Abstract
This study explores whether Thermomagnesium (TM), a by-product of Ni ore mining, is an efficient fertilizer for maize. The effects of TM on soil pH, the supply of Si and Mg to the soil and plants, carbohydrate metabolism, grain filling, and yield were assessed in two simultaneous experiments performed in greenhouse conditions. Five TM doses were applied to two soil textures—clayey (0, 55, 273, 709, and 2018 mg kg−1) and sandy (0, 293, 410, 645, and 1260 mg kg−1). In general, the best results in soil and maize plants occurred at the highest TM dose for both soil textures (clayey 2018 mg kg−1 and sandy 1260 mg kg−1). The results demonstrated that in both soils, the concentrations of Mg and Si in the maize leaves increased with the dose of TM, similarly to that which occurred in the soil. Interestingly, in clayey soil, the soil pH increased linearly, whereas in sandy soil, the pH reached its maximum value between the two largest TM doses. The concentration of reducing sugars increased at the highest TM dose, whereas the concentrations of sucrose and starch decreased. The enhancement of carbohydrate partitioning led to higher maize growth, grain filling, and yield. Overall, the results clearly demonstrate that TM is a sustainable alternative fertilizer for maize and can be used for countless other crops and soil classifications, thus providing a suitable destination for this by-product of Ni ore mining.
Highlights
From an economic perspective, maize (Zea mays L.) is a global standout among crops because of its wide range of uses in human food, animal feed, and industrial applications [1].This broad utility has led to an increasing demand for maize [2]
When maize was established in clayey soil at the highest TM dose, the leaf Mg concentration reached 3.44 g kg−1 (Figure 2A), and the leaf Si concentration reached 15.42 g kg−1 (Figure 2B)
When maize was establish in clayey soil at the highest TM dose, the leaf Mg concentration reached 3.44 g kg−1
Summary
Maize (Zea mays L.) is a global standout among crops because of its wide range of uses in human food, animal feed, and industrial applications [1]. This broad utility has led to an increasing demand for maize [2]. Brazil is the fifth largest consumer of fertilizer in the world, and maize accounts for approximately 16% of its fertilizer use [7,8]. The use of by-products as a fertilizer in agriculture is an effective means of improving soil quality, increasing crop yields, and mitigating environmental impacts, while generating a new source of revenue [14]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call