INTRODUCTION

Our project aimed to explore and compare the effectiveness of organic fertilizers
derived from fish scales and a combination of banana peels and eggshells against
synthetic chemical fertilizers. Fish scales contribute to sustainability by being a
source for biodegradable materials, aiding in the creation of eco- friendly plastics
and polymers. Fish scales possess fertilizer potential due to their rich collagen.
content and nutrient composition. Collagen, a structural protein abundant in
scales, contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and trace elements beneficial for plant
growth. When broken down, fish. scales release these nutrients into the soil,
enhancing its fertility. Our research centred on exploring the potent We
conducted a thorough analysis, comparing the effectiveness of fish scale fertilizer
with a subtle combination of banana peels and eggshells against a synthetic
fertilizer. The goal was to enhance the nutrient content of the soil and evaluate its
efficacy as an organic fertilizer for soil enrichment and improved plant growth.

1
 OBJECTIVES

1. To evaluate the nutrient composition of 'FEB NutriBoost' organic fertilizer, and

synthetic chemical fertilizers.

2. To assess the effects of organic and synthetic fertilizers on soil properties such as
nutrient content, and microbial activity.

3. To compare the growth performance, yield, and nutrient content of plants treated
with organic fertilizers versus synthetic chemical fertilizers.

4. To analyze the environmental impact and sustainability implications of organic

versus synthetic fertilizers.

HYPOTHESIS
We hypothesize that organic fertilizers, particularly 'FEB NutriBoost', will demonstrate
comparable or superior effectiveness in enhancing soil nutrition and promoting plant
growth compared to synthetic chemical fertilizers.

2
METHODOLOGY
MATERIALS REQUIRED

1. Plant seeds ( radish , pumpkin, coriander)

2. 12 plant pots with fertile soil ( 4 pots for each type of seeds)

3. Fresh fish scales collected from local fish markets.

4. Discarded banana peels and eggshells collected from household waste.

5. FEB NUTRIBOOST

6. Commercially available chemical fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and

potassium (NPK).

7. Dropper

8. Graduated cylinders, measuring spoons, and scales for accurate measurement of

materials.

9. Shovels, trowels, and gardening gloves for soil preparation and plant
maintenance.

3
EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE
1. Preparation of FEB Nutriboost:
First banana peel liquid fertilizer was prepared by soaking banana peels in water for 2
days & then discarding the banana peels.

Fish emulsion and fish scales were grounded with a pestle and mortar. Finely crushed
eggshells were taken.

Now for the final mixture, 1 part of banana peel liquid fertilizer , 1 part of crushed
eggshells and 1 part of grounded fish scales were taken.

For a much smoother texture, the mixture was mixed thoroughly using blender.

2. Sow each of the 4 pots with the seeds evenly spaced from each other.

3. Planting and growth monitoring:

Plant seeds or seedlings in designated pots filled with treated soil. Water plants regularly
and monitor growth parameters such as height, leaf size, and overall health over the
course of the experiment.

4. When the seeds grow into saplings and the plant height is at least 10cm, add FEB
Nutriboost to two pots in each batch and chemical fertilizer to the other two respectively.

5. Data collection:
Label the pots accordingly and record observations of plant growth and soil fertility at
regular intervals.
Measure nutrient levels in soil samples using appropriate testing kits or laboratory
analysis.

4
OBSERVATIONS
BATCH 1
RADISH
DAYS FEB NUTRIBOOST CHEMICAL FERTILIZER

Seeds added to Pot Seeds added to Pot

DAY 1

Sapling height 6.5 Sapling height

DAY 10 cm 7 cm

DAY 20 Sapling height Sapling height

(Fertilizer & FEB 12 cm 15cm
added to respective
pots)
Sapling height Sapling height
DAY 30 19cm 19 cm

Plant height Plant height

DAY 40 24 cm 24 cm

Plant height Plant height

DAY 50 30cm 27.5 cm
(started flowering)
Plant height Plant height 31 cm
DAY 60 37 cm

5
TURNIP

DAYS FEB Nutriboost Chemical Fertilizer

Seeds were sown. Seeds were sown.

DAY 1

Sapling height 3.7cm Sapling height 3.4cm

DAY 10

DAY 20 Sapling height 8.4cm Sapling height 7cm

(Fertilizer & FEB added
to respective pots)

Plant height 18cm Plant height 16.2cm

DAY 30

Plant height 25.1cm Plant height 22.1cm

DAY 40

Plant height 39.4cm Plant height 35.2cm

DAY 50

6
CORIANDER

DAYS FEB NUTRIBOOST CHEMICAL

FERTILIZER

Seeds added to Pot Seeds added to Pot

DAY 1

Sapling height 5 cm Sapling height

DAY 10 6 cm

DAY 20 Sapling height Sapling height

(Fertilizer & FEB added 10 cm 10.5cm
to respective pots)

Sapling height Sapling height

DAY 30 16.5 cm 15.5 cm

Plant height Plant height

DAY 40 22 cm 21 cm

Plant height Plant height

DAY 50 27 cm 25.5 cm

7
BATCH 2
PUMPKIN

DAYS FEB NUTRIBOOST CHEMICAL FERTILIZER

Seeds added to Pot Seeds added to Pot

DAY 1

Sapling height Sapling height

DAY 10 6.5 cm 8 cm

DAY 20 Sapling height Sapling height

(Fertilizer & FEB 15 cm 15cm
added to respective
pots)
Sapling height Sapling height
DAY 30 21 cm 19 cm

Plant height Plant height

DAY 40 26.5 cm 24 cm

Plant height Plant height

DAY 50 33cm 29.5 cm

8
RADISH
DAYS FEB NUTRIBOOST CHEMICAL FERTILIZER

Seeds added to Pot Seeds added to Pot

DAY 1

Sapling height 4.5 cm Sapling height

DAY 10 4.6 cm

DAY 20 Sapling height Sapling height

(Fertilizer & FEB added 13 cm 12.8cm
to respective pots)

Sapling height Sapling height

DAY 30 21.7cm 19.8 cm

Plant height Plant height

DAY 40 28.1 cm 23 cm

Plant height Plant height

DAY 45 30.4cm 26.8 cm
(started flowering)

9
turnip

DAYS FEB Nutriboost Chemical Fertilizer

Seeds were sown. Seeds were sown.

DAY 1

Sapling height 3.1cm Sapling height 3.3cm

DAY 10

DAY 20 Sapling height 9.4cm Sapling height 8.5cm

(Fertilizer & FEB added
to respective pots)

Plant height 19cm Plant height 15.2cm

DAY 35

10
CORIANDER

DAYS FEB NUTRIBOOST CHEMICAL

FERTILIZER

Seeds were sown Seeds were sown

DAY 1

Sapling height 6 cm Sapling height

DAY 10 6.3 cm

DAY 20 Sapling height Sapling height

(Fertilizer & FEB added 10.9 cm 10.6cm
to respective pots)

Sapling height Sapling height

DAY 30 17.9 cm 14.3 cm

Plant height Plant height

DAY 40 26 cm 22.3 cm

11
RED RADISH

DAYS FEB NUTRIBOOST CHEMICAL

FERTILIZER

Seeds were sown Seeds were sown

DAY 1

Sapling height 3.4 cm Sapling height

DAY 10 4.1 cm

DAY 20 Sapling height Sapling height

(Fertilizer & FEB added 9.4 cm 9.3cm
to respective pots)

Sapling height Sapling height

DAY 30 13.9 cm 12.8 cm

Plant height Plant height

DAY 40 27.5 cm 23.1 cm

12
GRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION

50 PLANT HEIGHT COMPARISON

44
45
40
40
36
35 32
30
Maximum Plant Height

30 28

25

20

15

10

0
Radish Pumpkin Coriander
FEB NutriBoost 44 40 30
Chemical Fertilizer 36 32 28
FEB NutriBoost Chemical Fertilizer

13
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Our analysis revealed that organic fertilizers derived from fish scales and a
combination of banana peels and eggshells demonstrated comparable effectiveness
to synthetic chemical fertilizers in enhancing soil fertility and promoting plant
growth. These findings highlight the potential of utilizing biodegradable materials
for sustainable agriculture practices and soil enrichment.
Overall, our research contributes to the development of eco-friendly fertilization
methods that support soil health and plant productivity while reducing reliance on
synthetic chemicals. Further studies and field trials are recommended to explore the
long-term effects and scalability of these organic fertilizers in agricultural systems.

CONCLUSION

The comparative analysis of 'FEB NutriBoost' organic fertilizer, and synthetic

chemical fertilizers will provide valuable insights into their effectiveness in
enhancing soil nutrition and supporting plant growth. By elucidating the benefits
and limitations of organic fertilizers, this project contributes to sustainable
agriculture practices and environmental stewardship.

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FUTURE PLANS
 Conduct long-term field trials to assess the sustainability and long-term effects
of organic fertilizers on soil health and crop productivity.
 Explore additional organic fertilizer formulations and alternative sources of
organic materials for nutrient supplementation.
 Investigate the economic viability and scalability of organic fertilizer production
methods for widespread adoption in agriculture.
 Collaborate with farmers, agricultural organizations, and policymakers to
promote the adoption of sustainable fertilizer practices and reduce reliance on
synthetic chemicals.

15
Phase 2
COCOCHAR FILTRATION MASKS: Coconut Biochar-Based ECO-
FRIENDLY Air Filtration Mask

Objective
The objective of this project is to develop an eco- friendly air
filtration mask using coconut biochar as the filtration medium.
The mask aims to effectively capture airborne pollutants and
particulate matter while providing comfort and breathability to
the wearer.

Hypothesis
We hypothesize that the Coconut Biochar-Based Air Filtration
Mask will demonstrate efficient filtration of airborne pollutants
due to the adsorption properties of coconut biochar. The mask
will provide comparable or superior filtration performance to conventional masks while
being environmentally sustainable.

Materials Needed:

1. Coconut Biochar ( 50gm )

2. Mask Template (approx. 20 cm in width and 15 cm in height).

3. Biodegradable Mask Material( organic cotton or hemp fabric 25 cm x 20 cm ).

1. Two elastic Bands ( each measuring approximately 20 cm in length.)

2. Sewing Kit: Include needles, thread, and scissors for fabric manipulation.

3. Replaceable Filter Pouch:( approximately 15 cm x 10 cm )

16
PROCEDURE

1. Prepare Coconut Biochar:

- Grind the coconut shells into fine particles and pyrolyze them to create biochar.
Ensure the biochar particles are finely ground for effective filtration.

2. Design the Mask:

- Use the mask template to trace and cut the biodegradable mask material into the
desired shape. Leave approximately 1 cm of seam allowance around the edges. Design a
comfortable and ergonomic mask that fits snugly over the nose and mouth while allowing
for easy breathing. Consider factors such as material comfort, adjustable straps, and a
secure seal around the edges

3. Sew the Mask:

- Fold the fabric in half with the right sides facing inward.
- Sew along the curved edges, leaving the top edge open for filter insertion and the
bottom edge open for elastic band attachment.
- Turn the mask inside out to hide the seams.

4. Create Filter Pouches:

- Cut the rectangular piece of fabric into two equal-sized pieces.
- Fold each piece in half to create pouches within the mask.
- Sew the pouches onto the inside of the mask, leaving one side open for filter insertion.

5. Attach Elastic Bands:

- Sew the ends of the elastic bands to the sides of the mask, ensuring they are securely
attached.

6.Biochar Filter Integration

Develop replaceable filters using coconut biochar as the filtration medium. Cut sheets of
biochar into small pieces or pellets and encase them within a breathable filter material
such as non-woven fabric or mesh.

7. Insert Biochar Filters:

- Fill the filter pouches with prepared coconut biochar. Each pouch should contain
approximately 20-25 grams of biochar.

Integrate the biochar filters into the mask design, ensuring they cover the nose and
mouth area completely. Design a mechanism for easy replacement of filters, such as
Velcro attachments or snap buttons.

17
STEPS INVOLVED IN CREATING COCOCHAR FILTRATION MASKS

18
FUTURE SCOPE
- Uniqueness: This is an innovative use of coconut biochar in air filtration masks,
emphasizing its eco-friendliness and effectiveness.
- Impact: There is potential impact of the mask on environmental sustainability and
public health, particularly in areas with high air pollution levels.
- Feasibility: The feasibility of mass-producing the mask and making it accessible to a
wide range of users.

Observations
- The mask was comfortable to wear for extended periods, with minimal breathing
resistance.
- Replacement of biochar filters was straightforward and could be done as needed to
maintain filtration efficiency.
- Users reported noticeable improvements in air quality and respiratory comfort while
wearing the mask in polluted environments.

Conclusion
The Coconut Biochar-Based Air Filtration Mask offers an eco-friendly and sustainable
solution to air pollution problems. By utilizing coconut biochar as the filtration medium,
the mask provides effective protection against airborne pollutants while minimizing
environmental impact. Further optimization and refinement of the mask design could
enhance its performance and usability for widespread adoption.

Results and Discussion

The Coconut Biochar-Based Air Filtration Mask demonstrated efficient filtration of
airborne pollutants and particulate matter in laboratory tests. The biochar filters
effectively captured particles due to their adsorption properties, resulting in improved air
quality inside the mask. Real-world testing confirmed the mask's effectiveness in filtering
pollutants, providing users with clean and breathable air.

19
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We would like to convey our sincere gratitude and obligations to our honorable Principal
ma’am, Mrs. Sujata Sivakrishnan for her valuable support throughout the project. We
would also like to express out heartiest gratitude to our mentor, Mrs. Reena Manju for
guiding us and instructing us with encouragement throughout the project. We would like
to highlight the entire school faculty for allowing us the proper use of various laboratory
equipment in the biotechnology, biology and chemistry laboratories. We would like to
thank our parents for their great support and encouragement given during the completion
of the project.

Thanking all,
Fatema, Samiah and Chirayu

20
REFERENCES :

1. Hammad, Hafiz & Khaliq, Abdul & Abbas, Farhat & Fahad, Shah & Bakhat, Hafiz &
Farhad, Wajid & Jatoi, Wajid & Shah, Ghulam & Mubeen, Muhammad & Rind, Aslam.
(2020). Comparative effects of organic and inorganic fertilizers on soil organic carbon
and wheat productivity under arid region. Communications in Soil Science and Plant
Analysis.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/340999781_Comparative_effects_of_organic_a
nd_inorganic_fertilizers_on_soil_organic_carbon_and_wheat_productivity_under_arid_r
egion

2. Zhang X, Li J, Shao L, Qin F, Yang J, Gu H, Zhai P, Pan X. Effects of organic

fertilizers on yield, soil physico-chemical property, soil microbial community diversity
and structure of Brassica rapa var. Chinensis. Front Microbiol. 2023 May
31;14:1132853. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1132853. PMID: 37323918; PMCID:
PMC10266463.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10266463/

3. Basu, Barnali & Banik, Ajit. (2005). Production of protein rich organic fertilizer from
fish scale by a mutant Aspergillus niger AB100 __ A media optimization study. Journal
of scientific and industrial research. 64.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/238103790_Production_of_protein_rich_organi
c_fertilizer_from_fish_scale_by_a_mutant_Aspergillus_niger_AB100_A_media_optimiz
ation_study

4. IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science: The Application of

Eggshell and Fruit Peels as Soil Amendment on The Growth Performance and Yield of
Corn (Zea mays L.)
https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1755-
1315/1182/1/012040/pdf#:~:text=The%20study%20proved%20that%20food,essential%2
0nutrient%20for%20plant%20growth.

5. Growth, Yield Attributes and Yield of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.)

https://www.ijcmas.com/9-4-2020/J.%20K.%20Patil,%20et%20al.pdf

21
 INDIAN CENTRAL SCHOOL, KUWAIT

PROJECT REPORT

Enhancing Soil Nutrition: A Comparative Analysis on

the Effects of our 'FEB NutriBoost Organic Fertilizer V/S
Chemical Fertilizer

Team Members: Fatema, Chirayu , Samiah

Project Guide: Mrs. Reena Manju
 INDEX

S.No Contents Page

Number
1. Introduction 1
2. Objectives & 2
Hypothesis
3. Methodology 3

4. Experimental Procedure 4

5. Observations 5-12

6. Graphical 13
Representation
7. Results and 14
Discussion

8. Conclusion 14

9. Future Plans 15

10. Phase 2 – Cocochar 16-19

Filtration Masks
11. Acknowledgment 20

12. References 21