Assessing the purity and fertilizing potential of struvite derived from domestic wastewater using dolomite rock as a magnesium source

The fertilizing efficiency of struvite recovered from domestic wastewater by using dolomite rock as a magnesium source was assessed in a pot experiment. The objective of this study was to ascertain the ideal dosage and a sustainable fertilizer efficacy of the recovered struvite. The resulting product was brownish in color and chemically different from pure struvite; it had 1.01% nitrogen, 2.66% phosphorus, 0.06% potassium, 2.58% magnesium, and a high 11.77% calcium content, indicating considerable calcium co-precipitation that impacted the purity of the product. To measure the growth response based on stem height, stem circumference, leaf number, leaf width, and dry biomass, maize plants were fed with different doses of struvite (8, 12, 16, and 20 g). According to the findings, an 8 g dose considerably increased plant growth, surpassing larger doses and exhibiting a plateau effect. The recovered struvite, in spite of its impure state, turned out to be a viable and efficient substitute for traditional fertilizers. This study emphasizes how nutrient recovery from wastewater can help promote environmentally friendly agricultural practices.