PHYSICAL CHARACTERISsTICS OF LOCAL BIOMASS MATERIALS SELECTED FOR USE AS BASE MATERIALS FOR HYDROPONIC FODDER PRODUCTION

Abstract

The selection of effective base materials is crucial for hydroponic fodder production, as these materials directly influence plant growth, water retention, and nutrient absorption. This study evaluated the physical characteristics of three locally sourced biomass materials—Banana Pseudo-Stem (BPS), Dry Banana Leaves (DBL), and Rice Hulls (RHL)—to assess their suitability as growing media. Parameters such as water holding capacity (WHC), bulk density (BD), specific gravity (SPG), oil absorption capacity (OAC), swelling capacity (SWC), and wettability were analyzed using standardized methods. The results revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) among the materials. BPS demonstrated the highest WHC (620.83%) and OAC (378.37%), making it highly effective for moisture and nutrient retention. DBL recorded the best SWC (799.10%) and wettability (492.00%), likely due to its cellulose-rich structure, enhancing its hydrophilicity and ability to swell in aqueous environments. In contrast, RHL exhibited the highest BD (0.52 g/ml) and SPG (0.55), indicating compactness but limited effectiveness in water retention and absorption. These findings align with previous studies emphasizing the importance of physical characteristics in determining the efficiency of hydroponic media. While BPS and DBL offer high potential for hydroponic systems, the lower air porosity associated with high WHC may impact root respiration, necessitating careful application. Conversely, the compact nature of RHL makes it more suitable for structural support.