LIKHA - PROJECT PROPOSAL

(1) PROJECT PROFILE

Project Title: Assessing the Agronomic Potential of Arachis hypogaea (Peanut) Shells
and Solanum tuberosum (Potato) Peelings as Sustainable Soil Enhancers
Name: Vhenice Ghale N. Cabili
Nhayne Flordeliz S. Casas
Megan Andrea D. Sebua
Region: X Division: Iligan City
School: Iligan City National High School Grade Level: 10
Project Duration (Number of Months): 2
Email: vheniceghalecabili@gmail.com Contact Number: 09361847293

(2) CATEGORY OF RESEARCH (4) THEME

_____ Physical Science _____ Food Safety
_____ Life Science _____ Water Conservation
_____ Robotics and Intelligent _____ Renewable Energy
Machines _____ Cyber Security
_____ Mathematics and _____ Traffic/Road Congestion
Computational Sciences _____ Health
_____ Disaster Mitigation
(3) _____ Agriculture and
Environment
_____ Individual _____ Others (please specify)
_____ Team ___________________

(5) EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The study is to determine the efficacy of Arachis hypogaea (Peanut) Shells and
Potato peelings as a soil enhancer. Peanut shells, as well as Potato peelings have
potentially advantageous effects in that they nurture and support the soil, resulting in
vigorous development, making the plant grow quickly. Because of its soil-beneficial
properties, both the Peanut Shells and Potato Peelings contain several components.

(6) INTRODUCTION
(6.1) RATIONALE/SIGNIFICANCE

This study explores the potential benefits and significance of using peanut
shells and Potato peelings as a soil enhancer. One of the reasons for conducting this
study is to increase the importance of sustainable agriculture practices. Our study
includes the testing of peanut shells and potato peelings as a soil enhancer which can
be an alternative to synthetic fertilizers that have negative results in the soil.
 Peanut shells and Potato peelings are often considered a waste in the
environment. However, finding valuable uses or ways can reduce waste and
contribute to a circular economy. As we researched, we have studied that peanut
shells, and as well as Potato peelings have essential nutrients such as carbon, nitrogen,
potassium and phosphorus which can improve soil fertility. These soil enhancers can
improve soil structure and water retention in which there is also a possibility that it
can help plants access more nutrients and water. It is studied that some soil enhancers
including peanut shells are shown to suppress soil-borne diseases and pests, while
potato peelings also have antibacterial and antifungal components which can both
help control pests and the crops to be healthier. Containing organic materials in soil
can also reduce carbon which contributes in mitigating climate change.

If this study is proven to be an effective soil enhancer, then it could lead to

cost savings for farmers by reducing the need of expensive synthetic fertilizers. In
addition, it is to investigate if using peanut shells and potato peelings as a soil
enhancer has any impact on the crops produced such as its taste or nutrition content.

(6.2) SCIENTIFIC BASIS

A plant's growth is dependent on the availability of vital nutrients from the soil
using these to support its growth, life cycle, and biological functions. Nitrogen (N),
phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) are the three primary macronutrients known as
NPK, essential for plant growth and a good overall state of the plant. Among the
several benefits, N is known for accelerating plant growth as well as fruit production,
whilst bettering leaf quality. P is a major component to photosynthesis and supports
root growth while K improves the quality of fruits, protein building, and disease
reduction.

Additionally, evidence from studies supports the idea of organic materials,

such as the potential of Arachis hypogaea (Peanut) shells combined with Potato
peelings as an organic amendment for potting mix, with several benefits to plant
growths like increasing nutrient levels such as carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium
structure and reduces soil salinity. Having the potential to be a more sustainable soil
enhancement to the environment.

By thoroughly analyzing their influence on soil parameters, this study aims to

provide important insights into the effectiveness of Arachis hypogaea (Peanut) shells
with Potato peelings in boosting soil fertility, improving soil chemical properties, and
reducing soil salinity.

(6.3) OBJECTIVES
General:
The primary objective of this study is to determine whether enriching the soil with
peanut shells and potato peelings could result in plants growing quickly enough.

Specific:
The specific objectives of this investigation are to identify the particular chemical
characteristics of Solanum Tuberosum (potato peelings) and Arachis hypogaea
(peanut shells) that make it possible for them to nourish soil and support rapid
plant growth.

(7) REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Organic waste breakdown is the most common source of pollution in the

environment. When bacteria and other biological forms use compounds as a source of
food, they decompose, according to Filbert, & Richer, 1987. Organic waste is also
known as biodegradable waste. Produced mainly from living organisms, either plant
or animal. Examples include food waste, human waste, sewage, paper waste, manure,
green waste, biodegradable plastic, and slaughterhouse waste.

When poor organic waste management happens, it contributes to climate

change and air pollution. It is not only a social or humanitarian issue; it is also an
environmental one affecting many ecosystems and species. We squander all of the
energy and water required to cultivate, harvest, transport and package organic food,
when we waste it. Also resulting to landfills, producing methane, and a potent
greenhouse linked to climate change.

Soil salinization is a major contributor to land degradation and a decrease in

plant growth and productivity in semi-arid regions. The low levels of soil organic
matter and decrease in stability of soil structure, i.e., the tendency to slake, disperse,
and swell under specific conditions that induce nutrient imbalances, cause the
negative effects of salinization that contain sufficient soluble salts to inhibit plant
growth and ion toxicity.

To reduce such problem, It is suggested to utilize organic wastes which are

currently only regarded as wastes or ‘leftovers’ to be only abandoned in the
environment into something that could drastically decrease pollution and produce
new, environmentally, beneficial products.

Arachis hypogaea, commonly known as the peanut is a widely cultivated

legume and one of the most popular and versatile crops globally. Peanut shells refer to
the outer covering or husk of the peanut. A significant amount of peanut shells is
generated as a byproduct. These shells are often considered agricultural waste and can
be repurposed or disposed of in various ways. Peanut shells are traditionally used as
organic matter by farmers to restore their paddy fields affected by salinity. The
addition of peanut shells as organic amendment increases nutrient levels such as
carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and calcium structure and reduces soil salinity
according to Mojiri et al., 2011. stated that soil microorganisms, such as nitrogen-
fixing bacteria (rhizobia) and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, form triple associations
capable of providing N and P to plants, especially in low soils.

Potatoes are one of the most widely consumed and versatile root vegetables
globally. It is a common vegetable that is always available in the kitchen. Potatoes are
rich in carbohydrates, particularly starch, and are a good source of dietary fiber,
vitamins (especially vitamin C and B-vitamins), and minerals (such as potassium).
Potato skins are significant for growth of plants. The peels are rich in nutrients such as
potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and many other vitamins. All these nutrients
increase the growth of the plants. The composts can even be given to any plant during
any season according to Anagha M., 2022.

(8) METHODOLOGY

Collecting of wastes (Peanut

shells and Potato peelings)

Weighing of amount

Air-drying of Peanut shells

and Potato peelings

Weighing of amount

Powderization of Peanut
shells and Potato peelings

Weighing of amount

Mixing in different set-ups

Soil Analysis Test

 Figure 1. Process Flow Chart

Independent Processes Test Dependent

Variables Variable

Arachis hypogaea 1. Collecting,

(Peanut) Shells 2. Weighing,
and Solanum 3. Airdrying, Soil Analysis Test Soil Enhancer
tuberosum 4. Crushing/
(Potato) Peelings Powderization,
5. Mixing

Figure 2. Conceptual Framework

Firstly, the researchers must wear face masks, rubber gloves, and lab gowns to
avoid any physical harm and ensure the safety. Gather all the materials needed for the
process of making the organic amendment product. The materials needed are trays,
basins, tapper wares, gardening gloves, a mortar and pestle, mosquito net, weighing
scale, and blender. Start by collecting a significant amount of leftover peanut shells
and potato peelings by a weighing scale. Wash them properly to make sure they are
clean and free of any contaminants or foreign materials, then pat them dry with a
clean towel.

After gathering all the wastes needed, these will then undergo an air-drying
process that is good for 5 to 7 days straight. Set up a drying area by hanging two
separate mosquito nets. Choose a shaded location to avoid direct sunlight exposure,
this will preserve the nutrients in the waste materials needed to produce a nutrient-rich
soil enhancer. Ensure the area has good airflow to facilitate the drying process
effectively. Evenly spread out the potato peelings on one mosquito net and the peanut
shells on the other. Fans are also used over the wastes to speed up the drying process.
Periodically check and turn the peelings and shells to ensure even drying.
Continuously monitor, until it becomes crisp and brittle. Once fully dried, weigh the
amount of wastes reduced after the air-drying. Then, transfer the potato peelings and
peanut shells into separate airtight containers to maintain crispness and prevent
moisture.

Next, the powderization of the air-dried wastes. To avoid any physical risks,
gardening gloves are required throughout this procedure. To achieve a finer texture,
the wastes are crushed separately in two different basins. The air-dried peanut shells
are pulverized by using hands, then crushing it further by using mortar and pestle.
Moreover, air-dried potato peelings are pulverized using mortar and pestle.

*TO BE CONTINUED*

In this procedure, it starts with collecting the wastes from respective homes, which
are the Arachis hypogaea (Peanut) shells and Solanum tuberosum (Potato) peelings,
which are gathered and must be in a significant amount. After gathering all the
wastes needed, these must be weighed and will undergo an air-drying process that is
good for 5 to 7 days straight. Thus, they will transform into being crisp and ready to
be crushed after they are air-dried. Therefore these must be weighed again to check if
it still gets the same amount. The air-dried Peanut shells and Potato peelings will now
undergo another process, which is powderization. After the powderization process,
the experimental set-ups will be followed during the mixing of these Potato peelings
and Peanut shells, with their specific or assigned amount each set-up. Lastly, the
different set-ups will be then prepared for a Soil Analysis Test, in order to know the
chemical components present of these soil enhancers, and mainly to Potato peelings
and Peanut shells.

Next is the powderization of potato peelings. Place and spread the potato peelings
on a drying surface where it will receive ample sunlight throughout the day and allow
it to sun-dry. The drying process may take a few hours depending on the temperature
and humidity in the area. Turn and monitor the peelings to ensure even drying. It
should be crisp and brittle. After that, transfer the dried peelings into a mortar and
pestle and crush until you achieve a fine powder texture. Transfer the powdered
potato peelings to a storage bag. Store it in a cool, dry place.

In the mixing bucket, combine the two powders and equip the gardening gloves to
use your hands and mix the powders consistently and evenly.

Upon testing the effectiveness of the mixed organic amendment, the researchers
will be using and monitoring two potted plants. One plant given the treatment of the
mixed powder and the other plant having no treatment. After applying the mixture,
water both of the plants thoroughly and monitor, as well as measure the plants over
time. Observing any soil structure, increased water retention, and possibly enhanced
plant growth as the organic matter decomposes and enriches the soil.

(9) EXPECTED OUTPUTS AND POTENTIAL IMPACTS

The study is expected to encompass a range of physical and nonphysical results

that can contribute to scientific knowledge, agriculture, and environmental
 sustainability. It is expected to serve a valuable plan for researchers, farmers and
other stakeholders that are interested in the agricultural environment. It has the impact
to be adopted by agricultural practices and policies.

This could produce data on the result of the peanut shells and potato peelings on
soil quality and crop yields which can be used as a comparison with the other soil
enhancers. The data can also be used to clear agricultural practices and optimize the
use of peanut shells which can contribute information to the future research
endeavours.

The study may cooperate to research agricultural researchers and farmers to really
explore the implementation of the peanut shells and potato peelings as soil enhancer
and can be a good guideline and recommendations for farmers on how to effectively
use the peanut shells and potato peelings as soil enhancer to potentially improve crop
yields and reduce environmental impacts.

(10) WORK PLAN AND TARGET DELIVERABLES

Table 1. Work Plan
Month Date Planned Activity Person Involved

January 16 & 17 Buying and The researchers

preparing of the
materials

February 16, 17 & 18 Start of the The researchers &

experimentation adult sponsor

February 24, 25 Finalization of the The researchers

product

(11) REFERENCES

Fall, D., Bakhoum, N., Fall, F. et al. Effect of peanut shells amendment on soil
properties and growth of seedlings of Senegalia senegal (L.) Britton, Vachellia seyal
(Delile) P. Hurter, and Prosopis juliflora (Swartz) DC in salt-affected soils. Annals of
Forest Science 75, 32 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13595-018-0714-x

Bai, S., Wang, T., Tian, Z. et al. Facile preparation of porous biomass charcoal from
peanut shell as adsorbent. Sci Rep 10, 15845 (2020).
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-72721-0
Shrivastava, Pooja, and Rajesh Kumar. Soil salinity: A serious environmental issue
and plant growth promoting bacteria as one of the tools for its alleviation, 22, 2
(2015): 123-131. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2014.12.001

Abd Elrahman, Shaimaa H., et al. "Effect of different amendments on soil chemical
characteristics, grain yield and elemental content of wheat plants grown on salt-
affected soil irrigated with low quality water." Annals of Agricultural Sciences 57.2
(2012): 175-182.

Abari, Akram Kiani, et al. "Salt effects on seed germination and seedling emergence
of two Acacia species." African Journal of Plant Science 5.1 (2011): 52-56.

Roeswitawati, D., Arman, M., & Sukorini, H. (2021). Utilization of peanut shell
waste and bio-slurry as organic fertilizer for sweet corn (Zea mays L. Saccharata).
IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 759, 012047.
https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/759/1/012047