Palm Oil Research Articles

Palm Oil as a Transformer Insulating Fluid: A Review

Traditionally, mineral oil has dominated the industry due to its reliable dielectric properties and effective thermal conductivity. However, the increasing environmental concerns surrounding the use of non-renewable and ecologically hazardous mineral oil have initiated research into alternative, sustainable insulating fluids. Palm oil has emerged as a potential candidate due to its biodegradable nature and renewable source. This paper provides a comprehensive review of palm oil’s suitability as a transformer insulating fluid, comparing its dielectric properties, thermal stability, and environmental benefits to those of mineral oil. Besides, palm oil exhibits promising characteristics, including a breakdown voltage of up to 60 kV, superior moisture tolerance, and a higher relative permittivity, making it suitable for high-voltage applications. However, challenges remain, particularly regarding oxidation stability and viscosity, which require further refinement for broader adoption. The study emphasizes the potential of palm oil to align with global sustainability goals while addressing the technical requirements of transformers.

An In-Depth Analysis of Sustainable Sourcing Practices and Their Environmental Impact in the Cosmetics Industry: A Case Study of L’Oréal USA and Unilever USA

The pursuit of enhanced appearance has driven the evolution of beauty practices from natural ingredients to processed and packaged products. However, this progression has significantly impacted the environment through pollution and waste. The cosmetics business has a significant environmental impact because it relies on natural resources, energy consumption, and packaging waste. An increasing number of consumers are demanding sustainable products. Thus, significant cosmetics businesses like Unilever and L’Oréal have committed to more sustainable sourcing procedures. This study looks at Unilever and L’Oréal’s sustainability activities and ambitions for sourcing cosmetic ingredients in the U.S. between 2019 and 2023. It concludes that both businesses have made significant strides. Unilever has committed to sourcing all of its agricultural raw materials sustainably by 2025 and to using plastic packaging that is fully recyclable or compostable by 2030, while L’Oréal wants to source all of its palm oil sustainably by 2025 and reduce emissions by 25% per finished product by 2030. The study highlights that both companies have implemented various strategies, including partnerships with sustainable suppliers, renewable energy use, reduced packaging waste, and deforestation-free certifications. Despite these developments, problems with waste management, transparency, inefficient corporate social responsibility (CSR), increasing the price of sustainable components, and satisfying consumer demand still exist. The study highlights that despite notable advancements and industry acclaim for their sustainability initiatives, Unilever and L’Oréal still encounter challenges in pursuing more sustainably sourced cosmetic ingredients. Their progress is a benchmark and inspiration for the broader cosmetics industry, demonstrating a commitment to a sustainable future.

Exploiting Self-Immobilized Fungi for Biovalorization of Oil Palm Sap to Organic Acids Through Repeated-Batch Fermentation.

This study focused on utilizing agricultural waste, oil palm sap (OPS) as a sole nutrient source for organic acid production by self-immobilized fungi. Among the fungi cultured in OPS, Rhizopus oryzae TISTR 3336 was selected as it could form compact and adequate-size pellets (3-5mm) and gave the highest total acid production yield of 0.31±0.02g/g-sugar under pH control. The optimal conditions were as follows: inoculum size of 106 spores/mL and shaking speed of 120rpm. Using concentrated OPS gave higher final concentration of organic acids but reduced the production yield. The repeated-batch fermentation of OPS by self-immobilized fungi was successfully carried out for four cycles. The optimal initial sugar concentration was 40g/L, giving the organic acid productions ranging of 19 to 35g/L, with yields ranging of 0.47 to 0.87g/g-sugar. This study has shown the efficient bioconversion of agricultural wastes into organic acids using self-immobilized fungi in the repeated-batch fermentation.

Cycle Voltametry Performance of Nitrogen-Doped Reduced Graphene Oxide Derived from Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch for Sodium-Ion Batteries

This study investigates the electrochemical performance of nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide (NRGO) derived from oil palm empty fruit bunches as an anode material for sodium-ion batteries (SIB). The aim is to evaluate the potential of NRGO to enhance sodium-ion storage through cyclic voltammetry (CV) analysis. The NRGO was synthesized using a modified Hummers method followed by nitrogen doping through thermal treatment under an ammonia atmosphere. Cyclic voltammetry measurements were conducted at scan rates of 0.2 mV/s, 1 mV/s, and 10 mV/s to analyze the redox behavior and charge storage capacity. At a low scan rate of 0.2 mV/s, the current response was minimal, indicating limited sodium-ion intercalation. At 1 mV/s, the current increased, suggesting enhanced ionic mobility, though no distinct redox peaks were observed, implying a primarily capacitive mechanism. At the highest scan rate of 10 mV/s, the current response increased further, but the absence of clear redox peaks persisted, indicating limited faradaic reactions. The initial CV cycles showed a higher current due to the formation of a solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer and structural rearrangements, which stabilized in subsequent cycles. The overall charge storage mechanism appears to be dominated by double-layer capacitance rather than faradaic processes. These findings suggest that NRGO derived from oil palm empty fruit bunches exhibits moderate electrochemical performance as a SIB anode material. While the material demonstrates promising charge storage capabilities, further optimization is required to enhance redox activity. Future research should focus on improving synthesis conditions, such as increasing nitrogen doping levels and enhancing surface area, to achieve better electrochemical performance and make NRGO a viable candidate for sodium-ion battery applications.

Predictive Modelling of H2S Removal from Biogas Generated from Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME) Using Biological Scrubber in an Industrial Biogas Plant: Integration of Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Process Simulation

Research background. Biogas production from Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME) is inherently unstable due to variations in feedstock composition and operating conditions. These fluctuations can result in inconsistent biogas quality, variable methane content, and fluctuating levels of hydrogen sulphide (H2S), posing significant challenges for bioscrubbers in removing H2S to meet the quality standards for gas engines used in electricity generation. This research aims to address these challenges by integrating simulation models using a computer programme and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) to predict the performance of a bioscrubber at a POME treatment plant in Johor, Malaysia. Experimental approach. Initially, the process flowsheet model was simulated using a computer programme. The prediction of H2S removal was then conducted using a machine learning algorithm, specifically ANN, based on two years of historical data obtained from the biogas plant. Furthermore, a detailed techno-economic analysis was conducted to determine the economic feasibility of the process. Results and conclusions. Simulation results revealed a biogas yield of 26.12 Nm3 of biogas per m3 of POME, aligning with industry data with less than 1 % deviation. The ANN model achieved a high coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.9 and a low mean squared error (MSE), with the bioscrubber reaching approximately 96 % H2S removal efficiency. The techno-economic analysis indicated that the process is feasible, with a net present value of $131,000 and a payback period of 7 years. Novelty and scientific contribution. The integration of ANN and the computer programme provides a robust framework for predicting bioscrubber performance and ensuring stable bioscrubber operation due to their complementary strengths. ANN accurately predicts H2S removal using daily recorded data, while the computer programme estimates parameters not monitored daily, such as chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD), and total suspended solids (TSS). This research provides valuable insights into sustainable biogas production practices, offering opportunities to improve energy efficiency and environmental sustainability in the palm oil industry.

Improving Stability of Biodiesel from 20% Free Fatty Acid Palm Oil with Tert-butylhydroquinone at Various Concentrations for 52 Weeks of Storage

Overcoming the oxidation stability of biodiesel has been a significant challenge, especially after an extended storage period. To test a major factor affecting biodiesel quality, eight different conditions consisting of water at a concentration of 500 ppm and tert-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) concentrations of 500, 1000, and 2000 ppm, in combination, were added to palm biodiesel, with no-water-added treatment as the control. Samples were kept in dark storage and air-limited at room temperature for 52 weeks with an initial carbon residue of 0.05 wt%. Every sample was periodically taken for property examination, which included the percentage of fatty acid methyl ester (FAME), iodine value (IV), kinematic viscosity (KV), acid value (AV), and oxidation stability. The properties of the samples with 500 ppm of water-added biodiesel exhibited the most significant degradation, even though oxidation stability (starting from 43.37 h) remained higher than 10.00 h after 32 weeks. The IV dropped 48.43% from 49.92 to 25.56 g I2/100 g. The KV increased 6.14% from 4.56 to 4.84 cSt. The AV rose from 0.45 to 1.09 mg KOH/g. Biodiesel with 2000 ppm TBHQ added was stable for 22 weeks, with all properties under standard values. However, biodiesel in the same condition but with water contamination, its stability was reduced to 16 weeks.

Synthesis and Lubricating Properties of Bio-Based Lubricants from Palm Oil.

This study explores the synthesis of bio-lubricants derived from palm oil, highlighting its potential as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based lubricants. Through epoxidation and subsequent ring-opening reactions using isoamyl alcohol, palmitic acid esters (PAE), with enhanced thermal and oxidative stability was developed. Optimal ring-opening reaction conditions, identified as 100 °C with p-toluenesulfonic acid as the catalyst. The synthesized bio-lubricant PAE, exhibited superior tribological performance, achieving lower friction coefficients and reduced wear scar diameters compared to the original palm oil. Comparing PAE with palm oil, the average coefficient of friction was reduced by 9.8%, the PB value increased from 82 kg to 88 kg, and the PD value increased from 620 kg to 800 kg. The average grinding spot diameter decreased from about 600 μm to 500 μm, a decrease of 16.7%.These findings highlight its potential as a sustainable and effective industrial lubricant.This study underscores the significance of chemical modification in enhancing the performance of bio-lubricants and contributes to the development of environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional petroleum-based products, offering sustainable solutions for industrial lubrication needs.

Surfaces and interfaces analysis on different carboxymethylation reaction time of anionic cellulose nanoparticles derived from oil palm biomass

Abstract Recent advancements in nanotechnology have expanded the applications of cellulose nanoparticles (CNPs) isolated from various types of biomass waste like oil palm empty fruit bunches. These applications are particularly enhanced by incorporating nanoparticles or polymers. However, a significant challenge in synthesizing CNP-based nanocomposites lies in the selection of appropriate synthesis methods, as ineffective techniques can result in poor compatibility between nanoparticles. To overcome this issue, surface modification through carboxymethylation has emerged as an effective strategy. This process introduces anionic groups (−CH2COONa+) onto the CNP surface, producing anionic nanocellulose particles (ACNPs) that act as capping agents to enhance nanoparticle incorporation. Despite these advancements, the optimum reaction time for isolating ACNPs from CNPs, particularly nanocrystalline cellulose, remains underexplored. This study investigates the effect of varying carboxymethylation reaction times (30 min, 2, 4, 6, and 8 h) on the synthesis of ACNPs. Characterization techniques, including Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, zeta potential analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), were employed. The results indicate that a reaction time of 4 h is optimal for carboxymethylation. ACNPs synthesized at this duration exhibit good dispersion, improved thermal stability, and a high zeta potential value (−41 mV) compared to CNPs (−25 mV). FTIR analysis reveals new peaks at 1,564, 1,432, and 1,321 cm⁻¹, corresponding to the carboxyl, methyl (−CH2), and hydroxyl groups of the carboxymethyl group (−CH2–COONa), respectively. Additionally, XPS results show a high concentration of Na⁺ ions in ACNPs synthesized at 4 h. Beyond this reaction time, Na⁺ concentration decreases.

RSM based optimization of process parameters of biodiesel production from waste palm oil using modified nano-catalyst

This paper presents an investigation for biodiesel production from waste palm oil, utilizing a modified nano-catalyst. The study explores the influence of critical input parameters, including methanol to oil molar ratio, reaction temperature, and catalyst concentration, on yield and viscosity of biodiesel. Employing a response surface methodology (RSM) based face-centred central composite design (FCCCD), twenty experiments were conducted, and the corresponding values for yield and viscosity were measured. The data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA), response graphs, and 3D surface plots, development of quadratic models for prediction of the output responses. To achieve multi-response optimization, a desirability function approach was applied, leading to the determination of optimal input parameters. Following optimal conditions were identified: methanol to oil molar ratio at 12.17:1, reaction temperature at 114.81 °C, and catalyst concentration at 7.33 wt.%, resulting in a biodiesel yield of 92.90% and a viscosity of 4.34 mm²/s.

Calamity and Treatment Approach of Sulfate in Palm Oil Mill Effluent: A Mini Review

Calamity and Treatment Approach of Sulfate in Palm Oil Mill Effluent: A Mini Review

Oil palm biomass: a potential feedstock for lignocellulolytic enzymes and biofuels production.

The availability of low-cost feedstocks for the production of lignocellulolytic enzymes and bioenergy products is a major challenge for biofuel industry. Oil palm processing generates huge amount of residual biomass that can be utilized for cost-effective production of lignocellulolytic enzymes and second-generation biofuels. The cultivation of oil palm and extraction of oil generates residues in the form of oil palm empty fruit bunches, oil palm frond, and oil palm trunk that are rich source of cellulose and hemicelluloses. The integration of these oil palm-based residues to circular economy mitigates wastes disposal problems and provides clean energy. Oil palm biomass has also been proved as cost-effective substrates for the production enzymes under solid-state and submerged fermentation especially using fungi. The rapidly increasing global renewable energy demand requires the potential sources. The oil palm biomass can be suitable resource for generation of renewable energy. The conversion of oil palm biomass into biofuels requires efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly pretreatment. Physical, chemical, and biological pretreatments and their combinations have been employed to remove lignin and to enhance the digestibility of carbohydrates available in oil palm-based residues. The advancement in pretreatment technologies and enzymatic hydrolysis resulted in release of maximum amountof sugars for biofuels production. This paper investigates the recent research progress on valorization of oil palm-based residues into cellulases, xylanases, ligninolytic enzymes, bioethanol, biobutanol, biomethane, bio-oil, and xylitol.

Temporal structuring and the improvisation of management control in palm oil processing

PurposeThe key motivation of our research is to explore the complexities of management control in a complicated process of palm oil production setting. We seek to unpack the ways in which refinery operations staff (re)construct adaptive practices to manage temporal uncertainties and competing obsessions to effectively control the volatile and highly uncertain palm oil production processes of a large refinery in Malaysia.Design/methodology/approachOur research adopts a qualitative methodology, framed around an ethnographic case study that utilizes multiple methods of data collection and analysis including observations, interviews, and document analysis. We observe how the key production processes and conduct eighty-one interviews with managers and workers who engage in inter-retro-actions around organizational decisions to prioritise a market aesthetic that results in highly uncertain manufacturing processes in the complex setting of palm oil refining.FindingsUsing the lens of improvisation in a complex organizational process (Amit and Knowles, 2017; Cunha et al., 2017; Weick, 2024), we explore the ambitious yet complex production dynamics, and the competing control pressures to meet an acceptable aesthetic quality within an acceptable cost of palm oil production. Our findings provide insight into how actors construct improvised incremental control across the palm oil production processes. Our findings provide a better understanding of how complex production processes such as palm oil face temporal uncertainties that lead to the necessity to craft temporal adaptive process routines.Originality/valueWe contribute by revealing the temporality of flexible control where actors cultivate temporary buffers or momentary improvisations to manage temporal uncertainties in a complex process industry setting. We uncover the fluid site of control where actors engage in temporary coordination of in-present-improvisational actions to alter temporal uncertainties due to attending to competing targets. We contend that much can be learned about interpersonal autonomous control in managing volatility and repairing control breakdowns in complex production processes that cannot simply be forecasted with sufficient accuracy. We believe that interpersonal reflection-in-actions becomes a necessity when standardized or controlled environments seek to achieve contradictory goals.

Comparison of Different Types of Bleaching Earth on the Quality of Bleaching Palm Oil (BPO)

Bleaching Earth (BE), primarily derived from Bentonite, is widely used in the bleaching process of Crude Palm Oil (CPO). Its efficiency depends on the proportions of SiO₂, and Al₂O₃, which enable effective pigment absorption. This study evaluates the performance of unmodified Bentonite, nano SiO₂-modified Bentonite, and commercial BE in producing Bleached Palm Oil (BPO). The novelty lies in the nano SiO₂ modification, designed to enhance the structural properties and absorption capabilities of Bentonite. Characterization of BE was conducted using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), while BPO quality was assessed through parameters like moisture content, acid value, Free Fatty Acid (FFA) levels, (Deterioration of Bleachability Index (DOBI), and β carotene concentration. The results showed that BPO processed with nano SiO₂-modified Bentonite had the lowest β carotene concentration (443%) and a DOBI value of 1.453, demonstrating superior bleaching performance compared to unmodified and commercial BE. Other parameters, including FFA levels and moisture content, exhibited minimal variation. Color analysis revealed that BPO processed with nano SiO₂-modified Bentonite achieved a comparable color value (1.5/15) to commercial BE. These findings highlight the potential of nano SiO₂-modified bentonite for improving oil quality by reducing FFA and acid value while maintaining optimal moisture content, offering a novel and effective alternative to unmodified bentonite in oil refining.

Pengaruh Performa Mesin Diesel Berbahan Bakar Crude Palm Oil (CPO) dan B35 Terhadap Variasi Pembebanan

One use of alternative fuel that has the potential to be developed currently is crude palm oil (CPO). However, the use of CPO must go through a series of direct tests before it is widely applied. So the aim of this research is to carry out tests related to the use of CPO fuel and determine the effects in terms of engine performance and exhaust emissions. The fuel used in this research is CPO and B35 as existing fuel. The method used is an experimental method, through direct observation and measurement of phenomena when CPO fuel is tested for performance and exhaust emissions. The research used a diesel engine coupled to a generator and loaded with halogen lamps. The loading varies, namely 0.5; 1; 1.5; 2; 2.5; 3; 3.5; 4; up to 4.5 kW. Based on research results, the use of CPO fuel in general will produce higher power, torque and SFC, namely 2.55% each; 2.55%; and 17%. However, when comparing the thermal efficiency, hydrocarbon (HC) emissions and smoke opacity of CPO fuel, it produces a lower value of 10.54%; 15.4%; and 72% compared to B35 fuel engines. This is generally influenced by CPO fuel which has a lower calorific value, viscosity value and higher density than B35.

Optimization of Palm Frond Pulping Using a Soda-Anthraquinone Process in a Circulating Digester: A Sustainable Approach

Oil palm fronds, typically discarded after pruning, have potential as a raw material due to their lignocellulosic content. This study optimizes the soda-anthraquinone pulping process using a circulating digester. It investigates the effects of cooking temperatures (140, 150, and 160°C), cooking times (120, 180, and 240 minutes), and NaOH concentrations (10%, 15%, and 20%) with 0.1% anthraquinone, employing Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on Central Composite Design (CCD). Analysis with Design Expert 13 software revealed significant impacts on yield (19.01-31.00%), kappa number (9.24-15.69), and viscosity (2.91-34.45 cP). Optimal conditions were 140°C, 120 minutes, and 10% NaOH, yielding 30.57% pulp, kappa number of 13.87, and viscosity of 24.03 cP. This research underscores the environmental benefits of utilizing palm fronds, contributing to waste reduction and circular economy practices, and demonstrates the potential for industrial scalability, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional pulping methods.

Long-Term Fish Oil Supplementation Attenuates Spike Wave Discharges in the Amygdala of Adult Rats with Early-Life Febrile Seizures

Background and Objectives: Febrile seizures (FS) are neuronal disturbances frequently associated with abnormal electroencephalographic activity (EEG) as spike-wave discharges (SWDs). Fish oil (FO) has high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids (θ-3), and its effects on FS alterations are poorly understood. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of long-term FO supplementation on the EEG of the amygdala of adult male rats with early-life FS. Materials and Methods: Progenitor female Wistar rats, from puberty to gestation and delivery, were fed daily with a commercial diet supplemented with either fish oil (FO), palm oil (PO), or deionized water (CTRL). After parturition, male pups were exposed for 30 min to hyperthermia (HP) and then returned to their dams. After weaning, pups were fed a commercial diet and the respective treatments up to 155 days of age when electrodes were implanted in the amygdala. Results: During early life HP, the PO and CTRL groups reached maximal core temperature (CT) in comparison with the FO group. Furthermore, the FO group only has fewer myoclonus and long latency to adopt an uncontrolled posture. At an adult age, the FO group with early-life FS scored shorter periods of SWDs in amygdala EEG but without seizures and presented minor values of absolute power than the PO and CTRL groups. Conclusions: In adult rats, the long-term supplementation of FO minimizes the deleterious behavioral effects caused by early-life FS and decreases the occurrence and amplitude of SWDs in the EEG of the amygdala.

First Report of Paramarasmius palmivorus Causing Collar Rot of Solanum aethiopicum Gilo in Ghana

African eggplant (Solanum aethiopicum gilo group) is a nutritious vegetable widely commercialized in Ghana. In the 2021 planting season (May-July), collar rot symptoms were observed on African eggplant on a farm at Domeabra, Legon, and Okumaning in the Central (N5° 48′ 11″, W1° 26′ 48″), Greater Accra (N5° 39′ 34″, W0° 11′ 34″) and Eastern (N6° 8′ 34″, W0° 55′ 59″) regions of Ghana, respectively. Disease incidence was 8-15% in the different farms. Infected plants showed gray-colored lesions at the collar region, soft root rot, and, eventually, wilted due to stem girdling. Thin mycelia were observed on the affected parts of the stem and roots. To identify the causal agent, small portions of diseased stem tissues were submerged in 2% NaOCl for 2 min and rinsed thrice in sterile distilled water (SDW). Next, they were transferred to PDA, amended with ampicillin (50 mg/ml), and then incubated at 25°C for 3 days. Twelve isolates purified by the hyphal-tip culture method were similar morphologically, fluffy with a smooth texture like fine chamois, initially cottony white, and turning pale orange at the center with aging. They were fast-growing, reaching 63.7 to 72.1 cm in diameter. Hyphae were hyaline, septate, branched, 1.4 to 3.1 µm in diameter. These morphological features resembled Paramarasmius sp., classified originally as Marasmius (Sharples) (Antonín et al., 2022). Genomic DNA was extracted from the mycelia of three isolates from the various sampling regions for molecular identification. Two rDNA regions, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and mitochondria small subunit (mtSSU), were amplified and sequenced using the ITS1/ITS4 and MS1/MS2 primers, respectively (White et al., 1990). BLASTn analysis of the ITS and the mtSSU sequences revealed a 99.9% and 99.8% identity to P. palmivorus (MN871733.1 and MN794124.1, respectively), further confirmed by phylogenetic analyses. To confirm pathogenicity, the inoculum was made by transferring mycelial plugs from three isolates into autoclaved millet grains, pre-soaked in SDW for 6 hrs. The cultures were incubated at 25 ± 1°C for 8 days, with regular shaking every 2 days to ensure uniform growth. Subsequently, fungal inoculation was made by placing three grains colonized by mycelia close to the stem base of a 21-day-old healthy seedling of African eggplant (cv. Kotobi) raised in pots filled with sterilized potting soil. Each fungal treatment consisted of six replicates of inoculated plants. Three plants were mock-inoculated with autoclaved grains to serve as control treatments, and the experiment was repeated twice. The plants were kept in a screen house with a 12/12 hrs light-dark cycle at 28 ± 3°C. Daily irrigation was done using SDW. Five days after inoculation, typical stem rot symptoms developed at the collar region, characterized by grey water-soaked lesions and thin white mycelium. Next, the seedlings toppled, wilted, and died within 7-14 days. No symptoms were observed in the mock-inoculated plants. The pathogen was reisolated from infected plants on PDA and confirmed as P. palmivorus according to the molecular approach outlined above. P. palmivorus has been recorded to cause bunch rot in oil palm and thread blight disease of cocoa in Ghana (Amoako-Attah et al., 2020). To our knowledge, this study is the first record of P. palmivorus affecting African eggplant in Ghana, and it emphasizes the need to control and determine the host range of this pathogen.

Soil bacterial community composition of different tropical land use systems in Jambi province, Indonesia.

We sequenced the V3-V4 region of 16S rRNA genes and transcripts to assess entire (DNA) and active (RNA) soil bacterial communities in four different Indonesian land use systems (jungle rubber, rubber, oil palm, and rainforest). Acidobacteriota and Planctomycetes were dominant, with higher relative abundances at active community level.

Immediate Chemical Response and Potential Phytotoxicity of Different Tropical Soils to Empty Oil Palm Fruit Bunch Biochar Application

Abstract Crop production in tropical soils is often constrained by inherent infertility, acidification, and phosphorus sorption, challenges that can be addressed with empty oil palm fruit bunch (EFB) biochar. However, its use in small-scale farming in Ghana is relatively new, and there is limited information on safe application rates for different soils. This study aimed to determine the optimal loading capacity of EFB biochar for various tropical soils, focusing on immediate chemical responses, potential phytotoxicity and nutrient uptake across different application rates. The study examined the effect of EFB biochar application on soil chemical properties, maize phytotoxicity and nutrient uptake in four tropical soils (Acrisol, Brown and Red Ferralsols and Vertisol) in incubation, germination and pot experiments. EFB biochar application increased the pH of all the soil types except Vertisol. At a 2% w/w application rate, available phosphorus increased by 175%, 68.9%, and 49%, and total organic carbon contents also increased by 49%, 22%, and 19% in Acrisol, Brown Ferralsol and Vertisol, respectively. The study observed no phytotoxic effect of EFB biochar on maize germination in all soil types. Additionally, the co-application of EFB biochar with inorganic fertiliser significantly increased N and P uptakes in the Acrisol, but the positive effect was insignificant for the other soil types. Based on the comprehensive amelioration score, the highest application rate of 2% emerged as the ideal rate for Acrisol, Red Ferralsol and Vertisol soil types, whilst a rate of 1% was best suited for the Brown Ferralsol. The findings suggest that EFB biochar has the potential to resolve problems of acidification and phosphorus sorption and can also enhance nutrient uptake in certain tropical soils, without having phytotoxic effects on germination. However, the magnitude of these effects varied with soil types and was more pronounced in the Acrisol.

Palm Fruit Management

Four studies were conducted in South Florida and in Southern California to evaluate the growth regulator dikegulac-sodium (Atrimmec®) for palm fruit elimination. Species tested were queen palms [Syagrus romanzoffiana (Cham.) Glassman] and coconut palms Cocos nucifera L. in Florida; Mexican fan palms Washingtonia robusta H. Wendl. and date palms Phoenix dactylifera L. in California. Dikegulac-sodium was applied either as a trunk injection or basal soil drench. Evaluations were made of quantity of inflorescences, infructescences, and date yields. No significant differences were noted in any of the species tested. Future studies should investigate higher doses of dikegulac-sodium for palm fruit management.