Evaluation of the potential use of biosolids in corn crop in the munic-ipality of Puebla, Mexico

Purpose Due to the urgent need for sustainable agro-industrial waste management, a field experiment was con-ducted to evaluate the application of biosolids as organic fertilizer in a corn cultivation crop. The study aimed to measure metals concentrations and assess enrichment factor (EF) in soil and corn plants as they are important factors to consider in order to achieve food security. Method Four sites where biosolids are applied were studied and compared against a control. Physicochemical properties of soils and heavy metal contents were evaluated after one year of application of biosolids. Metal concentrations, average kernel yield and biomass were measured in corn plants. Results The results demonstrated that the application of biosolids increased the content of organic matter, nitro-gen, phosphorus, and exchangeable bases in the soil. Additionally, the concentration of heavy metals in soils with biosolids was higher than in soils without treatment, and the concentration of heavy metals in the corn kernels did not exceed the maximum recommended limits. However, EF values showed a considerable contam-ination level due to the accumulation of metals. Conclusion Some of the soil physical and chemical characteristics were improved by incorporating biosolids, but the metal content in the soil increased as well. Also, the application of biosolids increased the plant height and corn yield. Therefore, biosolids can be used as organic fertilizer sources; however, it is necessary to carry out periodic evaluations to ensure low levels of enrichment in crops and soil, thus guaranteeing the safety of biosolids as soil fertilizers.