Study on effect of Vermicomposting towards heavy metal in polluted soil

Abstract

An assessment was made on soil from mango farm in Kampung Behor Janggus, Perlis. Types and percentages of heavy metal in the soil sample are determined by using X-Ray Fluorescene (XRF). Three (3) concentrations of the heavy metal which are Copper (Cu), Iron (Fe) dan Zinc (Zn) are determined. The first objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of vermicomposting towards heavy metal in polluted soil using the difference weight of worms and time contact. The second objective of this study is to study the suitability of moisture content and temperature of soil in performing vermicomposting. The sample of soil are divided into four (4) reactors with same mass of soil but difference in mass of worms. The type of earthworm that use in this study is Lumbricus Rubellus or known as red worm. Then, Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS) are used to determine all three concentrations of heavy metals in the soil sample and the results shows the concentration of heavy metal increased starting from day one (1). However, concentration of Zinc (Zn) are not detected. Otherwise, the moisture content and temperature during this study are suitable with 30% to 60% for moisture content and 10oC to 35oC for temperature of soil.