Influence of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) Molasses (SOM) on Aerobic Compost Quality Using an Integrated Soil Sensor

Physico-biochemical conditions and nutrient composition are important considerations in evaluating aerobic compost. This study investigated the influence of sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) molasses (SOM) on the physico-biochemical properties of aerobic compost using an integrated soil sensor. A quantitative experimental design was employed with an SOM-treated experimental group and an untreated control group, each comprising five independent compost samples (n = 5). The pH, moisture content, temperature, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) were monitored over a 14-day composting period, with Day 14 designated as the sampling endpoint for statistical comparison. The Mann–Whitney U test showed no significant differences between groups in pH (U = 3, p = .056), moisture content (U = 12, p = 1.000), and temperature (U = 3, p = .056). Significant differences were observed in N, P, and K (all U = 0, p = .008), with higher mean concentrations in the SOM-treated group. Effect-size analysis indicated complete separation of the observed N, P, and K values between groups (rrb = 1.00). At Day 14, mean N, P, and K concentrations were 278.40, 744.20, and 705.20 mg/kg, respectively, in the SOM-treated group, compared with 139.00, 208.00, and 188.80 mg/kg in the control group. Overall, SOM treatment primarily influenced the measured nutrient parameters under the conditions of this study. Further studies with longer composting periods, laboratory validation of sensor measurements, microbial and maturity indicators, and larger independent samples are recommended.

sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) molasses (SOM), aerobic compost

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