Carbon-mineral composites as effective soil deacidification agents and adsorbents of substances used in crop protection products

The objective of the study was to assess the efficacy of a newly synthesized carbon-mineral adsorbent, derived from apple pomace and cement-lime dust, both as a soil deacidifying agent and an adsorbent for organic compounds, such as captan, a commonly used fungicide. Four types of acidic soils, characterized by different granulometric compositions, were tested for their deacidification properties. Our results showed a significant increase in soil pH, with stabilization observed between pH 5.80–8.09 in light soils (sand, loamy sand) and 5.48–7.28 in heavy soils (sandy loam, silt loam). In addition, the carbon-mineral adsorbent enriched soils with essential nutrients such as Na, Mg, P, S, and K, enhancing soil fertility and retention capacity. The material effectively adsorbed captan according to a multi-center Langmuir model. This property is beneficial in preventing captan leaching and facilitating its degradation, thereby reducing environmental contamination. The carbon-mineral adsorbent demonstrates significant potential as a multifunctional soil amendment, offering benefits in pH adjustment, nutrient enrichment, and contaminant adsorption. Its synthesis from waste materials and application supports sustainable agricultural practices and environmental protection. • The carbon-mineral adsorbent, derived from apple pomace and cement-lime dust was used for deacidification of soil and for adsorption for captan.