milk sugar) is the only commercially

 28

available sugar that is derived from animal rather than plant sources. It is a

disaccharide consisting of one galactose and one glucose moiety and has only

one‐fifth the sweetening power of sucrose (Colonna, et al., 2006)

The sweet sorghum has been proven to be technically and economically

viable alternative feedstock for bioethanol production in the Philippine setting. The

plantation, agronomic performance and actual bioethanol production of sweet

sorghum was evaluated on different plantation sites nationwide. A hectare of sweet

sorghum plantation can potentially provide farmers annual net income of PhP

80,000 (USD 1,860.47;1 USD = 43 PhP) for a cane selling price of PhP 1,000 t−1

and seed selling price of PhP 13 kg−1. The farmers’ annual income can eventually

increase up to PhP 120,000 (USD 2,790.70) ha−1 for a cane selling price of PhP

1,400 t−1. Standard bioethanol distilleries having an annual capacity of 30 million

liters can possibly set a maximum mark-up of PhP 25.18 or USD 0.59 L−1

bioethanol. Currently, bioethanol industry has pricing index which makes the

domestic pricing competitive against petroleum gasoline and imported bioethanol.

Correlations were generated between economic factors like cane buying price,

production yield and mark-up on the bioethanol selling price and net income for

farmers and distillery (Demafelis, et al., 2013).

The present invention relates to fermented sugarcane obtained from

sugarcane as a raw material, a brown sugar-like food produced therefrom, and a

method for producing these. Sugarcane is a key crop in Okinawa and the Nansei

Islands, and is mainly used as a raw material for sugar production.

 29

In the main island area, honey sugar (crude sugar) is produced from this

sugarcane, and in the remote island area, honey sugar (brown sugar) is produced,

which is also the key industry of the area. However, due to problems such as the

slump in sugar prices and the aging of farmers, the sugar industry is declining

along with the production of raw sugar cane. Therefore, the development of new

uses for sugarcane is an urgent issue from the viewpoint of effective use of

resources and promotion of agriculture.

Until now, sugarcane is known to contain a variety of useful ingredients, and

brown sugar, which is a concentrated processed product, has been traditionally

recognized for its health benefits. In addition, research on the flavor and properties

of brown sugar (Patent Documents 1 and 2) and development of pharmaceuticals

and foods using useful components derived from sugarcane or brown sugar

(Patent Documents 3 to 8) are also being carried out. However, until now, research

on the process for producing brown sugar from sugarcane and the components

contained in brown sugar has not progressed so far. Accordingly, an object of the

present invention is to study a process for producing brown sugar from sugarcane,

components contained in brown sugar, and the like, and to obtain a new food

having excellent functionality using sugarcane as a raw material.

The present inventors have made various studies in order to solve the

above-mentioned problems. As a result, in addition to the components produced

by lactic acid bacteria, γ-amino is contained in the fermented sugar cane obtained

by fermenting the sugarcane juice with lactic acid bacteria. It was found that butyric

acid (GABA) was included at a high concentration. And it discovered that brown
 30

sugar-like food could be manufactured from this sugarcane fermented product.

Moreover, it discovered that the brown sugar-like foodstuff manufactured using this

sugarcane fermented product had a high GABA density | concentration, and also

the component which was not contained in the conventional brown sugar was

contained. Furthermore, in these lactic acid fermentation, it discovered that the

polyphenol derived from sugarcane and antioxidant ability were hard to be

influenced.

The present invention is based on the above findings, and provides

fermented sugarcane obtained by inoculating a sugarcane juice with lactic acid

bacteria and subjecting it to lactic acid fermentation. In addition, the present

invention provides a brown sugar-like food obtained by inoculating lactic acid

bacteria into a sugarcane juice and subjecting it to lactic acid fermentation to obtain

fermented sugarcane, and then concentrating and solidifying the fermented

product. Furthermore, this invention provides the manufacturing method of the

sugarcane fermented product characterized by inoculating lactic acid bacteria in

sugarcane juice, and carrying out lactic acid fermentation. Furthermore, the

present invention provides a method for producing a brown sugar-like food

characterized by inoculating a sugarcane juice with lactic acid bacteria and

subjecting it to lactic acid fermentation to obtain a fermented sugarcane, and then

concentrating and solidifying the fermented product.

The sugarcane fermented product of the present invention has a higher

GABA concentration than the conventional sugarcane juice used as a raw material

for brown sugar, and further contains useful components such as lactic acid
 31

produced by lactic acid bacteria. Furthermore, in the sugarcane juice, Since

glucose and fructose are assimilated, the ratio of sucrose in the total sugar content

is high. Therefore, the sugarcane fermented product can be suitably used as a

functional carbohydrate material.

The brown sugar-like food produced using the fermented sugar cane has a

high GABA concentration and a high ratio of sucrose in the total sugar content,

and further contains useful components such as lactic acid produced by lactic acid

bacteria. It has a lighter color tone and smooth mouthfeel than conventional brown

sugar.

The sugarcane fermented product of the present invention is obtained by

inoculating a sugarcane juice with lactic acid bacteria and subjecting it to lactic

acid fermentation. The sugarcane used as the raw material for the fermented

product is a plant belonging to the genus Sugaraceae (scientific name: Sacharum

officinarum). In the present invention, any type of sugarcane can be used without

particular limitation. The sugarcane juice is obtained by squeezing the whole stem

or inner solid part of sugarcane. Although it does not restrict limit especially as a

means of squeezing, For example, a mill, a screw press, a cane separation, etc.

are mentioned. The squeezed liquid obtained by the squeezing means may be one

obtained by removing heat-insoluble components by heat sterilization treatment or

centrifugation, and may be one obtained by concentrating the squeezed liquid by

a conventional method. In the present invention, the sucrose concentration of the

sugarcane juice is about 10 to 20% by mass, particularly about 15% by mass.

Although it does not specifically limit as lactic acid bacteria inoculated in the said
 32

sugarcane juice, For example, lactic acid bacteria, such as Lactobacillus genus

and Lactococcus genus, can be used. Among these lactic acid bacteria, lactic acid

bacteria that assimilate glutamic acid and produce GABA without degrading GABA

in sugarcane juice (hereinafter referred to as “GABA-producing lactic acid

bacteria”) are preferable. As such lactic acid bacteria, for example, Lactococcus

lactis subsp. Lactis, Lactobacillus brevis and the like are preferable. Among these

GABA-producing lactic acid bacteria, Lactococcus brevis is particularly preferable

because it produces a large amount of GABA. These lactic acid bacteria are all

available from the Biological Resource Center, the Japan Dairy Technology

Association, and others.

In producing the fermented sugar cane of the present invention, first, the

lactic acid bacterium is used as a starter by a conventional method, and this is

inoculated with 1 to 20% by mass, preferably about 10% by mass with respect to

the sugar cane juice. Next, this is subjected to lactic acid fermentation at about 25

° C. to 37 ° C., preferably about 30 ° C., for about 24 to 48 hours, preferably about

24 hours, to about pH 3.7 to 4.3, preferably about pH 4.0.

The fermented sugarcane obtained in this way has a higher GABA

concentration than the sugarcane juice and contains useful components such as

lactic acid produced by lactic acid bacteria. Moreover, since glucose and fructose

in sugarcane juice are assimilated by lactic acid bacteria, the ratio of sucrose in

the total sugar content of the sugarcane fermentation product is high. This can be

used as it is, or after removing insoluble components, concentrating, etc. to obtain

a functional carbohydrate material, which can be added to various foods and

 33

drinks. Moreover, the said sugarcane fermented material can be made into a

brown sugar-like food by concentrating and solidifying according to the method of

manufacturing brown sugar from the well-known sugarcane juice. For the

concentration, heating concentration, vacuum concentration or the like can be

used, and solidification is performed by cooling the concentrate.

An example of producing brown sugar-like food from fermented sugar cane

is as follows. First, the fermented sugarcane is heated to about 50 ° C. and

adjusted to pH 6.8 to 7.2 using calcium hydroxide or the like. Next, insoluble

components are removed by centrifugation, and the mixture is heated under

normal pressure. Boiled while removing insoluble components, and when the

temperature reaches 120 ° C., the heating is stopped, and the mixture is stirred

while solidifying rapidly by air cooling to obtain a brown sugar-like food.

The brown sugar-like food of the present invention thus obtained contains

15 mg or more, preferably about 15 to 20 mg of GABA per 100 g. Further, the

brown sugar-like food of the present invention is rich in lactic acid and acetic acid

produced by fermentation of sugarcane juice with lactic acid bacteria, and other

components not contained in conventional brown sugar at all. Furthermore, this

brown sugar-like food has a high ratio of sucrose in the total sugar content.

Furthermore, this brown sugar-like food has a lighter color tone and smooth

mouthfeel than conventional brown sugar. Moreover, this brown sugar-like food

may be eaten as it is as brown sugar, or may be added to various foods and drinks

by pulverization or liquefaction by a known method (Ohara, et al., 2004).

 34

The present invention relates to a manufacturing technique of fermentative

enzymes having weaker sweet taste but deeper taste and flavor than general

refined cured sugar muscovado obtained from unrefined sugar cane comprising

plentiful minerals. The manufacturing technique of fermentative enzymes

vegetables and muscovado comprises the steps of washing and drying

vegetables, mixing with muscovado; fermenting and aging the same. The

manufacturing technique of fermentative enzymes helps people who aversion to

sugar and people who have negative opinions on enzymes take safe and delicious

enzymes manufactured by novels materials and technique (Naoto and Takira,

2009).

Lysine is one of the essential amino acids needed for balanced nutrition and

growth of human beings and of other mammals. It can be produced from

sugarcane muscovado syrup using the bacterium Corynebacterium glutamicum.

Muscovado is unrefined or raw sugar produced by open-air evaporation of

sugarcane juice and removal by drainage of the thick dark to light brown sugar

syrup called molasses. In this study, the authors investigated the effects of pH or

acidity, agitation or stirring rate, aeration rate, nutrient supplement and sugar

concentration on lysine production. Potassium (K) and magnesium (Mg), peptone

and yeast extract were added to the growing medium of the bacteria as nutrient

supplements. Higher yields of lysine (22.5 to 25.9 grams per litter) were obtained

at pH 7, an aeration rate of 1.0 volume per minute, an agitation rate of 25

revolutions per minute, and sugar concentration of 60 grams per liter (based on

pure muscovado syrup). Results showed that sugarcane muscovado syrup is a

 35

suitable material or substrate for fermentation even without additional nutrient

(Abrigo, et al., 2001).

The concentrations of phosphorus and potassium are way too high either

limit the absorption of essential trace elements such as for example iron,

manganese and zinc, or disturbs the absorption of essential cat ions such as for

instance magnesium or calcium caused the nutrient imbalance which results

decreased crop growth as well as withered of plants. When trees aren’t on its

appropriate nutrient environment, it decreased their very own growth or shown

brown leaves that was the strain a reaction to lacked of or excessive nutrients. A

defined nutrient furnished by the heavy fertilization, toxicity and scarcity of one

other nutrients observed. The research found out that appropriate fertilization

required an equal quantity of concentration applied in to cut back damage (Bennett

1993; Benton 1998).

The organic matter content 30% in organic manure thought to boost the

content of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and main cat ions into the soil. The

organic case of manure allows plants to make use of the nutrients for quite some

time, because of its slow decomposition, and reduces the increased loss of

employed by the plants. Major cat ions, including potassium, and nitrogen and

phosphorus were increased by organic manure treatment for their high content in

organic manure (Bhandari et al. 2002).

Prior to applied livestock by-product-derived organic manure, the various

nutrient compositions of this organic manures because of the kinds of livestock by-

products, the soil properties regarding the application lands, the nutrient
 36

requirements regarding the target tree species, and environmental and sanitary

conditions in surrounding areas should always be taken into account. Soil nutrient

management was necessary for sustainable.

 Chapter 3

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

This chapter is devoted to the methodology employed in this research study.

Specifically, the proposed method, the description of experiment and description

of subject are explained in this chapter.

3.1 Proposed Method

The study is true experimental in nature and adheres to scientific research

design. An experimental method is one of the founding quantitative research

methods that deals with the object or subject of the research in an exact manner

and determines the extent of the effects or influence of the treatment on the

subject, then discovers the causes of such effects. The researchers followed the

Fermentation Method during the experimentation. This study was conducted with

a specific scientific approach, where a set of variables are kept constant while the

other set of variables are being measured as the independent variables of the

experiment. The researchers prepared different concentrations of the independent

variables to see if a concentration of the independent variable has to do with the

constant dependent variable. The independent variables are the fermented bile

and muscovado while the variable that bears the effects is the acidic soil.
 38

3.2 Description of Experiment

This portion provides a point by point description on the experimental

systems and procedures used in acquiring and processing the data throughout the

experiment. Generally, this section is divided into four stages: Soil Analysis, Bile

and muscovado fermentation, Application and Soil (with applied fermented

muscovado and bile) Analysis.

3.2.1Sampling Site

The soils were taken from Campo 2, Talisay City, Cebu during the month of

November. The Researchers chose to get the soils from the said locale as per

advised by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The Domestic

Pig’s Biles were taken from one slaughter house during the months of August,

September, October and November at Don Andres Soriano, Village 1, Toledo City,

Cebu.

3.2.2 Research Samples

The research utilizes biles of domestic pigs due to its abundant distribution

and availability. Commercialized fertilizers were used as the positive control. Three

concentrations of Fermented Muscovado and Bile (FMB) were used, namely: 5%,

10% and 15%. The distilled water serves as the negative control as it doesn’t yield

a positive result.
 39

3.2.3 Data Collecting Techniques

In this study, an experiment was conducted whereby the researchers have

a different concentration on the Fermented Muscovado and Bile (FMB). Also, to

evaluate the results to find out the significance of fermented bile and muscovado

on acidic loam soil. The process of collecting data through experimentation

involves soil analysis, bile and muscovado fermentation and application.

3.2.4 Data Processing Procedure

Soil Analysis

The soil sample that the researchers get from Campo 2, Talisay City Cebu

was analyzed by the Department of Agriculture as the researchers inquire to their

service.

Bile and Muscovado Fermentation

Between the months of August to November, the researchers gathered biles

from a slaughter house at Don Andres Soriano, Village 1, Toledo City, Cebu.

These biles were fermented together with 400 grams of muscovado in an earthen

jar sealed with layers of papers and plastic good for the air not to enter and spoil

the fermentation process. The process took a month-long fermentation, the liquid

was filtered and the solid remains were put into trash. The liquid was taken and

poured into another container.

 40

Application

The fermented Muscovado and Bile (FMB) was applied to 4 pots containing

1kg of soil sample, with different concentrations and a liter of water. The FMB is

mixed with 1 liter of water with varied concentration namely: 0%, 5%,10% and

15%, and then applied to corresponding pots with soil. Each pot is planted with

mung bean and the growth of mung bean was observed for two weeks.

Soil (with applied FMB) Analysis

After 14 days of applying FMB to the pots twice a day, the fertilized soils

from the four pots were analyzed by the service of the Department of Agriculture.

3.3 Description of Subjects

The study focuses on the utilization of Domestic Pig’s Bile and its effects on

acidic loam soil. Biles of domestic pigs are basic in nature, thereby, making it as

an effective acidic loam soil neutralizer. Hence the experimental group was the

Fermented Muscovado and Bile with partial replacement of FMB at values 0, 5, 10

and 15 percent.

The control groups will be divided into two: the positive control and negative

control. The positive control of the study will be the commercialized fertilizer. On

the other hand, the negative control will be distilled water since it is expected to

have a null result.

 41

Statistical Technique

The study used Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to determine which

concentration of bile and muscovado could neutralized acidic loam soil. The

Statistical Data were tabulated through the means of software app. The data that

have been gathered were analyze statistically to determine the significance and

which concentration affects the acidity through one-way analysis (ANOVA) at p ≤

0.55 level of significance. The following formula were used:

𝑴𝑺𝑻
𝑭=
𝑴𝑺𝑬

Where:

F = ANOVA Coefficient

MST = Mean sum of squares due to treatment

MSE = Mean sum of squares due to error

𝑺𝑺𝑬
𝑴𝑺𝑬 =
𝑵−𝒑

Where:

SSE = Sum of squares due to error

S = Standard deviation of the samples

N = Total number of observations

42