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21 pages, 5518 KiB  
Article
Soil Amendments and Slow-Release Urea Improved Growth, Physiological Characteristics, and Yield of Salt-Tolerant Rice Under Salt Stress Conditions
by Rongyi Li, Xiayu Guo, Yucheng Qi, Yuyuan Wang, Jianbo Wang, Pengfei Zhang, Shenghai Cheng, Wenli He, Tingcheng Zhao, Yusheng Li, Lin Li, Junchao Ji, Aibin He and Zhiyong Ai
Plants 2025, 14(4), 543; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14040543 - 10 Feb 2025
Viewed by 415
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the effects of different soil amendments coupled with nitrogen fertilizer on the morpho-physiological characteristics and yield of salt-tolerant rice under saline conditions. The soil amendments, i.e., S1: zeolite amendment, S2: coconut coir amendment, S3: humic acid amendment, [...] Read more.
The present study aimed to investigate the effects of different soil amendments coupled with nitrogen fertilizer on the morpho-physiological characteristics and yield of salt-tolerant rice under saline conditions. The soil amendments, i.e., S1: zeolite amendment, S2: coconut coir amendment, S3: humic acid amendment, and S0: no amendment, and fertilizer treatments, i.e., N1: urea, N2: slow-release urea, and N0: no N fertilizer, were kept in main plots and sub-plots, respectively, in a split-plot design. The salt-tolerant variety ‘Shuangliangyou 138’ was exposed to 0.3% salt irrigation water. The results showed that during the entire growth period, compared to S0, the S1 and S3 treatments increased the SPAD values by an average of 6.3%and 5.5%, respectively, the leaf area index by an average of 24.5% and 19.8%, the canopy interception rate by an average of 11.5% and 4.1%, and the aboveground biomass by an average of 36.8% and 13.9%, respectively. Moreover, under S1 and S3 conditions, the tiller number per square meter, leaf water potential, leaf water content, and chlorophyll contents were also improved under the slow-release urea than urea. Moreover, slow-release urea promoted root vitality and nutrient absorption as well as enhanced the activity of antioxidant and nitrogen metabolism enzymes than urea under the S1 and S3 conditions. In sum, the rational application of soil amendments and slow-release urea could improve the rice productivity on saline-alkali land. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fertilizer and Abiotic Stress)
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20 pages, 4958 KiB  
Article
In Vitro Production of Plantlets and Microrhizomes, Genetic Fidelity Assessment, and Metabolic Profiling of Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf.
by Kankamon Thepthong and Supanath Kanjanawattanawong
Horticulturae 2025, 11(2), 186; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11020186 - 8 Feb 2025
Viewed by 589
Abstract
Fingerroot (Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf.) is valued for its therapeutic benefits, both in Thailand and internationally. This study optimized in vitro propagation and induced microrhizomes (MRZ) to produce cleaned plantlets to support organic farming using disease-free plantlets, which is crucial for preventing [...] Read more.
Fingerroot (Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf.) is valued for its therapeutic benefits, both in Thailand and internationally. This study optimized in vitro propagation and induced microrhizomes (MRZ) to produce cleaned plantlets to support organic farming using disease-free plantlets, which is crucial for preventing and eradicating diseased plantlets, reducing the use of chemicals, and alternative approaches to enhancing phytochemical diversity. Shoots cultured on ½-strength MS medium with 1 mg L−1 of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) showed the highest shoot formation (69%) and shoot multiplication (3.45 ± 0.29 shoots per explant). Plantlets acclimatized in peat moss or a peat moss–coconut coir (1:1) mixture achieved a 100% survival rate. Genetic fidelity was confirmed using SSR markers, showing genetic consistency with the mother plant. The MRZ formation was the highest (98.33%) under white LED light with 30 g L−1 of sucrose. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis in MRZ revealed aspartate, a precursor to pinocembrin and pinostrobin. Additionally, nine unique metabolites not previously identified in fingerroot were detected in the MRZ, suggesting some potential in novel therapeutic applications. These findings support the development of efficient micropropagation methods and highlight MRZ as a source of diverse bioactive compounds, contributing to the medicinal value of B. rotunda in sustainable and large-scale production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tissue Culture and Micropropagation Techniques of Horticultural Crops)
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11 pages, 4780 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Development and Performance Analysis of Coconut Coir Waste-Based Recycle Papers for Cooling Pad Applications
by Agus Dwi Anggono, Agung Setyo Darmawan and Agus Yulianto
Eng. Proc. 2025, 84(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025084018 - 28 Jan 2025
Viewed by 596
Abstract
Paper is an essential material in daily life, yet its widespread use contributes significantly to waste, which poses environmental hazards. In Indonesia, paper waste is one of the most substantial types of solid waste. Recycling waste paper into new, usable products offers both [...] Read more.
Paper is an essential material in daily life, yet its widespread use contributes significantly to waste, which poses environmental hazards. In Indonesia, paper waste is one of the most substantial types of solid waste. Recycling waste paper into new, usable products offers both environmental and economic benefits. This study investigates the tensile strength, tearing strength, and microstructure of recycled paper produced using 70 g HVS waste paper, coconut husk fibers, NaOH as a chemical treatment, and tapioca powder as an adhesive. NaOH concentrations were varied at 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8% to assess their effects on the mechanical properties of the recycled paper. Results from tensile strength tests indicated that the highest tensile strength, 2.2774 MPa, was achieved with a 6% NaOH concentration, while the lowest tensile strength, 1.1065 MPa, was observed at a 4% NaOH concentration. Tearing strength tests showed that the highest tearing strength of 2.6145 MPa was obtained with a 4% NaOH concentration, whereas the lowest tearing strength of 1.8481 MPa was observed at an 8% NaOH concentration. Microstructural analysis of the fracture and tear zones revealed non-uniform fiber pullout, highlighting the influence of NaOH concentration on fiber bonding. These findings provide insights into optimizing NaOH concentration for improved mechanical properties in recycled paper products. Full article
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19 pages, 2320 KiB  
Article
Organic Fertilization Leads to N Limitation Rather than P Limitation in Both Vegetable Soils
by Qingshan Li, Mengqian Xu, Lingying Xu, Xingwang Wu, Yuqin Zhang, Jia Xin, Yazhen Shen and Jichao Gao
Agronomy 2025, 15(1), 190; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15010190 - 15 Jan 2025
Viewed by 491
Abstract
Organic amendments are widely used to enhance soil fertility and nutrient cycling in greenhouse cultivation, but their effectiveness can vary depending on their origin and composition. This study investigated the impact of four organic materials (rice husk, coconut coir, biochar, and sheep manure) [...] Read more.
Organic amendments are widely used to enhance soil fertility and nutrient cycling in greenhouse cultivation, but their effectiveness can vary depending on their origin and composition. This study investigated the impact of four organic materials (rice husk, coconut coir, biochar, and sheep manure) on nutrient cycling and enzyme activities in two of greenhouse tomato soils. The distribution of soil nutrients and enzyme activities was analyzed under controlled conditions during a pot experiment. The addition of organic amendments, regardless of their source, significantly altered the microbial resource allocation, reducing the carbon limitation while increasing the nitrogen demand. The effect on soil nutrient pools was largely determined by the chemical composition of the amendments. In clayey soils, biochar and rice husk additions most effectively promoted enzyme activities related to carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus acquisition. Under sandy soil conditions, sheep manure increased carbon and phosphorus acquisition enzymes, while biochar most effectively enhanced nitrogen acquisition enzymes. Biochar emerged as a particularly effective amendment, enhancing organic carbon sequestration across different soil types. The chemical composition of the amendments, specifically, the content of carboxyl C, aromatic C, and O-alkyl C, played a crucial role in influencing soil nutrient limitations. In clayey soils, the mean C:N:P ratios for CK, T1, T2, T3, and T4 treatments were 1:1.375:0.625, 1:1.244:0.662, 1:0.839:0.610, 1:1.161:0.689, and 1:1.038:0.549, respectively. In sandy soils, the ratios were 1:1.117:0.698, 1:1.18:0.75, 1:1.096:0.731, 1:1.217:0.689, and 1:1.06:0.669, respectively. These findings suggest that the addition of organic amendments can improve nutrient retention and enzyme activities, but their effects on soil nutrient pools are influenced by both the composition of the amendments and the soil texture. This research enhances our understanding of organic amendments and soil nutrient transformations, and aids in optimizing the application of organic materials for improved soil management in greenhouse cultivation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil Evolution, Management, and Sustainable Utilization)
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24 pages, 6343 KiB  
Article
Remediating Severely Salt-Affected Soil with Vermicompost and Organic Amendments for Cultivating Salt-Tolerant Crops as a Functional Food Source
by Nattakit Petmuenwai, Pranee Srihaban, Takashi Kume, Tadao Yamamoto and Chuleemas Boonthai Iwai
Agronomy 2024, 14(8), 1745; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14081745 - 8 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2145
Abstract
Salt-affected soils are a prevalent issue globally, resulting in a severe degradation of soil sustainability and plant productivity, reducing the area of agricultural land, and affecting food security. Therefore, eco-solutions and remediation approaches are needed. The needed remediation for salt-affected soil can be [...] Read more.
Salt-affected soils are a prevalent issue globally, resulting in a severe degradation of soil sustainability and plant productivity, reducing the area of agricultural land, and affecting food security. Therefore, eco-solutions and remediation approaches are needed. The needed remediation for salt-affected soil can be addressed via engineering, physical, chemical, or biological techniques. Salt-tolerant crops are normally used for the remediation of slight and moderate saline soil conditions. However, no crops, including salt-tolerant crops, can be cultivated in areas with extreme salinity levels (ECe 8–16 dS/m). Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of vermicompost and organic amendment on the cultivation of salt-tolerant crops (Sesbania rostrata) in severely salt-affected soil under field conditions in order to improve saline soil and crop productivity. The design of the experiment followed a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three treatments and four replications: T1, severely salt-affected soil (control); T2, severely salt-affected soil + vermicompost at a ratio of 25:75; T3, severely salt-affected soil + vermicompost + rice husk biochar + coconut coir at a ratio of 25:25:25:25. The results found that using vermicompost and organic amendment improved the soil quality, increased the soil fertility (organic matter and plant nutrients N, P, and K), and reduced the soil salinity. Sesbania rostrate could not grow in severely salt-affected soil (T1) alone, but could grow in the treatments with vermicompost and organic amendments (T2 and T3). The percentage of Sesbania survival per plot was also high in the treatments with vermicompost and organic amendments (T2 and T3). The highest growth rate, flower production, biomass, and root morphology of Sesbania rostrata were found in T3, with severely salt-affected soil + vermicompost + rice husk biochar + coconut coir at a ratio of 25:25:25:25 with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). Moreover, the Sesbania flowers treated with vermicompost and organic amendments have a higher nutritional value due to their minerals and vitamins than Sesbania flowers grown without using vermicompost and organic amendments. This study’s findings suggest that incorporating vermicompost and organic amendments is a feasible and economical method for enhancing the quality of salt-affected soils in a sustainable manner. The results of this study demonstrate that utilizing vermicompost and organic amendments is a sustainable and economical strategy for enhancing the quality of salt-affected soils and improving yields in severely salt-affected areas, thereby increasing crop production and the nutritional value of the plants as well as helping to increase farmers’ income. Full article
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20 pages, 4206 KiB  
Article
Influence of Mineral Liquid Fertilization on the Plant Growth of Perennials on Sheep’s Wool–Coir–Vegetation Mats
by Susanne Herfort, Virginia Maß, Amelie Hüneburg and Heiner Grüneberg
Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 773; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080773 - 23 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1171
Abstract
Perennials are usually pre-cultivated on vegetation mats consisting of coconut fiber (coir), which require weather-dependent irrigation and regular fertilization with fast-acting fertilizer to achieve a saleable condition as quickly as possible. In the pre-cultivation of sheep’s wool–coir–vegetation mats, nitrogen (N) is already sufficiently [...] Read more.
Perennials are usually pre-cultivated on vegetation mats consisting of coconut fiber (coir), which require weather-dependent irrigation and regular fertilization with fast-acting fertilizer to achieve a saleable condition as quickly as possible. In the pre-cultivation of sheep’s wool–coir–vegetation mats, nitrogen (N) is already sufficiently contained in the vegetation mats due to the natural nitrogen content of the sheep’s wool fibers, so that additional liquid fertilization during pre-cultivation can be dispensed with if necessary. In this study, sheep’s wool–coir–vegetation mats of 4.5 kg/m2 were pre-cultivated with 16 perennial plants (8 species) in 2018. Variant 1 (V1) received regular fertilization with mineral liquid fertilizer (total 8.7 g N/m2) during pre-cultivation. Variant 2 (V2) was not fertilized during pre-cultivation. In spring 2019, all pre-cultivated vegetation mats were lifted and laid on an area prepared with topsoil. No additional fertilization was applied after laying. The overall impression, plant height, number of flowering perennials, and plant coverage were examined in the 2018 and 2019 growing seasons, with only minor differences observed between V1 and V2. The number of flowers, biomass, and nitrogen content were determined for the two aster species used. There were differences between V1 and V2 in 2018, but not in 2019. The coverage of perennials of 50%, which is the prerequisite for the saleability of the vegetation mats, was already achieved on both V1 and V2 after 4 months of pre-cultivation. The overall impression of the perennials on both V1 and V2 also did not differ during pre-cultivation nor in the following year. Therefore, liquid fertilization is not necessary during the pre-cultivation of perennials on sheep’s wool–coir–vegetation mats. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultivation and Breeding of Ornamental Plants)
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21 pages, 1528 KiB  
Article
Impact of Soil Organic Bioregeneration Amendments on Maize Biomass and Soil Physical Quality
by Tomasz Głąb, Krzysztof Gondek and Monika Mierzwa-Hersztek
Agriculture 2024, 14(7), 1020; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071020 - 27 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1177
Abstract
Combining inorganic and organic soil amendments with mineral fertilizers is promising for soil quality enhancement in modern agronomy systems. In this research, four main organic components were used in fertilizer formulations: coconut coir, biochar, lignite, and leonardite (enriched with microelements, tryptophan, and bacterial [...] Read more.
Combining inorganic and organic soil amendments with mineral fertilizers is promising for soil quality enhancement in modern agronomy systems. In this research, four main organic components were used in fertilizer formulations: coconut coir, biochar, lignite, and leonardite (enriched with microelements, tryptophan, and bacterial metabolic products). The treatments were assigned to the completely randomized design with a control object, without any soil amendments, and with only mineral fertilization. Aboveground biomass and root characteristics of maize (root length density, mean root diameter, root surface area density, specific root length, root volume density, and root dry matter) and water retention and characteristics of soil pores were determined. Compared to the control, all fertilizer formulations applied deteriorated the water retention properties of the soil. The highest plant available water content value was obtained for the control without any fertilizers. The addition of organic fertilizer formulations consisting of coconut coir, biochar, lignite, leonardite, microelements, tryptophan, and metabolic products of Pseudomonas sp. and Bacillus subtilis did not play a significant role in improving soil physical characteristics. The lowest productivity was characterized for maize without any fertilizers and amendments. All soil organic amendments resulted in lower yields than the one with only mineral fertilization. The highest root dry matter was obtained when lignite and leonardite were used as main components. Organic amendments can be recommended for soil bioregeneration, but their main effect on maize productivity is attributed to the mineral component. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Soils)
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17 pages, 8523 KiB  
Article
Innovative Eco-Friendly Concrete Utilizing Coconut Shell Fibers and Coir Pith Ash for Sustainable Development
by Sivasamy Satheesh Kumar, Ramasamy Murugesan, Muthusamy Sivaraja and Anand Athijayamani
Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5316; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135316 - 21 Jun 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3846
Abstract
Concrete is the most commonly used and essential material in the construction industry, and it is also the most widely utilized product globally. The construction industry is a rapidly expanding industry. To improve the efficiency and strength properties of concrete, researchers from all [...] Read more.
Concrete is the most commonly used and essential material in the construction industry, and it is also the most widely utilized product globally. The construction industry is a rapidly expanding industry. To improve the efficiency and strength properties of concrete, researchers from all over the world continue to search for supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) and industrial by-products that can be incorporated as alternative materials. The current study aimed to determine the effects of partially substituting coir pith ash (CPA) for cement in coconut shell concrete, in addition to utilizing steel and coconut fibers. Various percentages of CPA were used to replace cement in the concrete mixes, ranging from 5% to 20% by cement weight. Steel fibers were utilized in this study at volume ratios of 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1.0%, and coconut fibers were utilized at volume ratios of 0.1% to 0.5% with an increment of 0.1% in the concrete to achieve the desired results. Various properties have been examined, such as workability, mechanical, durability, and morphological tests. The addition of coir pith ash to concrete increased its compressive, flexural, and tensile strengths by 10.36%, 8.75%, and 7.7% at 28 days compared to control concrete. The incorporation of coconut fiber and coconut shell in concrete production improves its performance and strength while also preserving natural resources and offering a solution to the problem of disposing of solid waste. Full article
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17 pages, 1849 KiB  
Article
Effects of Nutrient Solution Application Rates on Yield, Quality, and Water–Fertilizer Use Efficiency on Greenhouse Tomatoes Using Grown-in Coir
by Shengxing Liu, Xiaoman Qiang, Hao Liu, Qisheng Han, Ping Yi, Huifeng Ning, Huanhuan Li, Chunting Wang and Xianbo Zhang
Plants 2024, 13(6), 893; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13060893 - 20 Mar 2024
Viewed by 2120
Abstract
The yield, quality, and water–fertilizer use efficiency of crops are important parameters for assessing rational water and fertilizer management. For an optimal water and fertilizer system with respect to the nutrient solution irrigation of greenhouse tomatoes using cultivation substrates, a two-year greenhouse cultivation [...] Read more.
The yield, quality, and water–fertilizer use efficiency of crops are important parameters for assessing rational water and fertilizer management. For an optimal water and fertilizer system with respect to the nutrient solution irrigation of greenhouse tomatoes using cultivation substrates, a two-year greenhouse cultivation experiment was conducted from 2022 to 2023. Three drip fertigation treatments (T1, T2, and T3) were implemented in the experiment, where nutrient solutions were supplied when the substrate’s water content reached 60%, 70%, and 80%. The frequency of nutrient solution applications is based on weighing coconut coir strips in the morning and evening at 7:00 to determine the daily water consumption of plants. Nutrient solutions were supplied when the substrate’s water content reached the lower limit, and the upper limit for nutrient supply was set at 100% of the substrate water content. The nutrient solution application was carried out multiple times throughout the day, avoiding the midday heat. The nutrient solution formula used was the soilless tomato cultivation formula from South China Agricultural University. The results show that plant height and the leaf area index rapidly increased in the early and middle stages, and later growth tended to stabilize; the daily transpiration of tomatoes increased with an increase in nutrient solution supply, and it was the greatest in the T3 treatment. Between the amount of nutrient solution application and the number of years, the yield increased with the increase of the amount of nutrient solution, showing T3 > T2 > T1. Although the average yield of the T2 treatment was slightly lower than that of the T3 treatment by 3.65%, the average irrigation water use efficiency, water use efficiency, and partial fertilizer productivity of the T2 treatment were significantly higher than those of the T3 treatment by 29.10%, 19.99%, and 28.89%, respectively (p < 0.05). Additionally, soluble solid, vitamin C, and soluble sugar contents and the sugar–acid ratio of tomatoes in the T2 treatment were greater than those in the other two treatments (p < 0.05). Using the TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution) method, it was concluded that the nutrient solution application rate of 70% can significantly increase water and fertilizer use efficiency and markedly improve the nutritional and flavor quality of the fruit without a significant reduction in yield. This finding provides significant guidance for the high-yield, high-quality, and efficient production of coconut coir-based cultivated tomatoes in greenhouses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crop Physiology and Crop Production)
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12 pages, 1338 KiB  
Article
Physical Properties and Crop Performance of Four Substrate Fibers in Greenhouse Petunia Production
by Maureen E. Thiessen, Jeb S. Fields and Damon E. Abdi
Horticulturae 2024, 10(3), 279; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10030279 - 15 Mar 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2014
Abstract
As peat (P) demand increases throughout the horticultural industry, alternative fibers must be evaluated. Sugarcane bagasse (B), wood fiber (W), and coconut coir (C) have received interest as domestically available alternatives to P, with demonstrated success in producing greenhouse crops. However, there is [...] Read more.
As peat (P) demand increases throughout the horticultural industry, alternative fibers must be evaluated. Sugarcane bagasse (B), wood fiber (W), and coconut coir (C) have received interest as domestically available alternatives to P, with demonstrated success in producing greenhouse crops. However, there is limited research comparing these materials to peat. This research evaluated the substrate properties and productivity of Petunia Supertunia Mini Vista ‘Indigo’ in pine bark substrates amended with C, W, B, or P and fertigated weekly at 100, 200, or 300 parts per million (ppm) nitrogen (N) to account for possible N immobilization. The container capacity was lowest and air-filled porosity was highest in W and B substrates. Substrate pH increased in W and B substrates, and C substrates were fertigated at 100 ppm N. Increasing the N rate increased the growth index in all substrates, especially B and W substrates later in the production period. Higher fertilization increased shoot mass, chlorophyll content, and blooms across all substrates, demonstrating that fertilizer supplementation may offset possible N immobilization. While plant growth and quality parameters were greatest in the P blend, increasing N applications produced similar-quality plants using alternative substrates, demonstrating that modifying fertilizer management practices can make alternative fibers a viable horticultural substrate. Full article
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13 pages, 1883 KiB  
Article
Trichoderma atroviride Enhances Impatiens walleriana Hook. f Growth and Flowering in Different Growing Media
by Silvia Traversari, Mariateresa Cardarelli, Massimo Brambilla, Maurizio Cutini, Gianluca Burchi, Marco Fedrizzi, Daniele Massa, Alessandro Orlandini and Sonia Cacini
Plants 2024, 13(5), 583; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13050583 - 21 Feb 2024
Viewed by 1494
Abstract
Trichoderma spp. are widely reported to regulate plant growth by improving nutrient uptake, photosynthesis, and abiotic stress tolerance. However, their possible application for bedding plants is little explored, especially when comparing different growing media. Considering that coconut coir dust is finding broader application [...] Read more.
Trichoderma spp. are widely reported to regulate plant growth by improving nutrient uptake, photosynthesis, and abiotic stress tolerance. However, their possible application for bedding plants is little explored, especially when comparing different growing media. Considering that coconut coir dust is finding broader application in the ornamental plants sector as a peat substitute, this work was aimed to test the combination of Trichoderma atroviride AT10 and coconut coir dust on Impatiens walleriana plants. Four treatments were tested as a mix of: (i) two growing media (70:30), peat:perlite or coconut coir dust:perlite; and (ii) the absence or presence of a T. atroviride treatment. At the end of the production cycle, the biomass and ornamental parameters, leaf pigments, nutrient content of the plant tissues, and Trichoderma abundance were assessed. The results revealed that T. atroviride can readily colonize coir, and the same positive effects of inoculum were found in plants grown on both substrates. The biostimulant effect of T. atroviride was observed as an increase in the aboveground biomass, number and weight of flowers, pigments and nutrient concentration, thereby improving the commercial quality of I. walleriana. Thus, T. atroviride has shown its potential in making bedding plant cultivation more sustainable and improving the yield and aesthetic parameters of plants grown on peat and coconut coir dust substrates. Full article
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16 pages, 1947 KiB  
Article
Effects of Nesting Material Provision and High-Dose Vitamin C Supplementation during the Peripartum Period on Prepartum Nest-Building Behavior, Farrowing Process, Oxidative Stress Status, Cortisol Levels, and Preovulatory Follicle Development in Hyperprolific Sows
by Hyeonwook Shin, Juho Lee, Junsik Kim, Geonil Lee and Jinhyeon Yun
Antioxidants 2024, 13(2), 210; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13020210 - 7 Feb 2024
Viewed by 1735
Abstract
Hyperprolific sows often experience increased oxidative stress during late gestation and lactation periods, which can adversely affect the farrowing process and overall lactation performance. This study examines the influence of providing a coconut coir mat (CCM; 1 × 1 m) as nesting material, [...] Read more.
Hyperprolific sows often experience increased oxidative stress during late gestation and lactation periods, which can adversely affect the farrowing process and overall lactation performance. This study examines the influence of providing a coconut coir mat (CCM; 1 × 1 m) as nesting material, supplementing high-dose vit-C (HVC; 20% vit-C, 10 g/kg feed) as an antioxidant, or both on maternal behavior, the farrowing process, oxidative status, cortisol levels, and preovulatory follicle developments in sows with large litters. In total, 35 sows (Landrace × Yorkshire; litter size 15.43 ± 0.27) were allocated to the following four treatment groups: control (n = 9, basal diet), vit-C (n = 8, basal diet + HVC), mat (n = 10, basal diet + CCM), and mat + vit-C (n = 8, basal diet + HVC + CCM). A post-hoc analysis showed that compared with sows that were not provided CCM, mat and mat + vit-C groups demonstrated increased durations of nest-building behavior during the period from 24 h to 12 h before parturition (p < 0.05 for both), reduced farrowing durations, and decreased intervals from birth to first udder contact (p < 0.01 for both). The mat group exhibited lower advanced oxidation protein product (AOPP) levels during late gestation and lactation periods than the control group (p < 0.05). Sows with HVC supplementation showed longer farrowing durations than those without HVC supplementation (p < 0.0001). The vit-C group had higher salivary cortisol levels on day 1 after farrowing than the other treatment groups (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the follicle diameters on day 3 after weaning in the vit-C group tended to be smaller than those in the control group (p = 0.077). HVC supplementation prolonged farrowing and increased the physiological stress on postpartum, and no advantageous effects on maternal behavior and developmental progression of preovulatory follicles were observed. Hence, alternative solutions beyond nutritional approaches are required to address increased oxidative stress in hyperprolific sows and secure their welfare and reproductive performance. The present results substantiated the positive impact of providing CCM as nesting material for sows with large litters on nest-building behavior and the farrowing process, which could mitigate the deleterious consequences induced by peripartum physiological and oxidative stress. Full article
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8 pages, 1286 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Mechanical and Thermal Characteristics of Coir Powder-Filled Epoxy Composites for Industrial Application
by Natrayan Lakshmaiya, S. Kaliappan, Neelima Devi Chinta and Padmanaban Govindarajulu
Eng. Proc. 2024, 61(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2024061013 - 29 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 867
Abstract
Creating environmentally friendly and renewable resources for various industrial uses has attracted increasing attention over the past few years. The thermal and mechanical features of epoxy-based composites filled with coir powder, an organic and sustainable fiber made from coconut husks, are examined in [...] Read more.
Creating environmentally friendly and renewable resources for various industrial uses has attracted increasing attention over the past few years. The thermal and mechanical features of epoxy-based composites filled with coir powder, an organic and sustainable fiber made from coconut husks, are examined in this work. The current study focuses on the thermo-mechanical performance of epoxy matrix composites with coir filler in the micrometer range. Tension, flexural, and dynamic mechanical analysis were all carried out to characterize and forecast the thermal behavior of the micro-composites and pure polymers. According to the findings of this study, 8 and 6 wt.% of coir filler-based composites exhibit the highest tensile and flexural strengths of 41.36 MPa and 171.24 MPa, respectively. In the case of dynamic mechanical analysis, 8 wt.% filler had the highest storage modulus of 1214.98 MPa. The results demonstrate that the damping factor increases dramatically as the temperature rises and reaches its maximum value after the glass transition section. Additionally, including coir powder improves the composites’ thermal insulation capabilities, indicating their promise in demanding thermal resistance and insulation. Full article
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11 pages, 3379 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Finite Element Study on Coconut Inflorescence Stem Fiber Composite Panels Subjected to Static Loading
by Muralidhar Nagarajaiah, Arunkumar Yadav, Shanmukha Prasannakumar, Raveesh Ranganathapura Mahadevaiah and Pavan Hiremath
Eng. Proc. 2023, 59(1), 215; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2023059215 - 24 Jan 2024
Viewed by 835
Abstract
Natural fiber-reinforced composites (NFCs) are alternatives to synthetic fiber-reinforced composites, since they are abundant in nature, inexpensive, lightweight, and have a high strength-to-weight ratio. Natural fibers encompass a diverse composition, including lignin, hemicellulose, wax, and cellulose. Natural fibers are environmentally friendly, biodegradable, renewable, [...] Read more.
Natural fiber-reinforced composites (NFCs) are alternatives to synthetic fiber-reinforced composites, since they are abundant in nature, inexpensive, lightweight, and have a high strength-to-weight ratio. Natural fibers encompass a diverse composition, including lignin, hemicellulose, wax, and cellulose. Natural fibers are environmentally friendly, biodegradable, renewable, reusable, and sustainable. In bio-composites, natural fibers such as jute, banana, hemp, coir, kenaf, areca nut, and coconut inflorescence stem fibers, are blended with resin. Natural fiber-reinforced bio-composites have various applications in the construction industry, automobile industry, aerospace industry, sports equipment and gadgets, textile industry, and hotel industry. Fibers from natural sources are also used as reinforcements in composites, such as roofing sheets, bricks, door panels, furniture panels, and panels for interior decoration. The mechanical properties of natural fiber-reinforced composites are profoundly influenced by the bonding between the fibers and the matrix. This study involves the testing of compact tension (CT) specimens under mode I fracture conditions and employs three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA) using ANSYS software to enhance our understanding of the material’s fracture behavior. Finite element analysis was performed on coconut inflorescence stem fiber-reinforced composite (CIFRC) panels with preformed cracks. Numerical simulation was carried out using ANSYS software. Properties such as crack growth initiation, stress-intensity factor, and stresses along the length of a CIFRC panel were examined using finite element analysis (FEA). ASTM D-5045 standards were followed for the specimen size and the ASTM E399 standard was followed for the finite element pre-cracking. The simulation results were found to be in good agreement with the analytical results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Proceedings of Eng. Proc., 2023, RAiSE-2023)
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18 pages, 6035 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Hydrothermal Treatment Effects on Coir Fibers for Incorporation into Polyurethane Matrix Biocomposites Derived from Castor Oil
by Mayara de Oliveira Camillo, Bárbara Maria Mateus Gonçalves, Veronica Scarpini Candido, Luciano Da Costa Dias, Jordão Cabral Moulin, Sergio Neves Monteiro and Michel Picanço Oliveira
Polymers 2023, 15(23), 4614; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15234614 - 4 Dec 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1538
Abstract
The incorporation of natural lignocellulosic fibers as reinforcements in polymer composites has witnessed significant growth due to their biodegradability, cost-effectiveness, and mechanical properties. This study aims to evaluate castor-oil-based polyurethane (COPU), incorporating different contents of coconut coir fibers, 5, 10, and 15 wt%. [...] Read more.
The incorporation of natural lignocellulosic fibers as reinforcements in polymer composites has witnessed significant growth due to their biodegradability, cost-effectiveness, and mechanical properties. This study aims to evaluate castor-oil-based polyurethane (COPU), incorporating different contents of coconut coir fibers, 5, 10, and 15 wt%. The investigation includes analysis of the physical, mechanical, and microstructural properties of these composites. Additionally, this study evaluates the influence of hydrothermal treatment on the fibers, conducted at 120 °C and 98 kPa for 30 min, on the biocomposites’ properties. Both coir fibers (CFs) and hydrothermal-treated coir fibers (HTCFs) were subjected to comprehensive characterization, including lignocellulosic composition analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The biocomposites were subjected to water absorption analysis, bending tests, XRD, SEM, FTIR, and TGA. The results indicate that the 30 min hydrothermal treatment reduces the extractive content, enhancing the interfacial adhesion between the fiber and the matrix, as evidenced by SEM. Notably, the composite containing 5 wt% CF exhibits a reduced water absorption, approaching the level observed in pure COPU. The inclusion of 15 wt% HTCF results in a remarkable improvement in the composite’s flexural strength (100%), elastic modulus (98%), and toughness (280%) compared to neat COPU. TGA highlights that incorporating CFs into the COPU matrix enhances the material’s thermal stability, allowing it to withstand temperatures of up to 500 °C. These findings underscore the potential of CFs as a ductile, lightweight, and cost-effective reinforcement in COPU matrix biocomposites, particularly for engineering applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites and Nanocomposites)
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