ORIGINAL RESEARCH
Co-Composting of Algae and Effect of the Compost
on Germination and Growth
of Lepidium sativum
Izabela Michalak, Łukasz Tuhy, Katarzyna Chojnacka
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Department of Advanced Material Technologies, Faculty of Chemistry,
Wrocław University of Technology, Smoluchowskiego 25, 50-372 Wrocław, Poland
Submission date: 2015-12-15
Final revision date: 2016-02-15
Acceptance date: 2016-02-15
Publication date: 2016-05-25
Pol. J. Environ. Stud. 2016;25(3):1107-1115
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ABSTRACT
In order to obtain a value-added product from the removal and processing of waste algal biomass,
it is essential to elaborate on cost-effective methods of their utilization. Composting appears to be one
of the methods of obtaining a natural fertilizer. This paper demonstrates the results of a study where the
biomass of seaweed (Fucus sp.) has been co-composted with ecological hay, grass, sawdust, and spent
mushroom substrate for three months. The utilitarian properties of the new natural products (compost and
compost extract) were examined in germination tests on Lepidium sativum. Three groups were compared:
the control group treated with distilled water, and two experimental groups: one treated with seaweed extract
and the other fertilized with algal compost. Results showed that the addition of compost and compost extract
contributed to the increase in plant length and mass. Moreover, the biomass fertilized with new products
was rich in micro- and macroelements (in particular B, Fe, Cu, Zn, Ca, K, S). Utilization of algal biomass
for agricultural and horticultural purposes could be benefi cial for environmental protection in that it might
help remove waste biomass from coastal areas and from the point of view of the economy by resulting in the
production of value-added natural fertilizers and biostimulants (extracts). The latter could help reduce the
use of chemical fertilizers and could help to improve physicochemical properties of the soil, thus producing
an enhanced seed yield.