Estudo do uso da massa capilar humana como componente agrícola

Abstract

The transformations caused by industrialization and globalization, combined with excessive consumption, have contributed to the current environmental deterioration. In this context, the search for sustainable solutions for solid waste management becomes urgent. This study investigated the feasibility of using human hair mass (HHM), generally discarded as waste, as an agricultural input. Composed of approximately 16% nitrogen (N), as well as carbon (C) and sulfur (S), HHM has agronomic potential. The use of HHM residue (HHM) as a fertilizer in three crop cycles and as a substrate component in one crop cycle was evaluated for radish (Raphanus sativus L.) varieties (Redondo Pequeno and Gigante Crimson). The HHM was characterized chemically and physically, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. N contents ranged from 10.83% (smoothed) to 15.46% (dyed). A minimum N content of 10% was adopted. Agronomic trials demonstrated that RMCH favors plant root and leaf development, outperforming the control and comparable to urea. Soil analyses revealed that RMCH increased the levels of phosphorus, sulfur, boron, organic carbon, and organic matter, while urea caused losses of C and S. As a substrate, RMCH demonstrated good moisture retention and stimulated initial seedling growth. It is concluded that RMCH has potential as a fertilizer and substrate component, promoting the circular economy by transforming human waste into an agricultural resource.