Performance Evaluation of Microbiologically Degraded Paint Sludge Compost for Application to Non-Edible Plants

Abstract

A typical automotive industry paint sludge was composted with rice bran and EM bacteria. The compost was analysed for nitrogen, oxygen, carbon, phosphorous, etc. and toxic metals. The compost was mixed with soil in 1:16 ratio and used for growing Neem, Madhuka and Pongamia in pots and in the field. The plant growth was monitored regularly and it was established that the compost treated plants showed a robust growth. Presence of insects, ants and pupae etc., were noticed on the plants. Lead, zinc other toxic metals were analysed in the soil, compost, roots, stem and leaves once every month. Typical transport ratios for toxic element pick up, absorption and translocation for several elements have been established.