Applied Chemical Engineering

The role of montmorillonite in sustainable agriculture and environmental sustainability: A critical review

Raad Farhan Shahad

Department of Soil and Water Resources Sciences, University of Al-Qadisiyah, Al-Diwaniyah, 58001, Iraq

Salah Mahdi Alibi

Department of Soil and Water Resources Sciences, University of Al-Qadisiyah, Al-Diwaniyah, 58001, Iraq

Esraa Assim Al-Jubouri

Department of Soil and Water Resources Sciences, University of Al-Qadisiyah, Al-Diwaniyah, 58001, Iraq

Hussein Abdul Hamid

Department of Soil and Water Resources Sciences, University of Al-Qadisiyah, Al-Diwaniyah, 58001, Iraq

DOI: https://doi.org/10.59429/ace.v9i2.5901

Keywords: montmorillonite; clay minerals; sustainable development goals; soil fertility; sustainable agriculture

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Abstract

This paper examines some of the properties and potential applications of montmorillonite, which is a type of clay in the smectite group, and its importance in achieving some of the Sustainable Development Goals. This paper points to some of the unique attributes that the mineral has, most of which lie in its capacity to retain water and provide essential nutrients, thus improving soil quality. Soilless growth media that contain montmorillonite can improve plant growth and make better use of resources. This study is specifically concerned with the application of montmorillonite for the development of sustainable agriculture and the preservation of the environment. It will look into the application of montmorillonite for agricultural purposes, water filtration, and the preservation of the ecosystem. This study will examine the characteristics and potential application of montmorillonite, a clay mineral belonging to the smectite group, and its contributions to the development of some of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It will be comprised of some information on the application of montmorillonite for agricultural purposes, water filtration, and environmental preservation techniques, as well as the exposure of the agricultural environment to montmorillonite. Moreover, this paper presents some of the benefits of montmorillonite and addresses the second goal of sustainable development, including poverty alleviation and food security improvement, which can benefit people worldwide.

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