Bioenzyme Application in Soil setting

 NEWSPCM  JULY 29, 2024 3 MIN READ 

Priti Rao, Founding President of Bioenzyme Entrepreneurs Academy of India (https://www.beacademy.in/) & S.K. Singh, ex-Scientist- DRDO and CEO of Gramin Samridhi Foundation (https://graminsamridhi.in/)

Soil stabilization is defined as a chemical, physical, biological, mechanical, or combined technique that maintains or improves the stability of weak soils to achieve engineering goals. In other words, Soil stability is the capacity of a land to limit the redistribution and loss of soil resources by wind and water. Soil Stabilization is the process of improving the engineering properties of the soil before construction. Stabilization is done to improve the strength of the soil and shrink/arrest the swelling potential, thus improving the load bearing capacity and the overall performance of the in-situ soils. There are three main categories of stabilization techniques: Mechanical stabilization; Physical stabilization; Chemical stabilization.

A solid foundation is critical for any type of construction. Unfortunately, not all jobsites are created equal. Whether due to natural soil compositions and/ or conditions or a preponderance of ground water that have seeped in over the years, some areas are not fully capable of supporting structures over the long term. Although they may look stable initially, over time the varying strength and durability of soils can lead to cracks and potholes developing in roadways. 

Conventionally  Physical and mechanical types of soil stabilization include five different types of techniques namely; compaction, pre-wetting, wetting-drying cycles, reinforcement and solid wastes. Mixing bitumen into the soil will make it more cohesive — meaning soil will stick together instead of moving around like dust. Additionally, bitumen soil stabilization reduces water absorption, meaning it can make the soil water-resistant or waterproof, depending on the ratios used.

In Soil stabilization the process generally involves mixing specially developed chemical reagents into the soil and mixing them together. Many of the most commonly used additives for this technique include quick lime, fly ash and cement. The purpose of adding these reagents is to change the chemical composition of the soil. This includes removing any excess moisture that may be contained within it and improving its structural integrity. What is left behind is something that will be a better subgrade for any construction that will be performed on it, providing a better platform for pavement or a building pad.

Projects that employ chemical soil stabilization receive numerous benefits through its application. First and foremost, the procedure results in greater structural integrity for the soil underneath the project. This reduces the risks of soil shifting or sinking after construction, which can lead to foundation failures and costly repairs to roadways. It also helps ensure that work can be completed faster and more efficiently, saving time and money for contractors.

Chemicals used in the soil stabilization process are not environment friendly and it can cause health related issues right from the preparation of these chemicals to their final applications. To avoid these hazardous effects,  Bioenzyms has come as a natural choice for soil stabilization with same or better efficacy. Bioenzymes help glue soil particles together, making the soil more solid and less likely to break apart. They help pack the soil particles tightly together, which makes the ground firmer and better at carrying heavy loads like cars and trucks.

The way Bioenzymes interact with the soil makes it tougher, so it doesn’t shift or erode easily. This is especially useful in preventing landslides and keeping the ground stable. These enzymes promote the growth of helpful microbes in the soil, which break down organic material and improve the overall quality and stability of the soil.  Bioenzymes are biodegradable and do not harm the environment, unlike some chemical soil stabilizers.

Gramin Samridhi Foundation along with Bioenzym Entrepreneurs Academy of India is working to solve the  soil stabilization problems through Bioenzym as engineering intervention for some of the real-life applications.

Priti Rao & S K Singh

Newspcm

• Bioenzym Application in Soil setting - (newspcm.com)

Bioremediation of water reservoir through Bioenzyme

 

Chemical free Cleaning of water reservoir through Bioenzym 

Priti Rao, Founding President of Bioenzym Entrepreneurs Academy  of India (https://www.beacademy.in/)

&

S.K. Singh, ex-Scientist, DRDO and CEO of Gramin Samridhi Foundation (https://graminsamridhi.in/)

Bio-enzymes have gained a lot of popularity in the recent years globally  as they are natural cleaning solutions that are produced by the fermentation of citrus fruits, jaggery and water. The natural solution comprises aerobic bacteria which produces enzymes to breakdown organic or inorganic wastes, stains, soils and malodors. During the process of fermentation, the bacteria break down the pollutant molecules into smaller degradable particles and finally get converted into carbonate and nitrate. 

Water Quality Test report (after bioremediation using Bioenzymes), showed 'considerable' improvement in the Overall Water Quality of the water reservoir. Bioenzymes help in breaking & digesting the floating organic matter - naturally, without affecting the ecological balance. Empirically the test reports after treating the stale water of lake with Bioenzym has been found encouraging substantiated by laboratory test reports on considerable improvement of various parameters.

Parameters of interest:

1. BOD (Biological Oxygen Demand) & COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand)

The Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) represents the amount of Dissolved Oxygen (DO) consumed by biological organisms when they decompose organic matter in water.  Thus Biochemical Oxygen Demand is defined as the amount of oxygen utilized by aerobic microorganisms to degrade the organic wastes present in the water.  Biochemical Oxygen Demand is important as it provides information on the biologically convertible proportion of the organic content of a sample of water.

The chemical oxygen demand (COD) is the amount of oxygen consumed when the water sample is chemically oxidised. Chemical oxygen demand, or COD, is the measure of the capacity of water to consume oxygen during the decomposition of organic matter in the water. In other words, it's the amount of oxygen that's needed to oxidise the organic matter present in a quantity of water.

2. Ammonical Nitrogen (NH3-N)

it is a hazardous component and a pollutant that can have detrimental effects on the environment and human health. Ammonical Nitrogen wastewater can lead to eutrophication, offensive odor, and increased difficulty and cost of water treatment. It is challenging to treat using conventional chemical methods. Ammonia is one of several forms of nitrogen that exist in aquatic environments. Unlike other forms of nitrogen, which can cause nutrient over-enrichment of a water body at elevated concentrations and indirect effects on aquatic life.  Ammonia is broken down to form nitrate or the non pollutant.  

Residual Free Chlorine

Residual chlorine is measured after the chlorine has done its job and is no longer available to kill bacteria and viruses. Free chlorine is measured before the chlorine has reacted with contaminants and is still available to kill bacteria and viruses.

3. Alkalanity (Calcium Carbonte)

Alkalinity is crucial for fish and aquatic life because it buffers and protects against sudden pH decreases. Aquatic organisms thrive best within specific pH ranges, and alkalinity helps maintain these stable conditions. Essentially, it measures how much acid can be added to the water without significantly altering its pH. High alkalinity does not necessarily mean bad water quality. Higher alkalinity levels in water generally mean it can tolerate more acid without changing the pH, while lower levels indicate that the waterbody is more likely to have changes in pH. Alkalinity is measured as the equivalent concentration of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) in a water sample.

4. Caliform Bacteria

Coliform bacteria are organisms present in the environment and in the feces of all warm-blooded animals and humans. Coliform bacteria will not likely cause illness. However, their presence in drinking water indicates that disease-causing organisms (pathogens) could be in the water system. 

The result of  cleaning a water reservoir in Bangalore  through Bioenzym is illustrated below how effective we can make use of Bioenzym for sustainability of water and indirectly it can have many benefits from health perspective of the living beings.

Parameters of Water Sample of the lake before and after treatment with Bioenzym:

Parameter	Count (Before)	Count  (After)	Count (After a year)	Unit	Acceptable limit*
BOD	8	6	2	mg/l	0
COD	140	129	8	mg/l	50
Residue Free Chlorine	<0.1	<0.5	1	mg/l	10
Ammoniacal Nitrogen  (NH3-N)	<5	<5	<0.1	mg/l	45
Alkalinity (Total as Calcium Carbonate)	410	285	194	mg/l	0.2
Caliform Bacteria	161	161	161	MPN/100ml	200

*Indian Standard Drinking Water Specifications 2012

 Bio-enzymatic cleaners encourage sustainable living and are safe for the environment. The micro-organisms can penetrate small crevices and cracks to eliminate stains which conventional chemical cleaners cannot. They are affordable in comparison to the toxic chemical cleaners that are available in the market. They encourage a zero waste lifestyle as it is a sustainable way to clean the home. The cleaners do not pollute the lakes and underground water.

Gramin Samridhi Foundation is working with Bioenym Academy to use Bioenzym as an engineering intervention to clean and recycle used water for reuse.

बायोएंजाइम्स का व्यापक उद्देश्य

 

बायोएंजाइम्स हमारे सफाई और कृषि के तरीके में क्रांति ला रहे हैं। ये जैविक समाधान, जो फल और सब्जियों के छिलकों को गुड़ और पानी के साथ किण्वित करके तैयार किए जाते हैं, न केवल पर्यावरण के अनुकूल हैं, बल्कि अत्यंत बहुमुखी भी हैं। इनका उपयोग उन लोगों द्वारा जो समझा गया है, उससे कहीं अधिक व्यापक है।

घर की सफाई और प्राकृतिक खाद्य उगाना

बायोएंजाइम्स घरेलू सफाई के लिए उत्कृष्ट हैं। ये रासायनिक क्लीनरों का एक प्राकृतिक, गैर-विषाक्त विकल्प प्रदान करते हैं, जो प्रभावी रूप से ग्रीस, गंदगी और बैक्टीरिया को तोड़ते हैं। इससे ये बच्चों और पालतू जानवरों के आसपास उपयोग के लिए सुरक्षित होते हैं, जिससे एक स्वस्थ जीवन पर्यावरण सुनिश्चित होता है।

कृषि में, बायोएंजाइम्स प्राकृतिक खाद्य उगाने में महत्वपूर्ण योगदान देते हैं। ये जैविक पदार्थों को पोषक तत्वों में तोड़कर मिट्टी की उर्वरता बढ़ाते हैं, जिसे पौधे आसानी से अवशोषित कर सकते हैं। इससे रासायनिक उर्वरकों और कीटनाशकों की आवश्यकता कम होती है, जिससे टिकाऊ कृषि पद्धतियाँ और स्वस्थ खाद्य उत्पादन बढ़ता है।

तात्कालिक लाभों से परे

बायोएंजाइम्स का प्रभाव पारंपरिक रूप से समझे गए से कहीं अधिक है। बायोएंजाइम एंटरप्रेन्योर एकेडमी ऑफ इंडिया (BEA) इस आंदोलन के अग्रणी हैं, जो बायोएंजाइम प्रक्रियाओं को अनुकूलित करने और उनके अनुप्रयोगों का विस्तार करने के लिए बौद्धिकों और शोधकर्ताओं के साथ काम कर रहे हैं।

पर्यावरणीय प्रभाव

• प्रदूषण उपचार: बायोएंजाइम्स का एक प्रमुख लाभ उनके प्रदूषकों का उपचार करने की क्षमता है। ये जल और मिट्टी में जैविक प्रदूषकों को तोड़ सकते हैं, जिससे ये कचरा प्रबंधन और पर्यावरणीय सफाई प्रयासों में मूल्यवान होते हैं।
• कचरे में कमी: बायोएंजाइम्स के उपयोग को बढ़ावा देकर, BEA जैविक कचरे को कम करने में मदद कर रहा है, जो अन्यथा लैंडफिल और ग्रीनहाउस गैस उत्सर्जन में योगदान देता है।

वैज्ञानिक सहयोग

BEA विशेषज्ञों के साथ बायोएंजाइम उत्पादन और अनुप्रयोग प्रक्रियाओं को परिष्कृत करने के लिए सहयोग करता है। यह सहयोग सुनिश्चित करता है कि सबसे प्रभावी तरीकों का उपयोग किया जाए, जिससे विभिन्न क्षेत्रों में बायोएंजाइम्स के लाभों को अधिकतम किया जा सके।

एक बड़ा उद्देश्य प्राप्त करना

बायोएंजाइम्स केवल घर की सफाई और प्राकृतिक खाद्य उगाने के बारे में नहीं हैं; ये अनुप्रयोग केवल एक बड़े उद्देश्य की प्राप्ति के साधन हैं। बायोएंजाइम्स का अंतिम उद्देश्य व्यापक पर्यावरणीय और सामाजिक लाभों को समेटे हुए है:

1. स्थिरता: रासायनिक क्लीनरों और उर्वरकों पर निर्भरता को कम करके स्थायी जीवन पद्धतियों को बढ़ावा देना।
2. पारिस्थितिकी तंत्र स्वास्थ्य: प्रदूषण को कम करके और प्राकृतिक प्रक्रियाओं का समर्थन करके पारिस्थितिक तंत्र के स्वास्थ्य को बढ़ाना।
3. समुदाय सशक्तिकरण: समुदायों को कचरा प्रभावी ढंग से प्रबंधित करने और कृषि उत्पादकता में सुधार करने के लिए ज्ञान और उपकरण प्रदान करके सशक्त बनाना।

कितने बायोएंजाइम पर्याप्त हैं?

प्रदूषकों के उपचार के लिए आवश्यक बायोएंजाइम की मात्रा को निर्धारित करना विशिष्ट प्रदूषकों और उनके उपचार के संदर्भ पर निर्भर करता है। सामान्यतः, बायोएंजाइम्स के घोल को सफाई या उपचार कार्य के आधार पर विभिन्न अनुपातों में पानी के साथ पतला किया जाता है। उदाहरण के लिए:

• घरेलू सफाई: एक सामान्य पतला अनुपात 1:20 (बायोएंजाइम: पानी) है।
• कृषि: मिट्टी के उपचार के लिए, पतला अनुपात मिट्टी की स्थिति और फसल के प्रकार पर निर्भर करता है, आमतौर पर 1:50 से 1:100 तक होता है।
• अपशिष्ट जल उपचार: सांद्रता प्रदूषकों के स्तर और पानी की मात्रा पर निर्भर करेगी। आमतौर पर, औद्योगिक अपशिष्ट उपचार के लिए उच्च सांद्रता की आवश्यकता होती है।

बायोएंजाइम्स की संभावनाएँ घरेलू सफाई और प्राकृतिक खाद्य उगाने से कहीं अधिक हैं। बायोएंजाइम एंटरप्रेन्योर एकेडमी ऑफ इंडिया जैसे संगठन इस दिशा में नेतृत्व कर रहे हैं, पर्यावरण संरक्षण और प्रदूषण उपचार में बायोएंजाइम्स के व्यापक अनुप्रयोगों को स्पष्ट कर रहे हैं। प्रक्रियाओं को अनुकूलित करके और बौद्धिकों के साथ सहयोग करके, BEA यह सुनिश्चित कर रहा है कि विभिन्न क्षेत्रों में बायोएंजाइम्स का प्रभावी और कुशलतापूर्वक उपयोग किया जा सके, अंततः एक स्वच्छ, स्वस्थ ग्रह में योगदान करते हुए।

बायोएंजाइम्स और उनके अनुप्रयोगों पर अधिक जानकारी के लिए, आप इन संसाधनों का संदर्भ ले सकते हैं:

• EcoEnzyme
• The Better India: Benefits of Bioenzymes

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यह ब्लॉग पोस्ट एक स्थायी भविष्य बनाने में बायोएंजाइम्स की महत्वपूर्ण और विस्तारित भूमिका को उजागर करने का प्रयास करता है।

The Larger Purpose of Bioenzymes

Bioenzymes are revolutionizing the way we approach cleaning and agriculture. These organic solutions, derived from fermenting fruit and vegetable peels with jaggery and water, are not only eco-friendly but also incredibly versatile. Their uses extend far beyond what many initially perceive.

Home Cleaning and Natural Food Growth

Bioenzymes are excellent for household cleaning. They offer a natural, non-toxic alternative to chemical cleaners, effectively breaking down grease, grime, and bacteria. This makes them safe for use around children and pets, ensuring a healthier living environment.

In agriculture, bioenzymes contribute significantly to growing natural food. They enhance soil fertility by breaking down organic matter into nutrients that plants can easily absorb. This reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides, promoting sustainable farming practices and healthier food production.

Beyond the Immediate Benefits

The impact of bioenzymes is larger than what has been traditionally understood. The Bioenzyme Entrepreneurs Academy of India (BEA) is at the forefront of this movement, working with intellectuals and researchers to optimize bioenzyme processes and expand their applications.

Environmental Impact

• Pollution Treatment: One of the most significant benefits of bioenzymes is their ability to treat pollutants. They can break down organic pollutants in water and soil, making them valuable in waste management and environmental cleanup efforts.
• Waste Reduction: By promoting the use of bioenzymes, BEA is helping to reduce organic waste, which otherwise contributes to landfill mass and greenhouse gas emissions.

Scientific Collaboration

BEA collaborates with experts to refine bioenzyme production and application processes. This collaboration ensures that the most effective methods are used, maximizing the benefits of bioenzymes in various sectors.

Achieving a Greater Purpose

Bioenzymes are not just about cleaning homes and growing natural food; these applications are merely the means to a larger end. The ultimate purpose of bioenzymes encompasses broader environmental and societal benefits:

1. Sustainability: Promoting sustainable living practices by reducing reliance on chemical cleaners and fertilizers.
2. Ecosystem Health: Enhancing the health of ecosystems by reducing pollution and supporting natural processes.
3. Community Empowerment: Empowering communities with knowledge and tools to manage waste effectively and improve agricultural productivity.

How Much Bioenzyme is Sufficient?

Determining the amount of bioenzyme required to treat pollutants depends on the specific pollutants and the context in which they are being treated. Generally, a solution of bioenzymes is diluted with water in various ratios depending on the cleaning or treatment task at hand. For instance:

• Household Cleaning: A common dilution ratio is 1:20 (bioenzyme: water).
• Agriculture: For soil treatment, the dilution ratio might vary based on soil condition and crop type, often ranging from 1:50 to 1:100.
• Wastewater Treatment: The concentration will depend on the level of pollutants and the volume of water. Typically, higher concentrations are required for industrial effluent treatment.

The potential of bioenzymes goes far beyond cleaning and natural food growth. With organizations like the Bioenzyme Entrepreneurs Academy of India leading the charge, the broader applications of bioenzymes in environmental conservation and pollution treatment are becoming more apparent. By optimizing processes and collaborating with institutions, BEA is ensuring that bioenzymes can be used effectively and efficiently across various fields, ultimately contributing to a cleaner, healthier planet.

For further information on bioenzymes and their applications, you can refer to resources like:

• EcoEnzyme
• The Better India: Benefits of Bioenzymes

Bioenzyme and Water Restoration: A Scientific Intervention Webinar

 

On July 6th, 2024, the Bioenzyme Entrepreneurs Academy of India hosted an insightful webinar titled "Bioenzyme and Water Restoration - A Scientific Intervention." The event brought together students, researchers, and eco-enthusiasts to explore the potential of bioenzymes in environmental restoration. With a participation of 100 attendees from various colleges and universities across India, the webinar highlighted the synergistic efforts required between science, government, corporate sectors, and the public for successful water restoration projects.

Guest Speakers

The webinar featured two distinguished guest speakers:

Dr. Joean Oon Dr. Joean Oon shared her extensive experience in river restoration, drawing on successful projects in Taiwan, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Her presentation illustrated how collaborative efforts between citizens, government, and corporate entities can lead to significant environmental improvements. Dr. Oon emphasized the importance of community involvement and public awareness in driving such initiatives, recounting how grassroots movements can create lasting environmental impact.

Dr. Yong Ee Ling Dr. Yong Ee Ling, from the Department of Water and Environmental Engineering at University Teknologi Malaysia, delved into the scientific aspects of bioenzyme application in water treatment. Her research underscores the efficacy of bioenzymes in improving water quality through natural, sustainable methods. Dr. Yong explained the biochemical processes involved, providing a scientific foundation for the use of bioenzymes in ecological restoration.

Highlights of the Webinar

Dr. Joean Oon's Insights

Dr. Oon began by recounting her pioneering work in Taiwan, where a citizen-led movement, supported by the government and private sector, transformed polluted rivers into thriving ecosystems. She detailed the step-by-step process of engaging various stakeholders, securing funding, and executing the restoration projects. Her experiences in Indonesia and Malaysia, under the guidance of Dr. Rosukon, further demonstrated the adaptability and effectiveness of bioenzymes in diverse environmental conditions.

Dr. Yong Ee Ling's Scientific Approach

Dr. Yong's presentation provided a deep dive into the science behind bioenzymes. She explained how bioenzymes, created from kitchen waste, brown sugar, and water, facilitate the breakdown of pollutants and improve water quality. Dr. Yong highlighted case studies from Malaysia, where bioenzyme treatments significantly reduced chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and ammonia levels in polluted water bodies.

Engaging the Next Generation

With 100 participants from different academic institutions, the webinar served as a platform to inspire the next generation of environmental scientists and activists. The lively Q&A sessions allowed students to interact directly with the experts, gaining insights into the practical and scientific challenges of water restoration projects.

A Milestone for the Managing Committee

This webinar was the first event organized by the newly elected managing committee of the Bioenzyme Entrepreneurs Academy of India. From designing the flyer to inviting and engaging participants, both on-screen and off-screen, the entire team executed their roles with exceptional professionalism. Their meticulous planning and dedication ensured the event's success, earning them well-deserved applause and appreciation.

Conclusion

The "Bioenzyme and Water Restoration - A Scientific Intervention" webinar was a resounding success, fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration among participants. The event highlighted the critical role of science in environmental restoration and underscored the importance of community involvement. As Dr. Oon and Dr. Yong eloquently demonstrated, the combined efforts of citizens, scientists, and stakeholders can lead to significant, sustainable improvements in water quality.

As we move forward, it is imperative to continue these conversations, promote scientific research, and support grassroots initiatives. Together, we can pave the way for a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations.