Soil Physics Analysis of pH and Water Retention Capacity in Productive Paddy Fields and Soils Degraded by Waste-Burning Residues

Hanna Aulia Siregar Hanna Aulia Siregar; Insya Widiya Agustini Insya Widiya Agustini; Khairiah Khairiah; MM Awang Kechik MM Awang Kechik

doi:10.22373/p-jpft.v12i2.34302

Authors

Hanna Aulia Siregar Universitas Muslim Nusantara Al Washliyah, Indonesia
Insya Widiya Agustini Universitas Muslim Nusantara Al Washliyah, Indonesia
Khairiah Khairiah Universitas Muslim Nusantara Al Washliyah, Indonesia
MM Awang Kechik Universiti Putra Malaysia, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22373/p-jpft.v12i2.34302

Keywords:

soil physics, soil pH, water retention capacity, porosity, waste-burning residues, paddy field soil

Abstract

This study investigated the differences in soil pH and water retention capacity between productive paddy soil and soil degraded by waste combustion residues from a soil physics perspective. The waste combustion soil used was household waste combustion soil containing organic and inorganic waste. Combustion residues can alter the physicochemical properties of the soil, particularly porosity, capillarity, and moisture dynamics, which affect soil water retention behavior. A comparative quantitative approach was used by collecting soil samples at a depth of 0–20 cm from two different locations. Soil pH was measured using a digital pH meter, while water retention capacity was analyzed using standard laboratory procedures. The results showed that the productive paddy soil exhibited a pH close to neutral (6.8), higher porosity, stronger capillary action, and high water retention capacity (90%). In contrast, the degraded soil exhibited alkaline conditions (pH 8.7), reduced pore connectivity, impaired moisture dynamics, and lower water retention capacity (60%). These findings suggest that waste combustion residues negatively impact soil structure and water retention mechanisms. Therefore, appropriate waste management and soil rehabilitation strategies are needed to restore soil function and agricultural productivity.

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