Application of IOT in Jatropha Carcus Vermicomposting to Bio Fertilisers

The increasing generation of Jatropha Curcas residues from biodiesel production presents both environmental and resource management challenges. This study investigated the application of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies in the vermicomposting of Jatropha Curcas biomass for production of nutrient-rich biofertiliser, vermicompost. An IoT-based monitoring system consisting of temperature, moisture and pH sensors connected to a wireless  data logger was used to continuously monitor the composting conditions and transmit real-time data to a mobile dashboard. Fresh Jatropha Curcas biomass was pre-treated and mixed with cow manure at a ratio of 70:30 before inoculation with Eisenia Fetida earthworms. Vermicomposting was carried out for 60 days under controlled conditions. The initial feedstock had a moisture content of 71.8%, pH of 6.2 and carbon-to-nitrogen ratio (C) of 31.4. IoT monitoring maintained optimum conditions, with temperature ranging from 22-28°C, moisture between 65-75% and pH between 6.8 and 7.5 throughout the process. At the end of the vermicomposting process, C ratio reduced to 14.8, organic carbon was reduced by 36%, while total nitrogen increased from 1.4% to 2.6%. Available phosphorus and potassium increased by 41% and 33%, respectively, indicating an improved bio fertiliser quality. Earthworm survival remained above 95%, demonstrating that the pre-treatment effectively reduced the toxicity of the biomass. The IoT system also reduced manual monitoring by approximately 70% while improving process consistency. The findings demonstrate that integrating IoT with vermicomposting offers an efficient and sustainable approach for converting Jatropha Curcas waste into valuable biofertiliser. This approach supports circular bioeconomy principles, improves waste valorisation and provides an environmentally friendly solution for sustainable agricultural production.