FACULTY OF ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY

UNIVERSITY TUN HUSSEIN ONN MALAYSIA (PAGOH CAMPUS)

SEMESTER I (2020/2021)

BNA41203
ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS

SECTION 1

SOIL SAMPLING

LECTURER : DR MIMI SULIZA BINTI MUHAMAD

GROUP :6

No. Name Matric No.

1 MAIMUNAH BINTI SHAHRULZAMAN AN170204

2 NORUL AHSANAH AULIA BINTI MOHAMAD MAHANI AN170023

3 NUR ELLIYANA AIMAN BINTI ABDUL WAHID AN170175

4 NURUL AIENNA BINTI ISMAIL AN170005

5 TAN WEE YEK AN170239

SUBMISSION DATE: 7th JANUARY 2021

 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS 2020/2021
BNA 41203

Project Assessment Rubrics

Faculty:

ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY

Programme:

BNA
 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS 2020/2021
BNA 41203

Course:

ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS

Code:

BNA 41203

GROUP MEMBERS:

1 MAIMUNAH BINTI SHAHRULZAMAN

Section : 1

2 NORUL AHSANAH AULIA BINTI MOHAMAD MAHANI

 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS 2020/2021
BNA 41203

3 NUR ELLIYANA AIMAN BINTI ABDUL WAHID

4 NURUL AIENNA BINTI ISMAIL

5 TAN WEE YEK

CLO 3:
 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS 2020/2021
BNA 41203

Adapt with the environmental data produced by different environmental sample sources and suitable
instrumentation analysis using appropriate statistical techniques and presenting the major findings in a
report form and/or oral presentation format, as appropriate (PLO4, P6)

Assessment

Criteria

Subcriteria

Level

Weight

Score

Project video

Perform field or lab work with correct procedure and equipment

Description of the field or lab work

P1

Lack of description

Minimum description

Average description

Good description

Excellent description

0.42

Show the correct measurement technique

P2

Incorrect and poor measurement skill

Correct but minimum measurement skill

Correct with average measurement skill

 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS 2020/2021
BNA 41203

Correct and good measurement skill

Excellent measurement skill

0.58

Discussion of the project content

Correct application of calculation & equations

P3

Incorrect calculation or equations

Minimum calculation and equations

Average calculation and equations

Good calculation and equations

Excellent calculation and equations

0.72

Display accurate data analysis & results

P4

Inaccurate data analysis and results

Minimum accuracy

Average accuracy

Good accuracy

Excellent accuracy

0.86

Show details discussion of the results

P5

Lack of discussions

Minimum discussions
 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS 2020/2021
BNA 41203

Average discussions

Good discussions

Excellent discussion

1.14

Adapt appropriate solutions related to the field or lab work

Adapt to the suitable analysis and techniques

P6

Lack of analysis and techniques

Minimum analysis and techniques

Average analysis and techniques

Good analysis and techniques

Excellent analysis and techniques

1.28

 Total

/25%

CLO 3: Adapt with the environmental data produced by different environmental sample sources and suitable instrumentation ana
techniques and presenting the major findings in a report form and/or oral presentation format, as appropriate (PLO4, P6)
Assessment Criteria Subcriteria Level 1 2 3 4
 
Lack and poor Minimum Average Good
Introduction of the project P1
introduction introduction introduction introduction
Ability to Lack of Minimum Average Good
introduce Explain the project P2
explanation explanation explanation explanation
and describe
the project Unable to Able to answer Able to answ
Able to answer
React in Q&A session P3 answer all some all questions
Project all questions
questions questions clearly
presentation
Lack and poor Minimum Average
Display content of project P4 Good conten
content content content
Ability to Demonstrate understanding Lack and poor Minimum Average Good
understand P5
of project understanding understanding understanding understandin
the project
Adapt to the correct skills
P6 Lack of skills Minimum skills Average skills Good skills
acquire from the project
 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS 2020/2021
BNA 41203

Project Assessment Rubrics

ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY
BNA
ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS
BNA 41203
GROUP MEMBERS: 1 MAIMUNAH BINTI SHAHRULZAMAN Section : 1
2 NORUL AHSANAH AULIA BINTI MOHAMAD MAHANI
3 NUR ELLIYANA AIMAN BINTI ABDUL WAHID
4 NURUL AIENNA BINTI ISMAIL
5 TAN WEE YEK

plement a correct working procedure and manage the environment sample analysis determination in a group effectively (PLO5, A5)
teria Subcriteria Level 1 2 3 4 5 W

Not follow the Minimum Average Excellent

Follow the format of report A1 Good formatting
given format formatting formatting formatting
Describe the project in Lack of Minimum Average Excellent
A1 Good description
introduction description description description description
Lack and poor Minimum Average Excellent
ility to Content of methodology A2 Good content
content content content content
anage and
alyze results Discussion related to Excellent
Lack of Minimum Average
produce a environmental sampling A2 Good discussions discussion and
discussions discussions discussions
port in group and analysis informative
Explain details of
Lack and poor Minimum Average Good Excellent
environmental sampling A3
explanation explanation explanation explanation explanation
and analysis
Lack and poor Minimum Average Good Excellent
Justify the results obtain A3
justification justification justification justification justification
ility to Relate technology in A4 Lack of relation Minimum Average Good relation Excellent
plement environmental sampling relation relation relation
rrect working and analysis
 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS 2020/2021
BNA 41203

Adhere to the correct Not follow the Minimum Average

Excellent
procedure in environmental A4 correct correct correct Good procedure
procedure
sampling procedure procedure procedure
ocedure in Wrong data Minimum Average data Good data Excellent data
Display correct data analysis A5
oup analysis data analysis analysis analysis analysis
Propose improvement to
Lack of Minimum Average Excellent
the environmental sampling A5 Good suggestion
suggestion suggestion suggestion suggestion
and analysis
 Total
 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS
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BNA41203
TABLE OF CONTENTS

NO CONTENTS PAGE

1.0 INTRODUCTION 1

1.2 Background of Study Area 2

1.3 Objective 3

1.4 Problem Statement 4

2.0 METHODOLOGY 4

2.1 Soil Sampling 4

2.1.1 Sampling procedure 6

2.1.2 Sample quality control 8

2.2 Soil Chemical and Physical Test 10

2.2.1 pH Test 10

2.2.2 Nitrate-Nitrogen Test (Nitrate Electrode Method) 10

2.2.3 Soil Organic Matter (Loss of Weight on Ignition) 11

2.2.4 Specific Gravity 12

3.0 RESULTS 13

3.1 pH Test 13

3.2 Nitrate-Nitrogen Test (Nitrate Electrode Method) 13

3.3 Soil Organic Matter (Loss of Weight on Ignition) 14

3.4 Specific Gravity 15

4.0 DISCUSSIONS 16

4.1 Data analysis 16

 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS
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4.2 Related technology in environment sampling and analysis 20

5.0 CONCLUSION 23

6.0 REFERENCES 25
 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS
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BNA41203

SOIL SAMPLING
Maimunah Shahrulzaman, Norul Ahsanah Aulia Mohamad Mahani, Nur Elliyana Aiman Abdul
Wahid, Nurul Aienna Ismail, Tan Wee Yek

Department Of Civil Engineering Technology,

Faculty of Engineering Technology,
Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, Hub Pendidikan Pagoh,
KM 1, Jalan Panchor, Pagoh,
84600 Muar, Johor, Malaysia.

1.0 INTRODUCTION
Soil sampling is used to evaluate whether soils are alkaline, acidic and have adequate and stable
levels of plant nutrients. This data can then be used to make recommendations of fertilizer, lime
or gypsum applications for the optimum plants growth. The quality of the information obtained
or the results collected during the study is substantially dependent on the quality of the samples
used. Data collected from a sample that is representative of the bulk sample can provide an
accurate representation of the material's composition. A sample that is non-representative of the
bulk material, on the other hand, will offer inaccurate results. Soil is an important factor which
determines a fishpond's productivity [1]. It has the ability to absorb and release the nutrients
needed for natural food organisms to grow. The quality of the plant water depends on the pond
bottom soil. To assess its suitability for aquaculture, the soil should be sampled and analyzed.
Soil sampling designed for laboratory analysis is carried out by taking a few small quantities
from a given field. The samples shall be sent to the laboratory center for the identification of the
soil type and quality and for the determination of the correct quantity of nutrients which may be
required for the favorable growth of the desired plant and animal species.
Soil sampling offers valuable knowledge within a specific block on the chemical and
nutrient properties of soil. Therefore, it will help in deciding the type and rate of fertilizer [2].
Any current or possible nutrient imbalances or deficiencies are often detected by soil sampling.
Soil analysis focuses on soil sampling to help farmers, extension officers, technicians, scientists,
students and others to obtain good soil samples of the land they are preparing to use for different
agricultural activities. Therefore, it is very important to have representative soil sampling
because the soil recommendations are focused on analytical data, which, as already stated,
depends on the quality of the samples sent for analysis. There are four important steps in the soil
testing process. Each of these steps needs to be carried out with care to ensure meaningful
results. Step 1 is sample collection forward to step 2 is sample analysis. Step 3 is interpretation
of results and calculation of nutrient inputs and step 4 is data application. The method and use of
soil testing has been generally accepted in agro-business by both farmers and industry over the
past five decades. The potential for increased yields and profits has been the obvious motivator
for the keen interest in soil testing. Soil analysis reports will generally provide appropriate

1
fertilizer application recommendations for nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and limestone. It also
can diagnose nutritional problems.
Soil testing also allows for determining the micronutrient requirements of crops.
Applying too little fertilizer might cause crop yields and returns will be lower. Too much
fertilizer will waste time and money and risk environmental damage due to nutrient runoff [3].
Consequently, soil testing provides a farm management tool with a potential benefit to the farmer
of increased yields, reduced operating costs and superior environmental risk management. Soil
sampling also saves dollars on fertilizer cost by only delivering what the plant needs. Additional
benefits include, improved crop maturity and quality, higher tolerance to disease and pest
damage, and increased growth. Soil testing is the best way to obtain a good estimate of the
limestone applications required for a crop. Plant tissue testing can also be a useful nutrient
management tool, however it tends to be a "postmortem" type of test and is generally of more
value in predicting the requirements of the next season's crop. Soil testing done in the spring or
fall before a crop is to be grown, makes it the best indicator of fertilizer requirements for that
crop season. Besides, soil sampling also monitors and forecasts possible future nutritional or
other issues (acidity, salinity). It also can maintain water quality and healthy soil properties.

1.1 Background of Study Area

Study area is one of the most important things in the project as it will affect a lot of results in the
end. The location chosen for the project is at the shared facilities area in Universiti Tun Hussein
Onn Malaysia (Pagoh Campus). The latitude and longitude of the study area is 2.148394 and
102.730756 respectively. It is an open space located behind the stadium. The area is about 100
m far from the oil palm plantation. The type of soil at the location is coarse soil. Coarse-grained
soil feels gritty when touched by hand and the moisture condition variation does not affect its
volume. Coarse-grained soil drains freely and it has good load-bearing qualities. Based on Figure
1.1 and 1.2, the study area has a mountain of unknown waste and it also has several unknown
plastic and metal barrels.

Figure 1.1: Location of study area

2
 Figure 1.2: Location of study area

1.2 Objectives
Objectives of this project are:
a) To determine the average nutrient status of soil
b) Determination of acidity, salinity and alkalinity problems
c) Recommendation of the required amount of fertilizers or lime based on soil test value.

1.3 Problem Statement

a. The selected area is relatively vacant open space
b. The area has a lot of unknown waste
c. There are several unknown plastic and metal barrels in the area

2.0 METHODOLOGY
2.1 Soil Sampling
The method of sampling specifies the way the sample units should be chosen. The option of the
method of sampling is determined by the research goals, the availability of economic means,
time restraints, and the existence of the problem to be studied [4].

i. Random sampling
Random sampling is the arbitrary selection of samples within the specified limits of the area of
concern. Using a random selection process, sample locations are selected. For areas where the
site is suspected of being homogeneous with regard to the parameters to be monitored, the
random sampling method is appropriate [5]. In addition to making probability or conviction

3
judgments about the sampling outcomes, randomization is required. A simple random sample
indicates that the chance of inclusion in the sample is equal in any case of the population [6].
Figure 2.1 below shows example of random sampling.

Figure 2.1: Random sampling

Point 1 Point 2

4
 Point 3
Figure 2.2: (a), (b), (c) The spot location of sample.

ii. Chemical Test

Using analytical instrumentation, chemical studies are usually conducted. In order to eliminate
unnecessary particles from the sample and to protect fragile instrumentation from potentially
harmful substances, filtration of water samples prior to analysis is good practise [7]. Moreover,
in order to evaluate, quantify and characterise chemical groups a chemical test is a qualitative
and quantitative process design. The chemical soil testing method are the soil pH test and the
nitrate-nitrogen test.

iii. Physical Test

A physical test is a qualitative or quantitative method in which one or more features of a
particular product, process or operation are determined in accordance with a prescribed
procedure. A physical test may be a soil texture test that will measure the percentage/proportion
of layers of sand, silt and clay that form the soil's solid inorganic phase. Physical test that were
carried out are soil organic matter and specific gravity.

2.1.1 Sampling Procedure

There are few strategy and technique for acquiring the sample of soil by referring to the objective
of sampling. The investigation of soil sampling and analysis might requires for the purposes of
engineering and agricultural [8]. All collection of the sample were representative of the area for
sampling.
The procedure of random sampling are chosen for the sample locations. There are 3
different spot were selected for sampling and site clearing are conducted by removing any
stones, litter or impurities on the surface. After clearing the surface, excavated to a depth of

5
15cm in the sampling spot by using proper soil sampling tools such as shovel and trowel [9].
Shovel is one of suitable sampling tools for shallow samples or soft surface soil. However, a
trowels with painted surfaces should be avoided to maintain the quality of collected sample [10].
Then, the soils were collected by using trowel into a tray as shown in Figure 2.3 and the samples
was mixed thoroughly to remove the foreign materials such as stones and roots. After that, the
samples were dividing into three equal parts before collect the sample polyethylene plastic
container [11]. Polyethylene plastic container are genuinely affordable, provide easy access for
adding and removing the samples [10]. Each polyethylene plastic container were labelled with
the required information by using waterproof ink as shown in Figure 2.4.

Figure 2.3: The sample of soil in tray.

Figure 2.4: The polyethylene plastic container with labelling.

Before sending the soil samples to the laboratories, the samples and labelling of container
were checked to ensure their uniformity. The samples were sieved above a 2 mm due to the most
logical size that includes all primary soil particles. By using 2 mm sieved soil as shown in Figure
6
2.5, it can ensure the homogenous and its representative of the soil samples [12]. Lastly, the
samples were dry in oven at 40ºC about one hour before starting the experiment.

Figure 2.5: Sieved soil by using 2 mm of sieve.

2.1.2 Sample Quality Control

Quality control defined as the undertaken of practical strategy in detecting, reducing and
correcting any errors or problems within laboratory experiment. It is one of process to
monitoring and maintaining the standard of laboratory. Thus, quality control can ensure the
consistency in obtaining results for an experiment and method.
The first quality control of sampling is filled the chain of custody (COCs) form which as
a tracking record the beginning of sample collection with the detailed documentation that
describe where the sample was received or collected as shown in Figure 2.6. The collection
method, preservation, storage and analysis are all part of the process used in producing the COCs
[10]. The container of sample were labelled with the date and time of collection, location and
type of sample as shown in Figure 2.4. Next, wears appropriate personal protective equipment
(PPE) such as gloves, mask, lab coats and shoes before starting the experiment. A proper PPE is
important to ensure in the minimization potential of skin exposure towards the hazardous
materials or chemicals. Lastly, all of the sampling equipment has been cleaning and drying
before start the experiment to remove any trace analytes and the cross contamination of samples.

7
 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS
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BNA41203

Figure 2.6: The form of Chain of Custody (COCs)

8
 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS
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BNA41203
2.2 Soil Chemical and Physical Test
2.2.1 pH Test
The pH test of soil is important for the chemistry and fertility of soils because it impacts the
accessibility of essential nutrients. If the pH reading below than 7 is acidic and above pH 7 is
alkaline while pH 7 shows a neutral soil.
A 5 g of soil sample was weighed into a bottle and 5 mL of distilled water was added into
the sample as shown in Figure 2.7. After mixed the sample, vigorously stirred it for 5 seconds
and let it left for 10 minutes before proceed to the next steps. After 10 minutes, the pH of soil
was measured by placed the electrodes of pH meter into the beaker and swirled it carefully.
However, the tips of the electrode cannot be in the overlying solution. The steps was repeated for
another two samples [13].

(a) (b)
Figure 2.7: (a) Weighed 5 g of soil sample and (b) Added 5 mL of distilled water.

2.2.2 Nitrate-Nitrogen Test

Nitrogen (N) is essential for the growth and development of plant and macronutrients. Both of
nirate (NO3) and ammonium (NH4) are inorganic nitrogen forms where it readily for use by
plants. However, the both forms can be transported from the site by runoff during rain and it
influences to the eutrophication to the surface water due to the excess growth of microorganisms
and algae [14].
A 20g of soil was weighed into a 100 mL cylindrical container and 50 mL of distilled
water as shown in Figure 2.8 (a) was added as extracting solution. The samples need to transfers
into a conical flask before ran the shaker process. Then, the sample were shakes by using
reciprocal shaker for 5 minutes as shown in Figure 2.8 (b). After that, the concentration of NO 3-

9
N was taken while the suspension was being stirred with magnetic stirrer. The concentration of
NO3-N was measured by using pH/ion meter [13].

(a) (b)
Figure 2.8: (a) 20 g of soil sample and 50 mL of distilled water and (b) Shaker process by using
reciprocal shaker.

2.2.3 Soil Organic Matter

There are variety of compounds in soil organic matter which contains of carbon, hydrogen and
oxygen. The compounds was different in their structure, age and the resistance to the
decomposition [15]. Soil organic matter is important in supplying nutrients, improves the
structure of soil and influencing to the exchange of cation capacity [16].
A 10 g of dried soil was weighed with the tarred crucibles as shown in Figure 2.9 (a).
Then, the sample of soil was dried in oven at 105ºC for 2 hours as shown in Figure 2.9 (b). After
that, the weight after drying was recorded and heat again at in furnace at 360ºC for 2 hours. After
2 hours, cooled the sample by air drying until the temperature reaches 150ºC. Lastly, the weight
of sample was weighed to calculate the percentage loss of weight on ignition [13].

10
 (a) (b)
Figure 2.9: (a) 10 g of soil weighed into crucibles and (b) Drying sample in oven.

2.2.4 Specific Gravity

Specific gravity defined as the ratio of solid soil mass to an equal volume of water mass. It is one
of important index property of soils which likely link with mineralogy or the composition of
chemical and it also reflect to the weather history. Besides, it also able to provide information
about the suitability of soil as a material for construction. The higher value of specific gravity,
indicates the strength for road and foundations.
A 10 g of dried sample were weighed into a container as shown in Figure 2.10 (b) and
transferred into a volumetric flask. Then, weighed the volumetric flask with a stopper and
recorded as m2. Next, distilled water was added into a required volume until exceed the soil in
volumetric flask and placed it into vacuumed desiccator about one hour to remove air. After that,
the volumetric flask was stirred and filled with distilled water until full and rest it for one hour.
After one hour, the volumetric flask was weighed and recorded the value as m 3. Lastly, the
volumetric flask was washed and filled it with distilled water until reach the stopper. The
volumetric flask filled with distilled water was recorded as m4 [17].

11
 (a) (b)
Figure 2.10: (a) Vacuumed desiccator and (b) 10 g of soil weighed into container.

3.0 RESULT
3.1 pH Test
Table 3.1: The data of pH test of soil sample
Soil sample pH reading
1 4.96
2 4.36
3 4.13
Average 4.48

3.2 Nitrate-Nitrogen Test

Table 3.2: The data of Nitrate-Nitrogen test of soil sample

Soil sample Nitrate-nitrogen reading (mV)

1 115.3
2 117.6
3 119.7
Average 117.53
3.3 Soil Organic Matter
Table 3.3: The obtained data of soil organic matter.

12
 No. Description Sample
1 2 3
1 Weight of Container, W c (g) 139.34 140.06 138.78

2 Weight of Container + Soil, 149.38 150.11 148.81

W s (g)
3 Weight of Container + 149.28 150.01 148.93
Dried Soil, W a (g)
4. Weight of Dried Soil(g) 9.94 9.92 9.89

Organic Matter (%)

5.
( W s −W c )−( W a−W c ) 0.001 0.001 0.001
¿
W s−W c

6. Average 0.001 %

Calculation
Table 3.4: The data of soil organic matter.
Description Soil Organic Matter Calculation
Formula
( W s −W c )−( W a−W c )
¿
W s−W c

Sample 1
(149.38−139.34 )−(149.28−139.34)
¿
149.38−139.34
= 0.001 %
Sample 2
(150.11−140.06 ) −(150.01−140.06)
¿
150.11−140.06
= 0.001%
Sample 3
(148.81−138.78 )−(148.93−138.78)
¿
148.81−138.78
=0.001%

3.4 Specific Gravity

13
 Table 3.5: The obtained data of specific gravity.
No. Description Soil sample
1 2 3
1 Mass of Volumetric flask, m 1 (g) 27.78 27.73 27.81

2 Mass of Volumetric Flask + Dry 36.35 36.13 36.47

Soil,m 2 (g)
3 Mass of Volumetric Flask + Soil 84.60 84.18 84.43
+ Distilled Water, m3 (g)
4. Mass of Volumetric Flask + 80.10 79.40 79.86
Distilled Water, m 4 (g)
5. Mass of Soil Sample, m 2−m 1 (g) 8.57 8.40 8.66
6. Mass of Water contained by 52.32 51.67 52.05
Volumetric Flask, m 4 −m 1 (g)
7. Mass of water occupying the 48.25 48.05 47.96
volume not occupied by the soil
and thus (m₃-m₂) (g)
8. Mass of water occupying a 4.07 3.62 4.09
volume equal to that of the soil
particles, (m 4 -m1 ¿ - (m3−m2) (g)
9. Specific Gravity, G s =¿
(m2−m1) 2.11 2.32 2.12
( m4−m1 ) −(m3−m2 )
10. Average Specific Gravity, G s
2.18

Calculation
Table 3.6: The data of specific gravity.
Description Specific Gravity,G s Calculation
Formula
(m2−m1 )
Gs =
( m4−m 1 )−(m3−m 2)

Sample 1
(36.35−27.78)
¿
( 80.10−27.78 ) −(84.60−3 6.35)

14
 8.40
¿
52.32−48.25
¿ 2.11

Sample 2
(36.13−27.73)
¿
(79.40−27.73 )−(84.18−36.13)
8.57
¿
52.05−48.05
¿ 2.32

Sample 3
(36.47−27.81)
¿
(79.86−27.81 )−(84.43−36.47)
8.66
51.67−47.96
¿ 2.12

4.0 DISCUSSION
4.1 Data Analysis
A soil test is important for several reasons: to optimize crop production, to protect the
environment from contamination by runoff and leaching of excess fertilizers, to aid in the
diagnosis of plant culture problems, to improve the nutritional balance of the growing media and
to save money and conserve energy by applying only the amount of fertilizer needed. Test that
are conducted in this study is pH, Nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N) test specific gravity, soil organic
matter (Loss in ignition).

i. Soil pH
Soil pH is essential for the chemistry and fertility of the soil. Researches has founded that
soil pH influences many biogeochemical processes. It affects the amount of nutrients and
chemicals that are soluble in soil water, therefore the amount of nutrients available to plants.
Some nutrients are more available under acid conditions while others are more available under
alkaline conditions. Soil pH is defined as a measure of acidity and alkalinity in soils. The pH
levels range from 0 to 14 meanwhile the optimal soil pH range usually between 5.5 and 7.0.
Also, soil pH is a measure of hydrogen ion activity in soil solution. Soil usually become acidic
when the basic elements such as calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium held by soil
colloids are replaced by hydrogen ion. There are few factors affecting the soil pH which is
rainfall, nitrogen fertilizers, plants and subsoil acidity. In this project finding, it is found that the
average pH reading obtained from the samples is 4.48, which is acidic and contain toxicities such
as Iron, Manganese and Aluminium. The reading of sample 1, sample 2 and sample 3 obtained

15
are 4.96, 4.36 and 4.13 respectively. The results obtained falls under the pH scale of strong
acidic soil which is toxic for the growth of most crops.
By observation, the selected site have less to no plants that grow upon it. It basically due
to its acidity of soil where it strongly affect soil functions and plant nutrients availability. Soil pH
affects nutrient availability because the H+ ions take up space on the negative charges along the
soil surface displacing nutrients [18]. The effect on nutrient availability depends on the size and
charge of the nutrient molecules and whether or not they can be lost to leaching. The metal
nutrients (such as copper [Cu], iron, manganese [Mn], zinc [Zn]) bind strongly to the surface of
soil particles. At high pH (basic, low H+ concentration), these metal ions stick so tightly they are
not readily found in soil solution and thus are less available for plant uptake. Meanwhile, at low
pH (acidic, high H+ concentration), fewer can stick to the soil surface, making them more
available for plant uptake. At pH less than 5.5, high concentrations of H +, aluminium and
manganese in soil solution can reach toxic levels and limit crop production. [18].

ii. Specific Gravity

Specific gravity of soil is defined as the ratio of density of soil solids to density of water. The
specific gravity of soil is a fundamental weight- volume property which will be used in
classification of soils and in finding other properties of soil such as void-ratio, porosity, degree
of saturation and unit weight. The specific gravity of soil particles will come within the range of
2.65 to 2.85. if the soils consist of porous and organic materials, a specific gravity value of less
than 2 will be obtained. A specific gravity value greater than 3 shown by soils that have heavy
substances (Neenu.A, 2018). In this study, the specific gravity reading, G s of the sample 1,
sample 2 and sample 3 are found to be 2.11, 2.32 and 2.12 respectively. Meanwhile for the
average reading is 2.18. The study obtained the reading of 2.18 which is organic soil by referring
to the Table 4.1.
Table 4.1 Typical values of specific gravity of soil, Gs (Bowles, 2012)
Type of Soil Gs value
Sand 2.65 – 2.67
Silty sand 2.67 – 2.70
Inorganic clay 2.70 – 2.80
Soils with mica or iron 2.75 – 3.00
Organic soils 1.00 – 2.60

GS is a significant parameter of soil mechanics since it can be associated with the soil’s
mineral composition and weathering. It is also used to derive several important soil parameters
such as the porosity, the dry and saturated density and the degree of saturation. These
measurements to perform important calculations that predict whether the soil at a site will be
stable enough to support a structure and allow proper drainage. Specific gravity is useful in soil
mineral classification, to give an example, the iron minerals that have larger value of specific
gravity than silicas. It gives an idea about the sustainability of the soil and construction material
as higher value of specific gravity gives more strength for roads and foundations. Also, it is used
in calculation of void ratio, porosity, degree of saturation and other soil parameters. Based on the

16
study, Roy and Dass found that the increase in specific gravity can increase the shear strength
resistance and have higher California bearing ratio. [19].

iii. Loss in Ignition

Loss on ignition (LOI) methods has long been used by soil testing laboratories to measure soil
organic matter and soil organic carbon with a suitable temperature of 350 and 400 °C. Soil
organic matter is the product of on-site biological decomposition which affects the chemical and
physical properties of the soil and its overall health. Its composition and breakdown rate affect
the the soil structure and porosity, water infiltration rate and moisture holding capacity of soils,
the diversity and biological activity of soil organisms, and plant nutrient availability. Soil organic
matter is important to soil fertility because of its role in maintaining soil structure, in retaining
water, and as a nutrient reserve and chemical buffer.
Soil Organic Matter is composed mainly of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen, and has small
amounts of other elements, such as nitrogen, phosphorous, sulfur, potassium, calcium and
magnesium contained in organic residues. It is divided into ‘living’ and ‘dead’ components and
can range from very recent inputs, such as stubble, to largely decayed materials that are
thousands of years old. About 10% of below-ground SOM, such as roots, fauna and
microorganisms, is ‘living’. Determining the quantity of organic matter in soils is necessary for a
variety of studies [20]. The readings obtained in sample 1, sample 2 and sample 3 is 0.001%,
0.001% and 0.001% respectively with an average of 0.001% soil organic matter. A productive
agricultural soil have between 3 and 6% organic matter. Which means the site has very low in
organic matter and is not productive enough to support the growth of crops.

iv. Nitrate-Nitrogen (No3-N) Test

The nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N) soil test implies the measurement of soluble nitrate ions in the soil.
It also implies testing subsoil samples because NO3-N accumulations at depths up to six feet are
available to crops. Crops obtain their required N from fertilizer N, inorganic N, and organic soil
N. Plants use nitrates as a supply of nitrogen, which is needed to make proteins for
healthy growth and absorb nitrates in water through their roots. Nitrates are present in high levels
in plant fertilisers. Without nitrates, the amount of chlorophyll in leaves reduces. In this nitrate-
nitrogen (NO3-N) soil test, the obtained average value in the experiment is 117.53 mV.
In areas where excess leaching (loss of water-soluble plant nutrient from soil) does not occur
NO3-N may build up in soils. Accumulations of NO3-N usually occur due to N fertilizer
carryover. The possibility of nitrate accumulations are high where most of the annual rainfall
occurs during the growing season and the rainfall amount is such that most of it is used by the
growing crop. Nitrate concentration in soil is a good indicator of available nitrogen to plants. A
level of 40 to 60 ppm is desirable for good yields of most crops. In the experiment conducted, the
soil nitrate ion is 1.3 ppm. Low level of nitrate ion were found at the site and it affect the growth
of crop as the amount of chlorophyll in the leaves reduces. This may turn the leaves of the grass
yellow or pale green colour reducing the plant ability to photosynthesize [21]. To increase the
nitrate amount, chemical such as natural fertilizer can be added to increase nitrate level in soil.

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Nitrate ion (mV to ppm)
1 mV =11.0−3 ppm
117.53 mV =1.30 ppm

4.2 Related Technology and Improvement for Environment Sampling and Analysis
In our project, we use ion selective electrode method as soil nitrate-nitrogen test. This method is
use because of simplicity and time saving. However, due to its simplicity the accuracy of the soil
nitrate is doubted. There are also many technology that can be used for determine the
concentration of nitrate nitrogen in the soil sample. First and foremost, the current soil nitrate
nitrogen test can be done by using microdialysis device. These technology is often combined
with high-throughput sequencing (HTS) of DNA to determine soil condition and microbial
function. The microdialysis device consists of two syringe infusion pump equipped with a total
of 7 syringe that responsible for providing the perfusate solution and each syringe was connected
to a microdialysis probe with a polyarylethersulfone membrane. The polyarylethersulfone
membrane is a high level thermoplastic that used to protect the probe from damaging. To
determine the concentration of organic and inorganic nitrogen, the probe were inserted vertically
to the soil sample and aqueous solution such as MiliQ water was use as a persufate flowing at
desirable rate to the tip of the inserted probe [22]. Microdialysis technology combined with HTS
could provide insights on remineralization of specific compound at particular depth of soil
sample and also can identified the soil condition that may cause ammonium availability in the
sample. Such technology have pro and con. The pro is the measurement of nitrogen is much
more accurate. However, the con is the measurement may require many trial and error to identify
the appropriate concentration of nitrogen [22]. Figure 4.1 shows the typical configuration of
microdialysis system.

Figure 4.1: Microdialysis System [23]

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 The pH of soil was determined by using the ion selective electrode in our project. This
method is use due to the simplicity and time saving for getting the data. As the name implies, ion
selective electrode method is meant by using the particular electrode for the purpose of
measuring the particular parameter of soil. However, this method has some disadvantage such as
time consuming for transportation of soil sample to the laboratory. Recently, the implementation
of Internet of Thing (IOT) and wireless sensor into soil testing system has been develop. The
concept is using the wireless network connecting with the sensor node that place on the specific
location. The user can monitoring the soil pH, moisture and temperature via computer or
smartphone with internet connection. Figure 4.2 shows the configuration of IOT with wireless
network sensor in an agricultural sector [24]. Other than that, the online crop management
system (OCMS) also providing the farm environment condition such as soil pH and nutrient. The
OCMS also help in maintaining the farm condition for the use of fertilizer for plant growth [24].

Figure 4.2: configuration of IOT with wireless network sensor in an agricultural sector [24]

Advanced technology and communication also allowing faster and stable transmission of
sensor data to the farmer. Due to this days and technology, the implementation of automatic
sensor for detection of nutrient content in the soil is one of the current technology for the soil
fertility improvement [22]. Furthermore, the development of automatic soil nutrient detection
combine with the fertilizer dispensary system is proven a more effective technology for the soil
fertility improvement [25]. The automatic soil nutrient detection and fertilizer dispenser consists
of the sensor system, container to store fertilizer and mixer. The nutrient sensor consists of LED

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(emitter), a photodiode and microcontroller. The principle is based on the colorimetry principle
which the colour intensity increase as the concentration of nutrient in the soil increase. Hence,
the colour sensor is used to identify the colour intensity and estimate the amount of nutrient in
the soil. On the other hand, the estimation of nutrient require sensor is controlled by the
algorithm as shown in the figure 4.3 [25].

Figure 4.3: Control algorithm for estimation of nitrogen and addition of urea.

Similar algorithm is also applied to other addition of fertilizer such as phosphorus. The
estimation of nutrient require is based on the colour intensity generated from the estimation of
nutrient sensor to control the opening time of valve for the dosage of nutrient to the soil. The
main advantage of this system is time saving for estimating nutrient and required dosage of
nutrient compare to the laboratory testing method and also reducing the manual labour required
[25].
Development of automatic soil sampling machine in one of the current technology for
soil sampling. The traditional method of soil sampling is often a challenging task which require
human to take the soil sample in a different random location. The overall process of traditional
soil sampling which include the paperwork for record the reading analysis is time consuming and
required more manual labour. Thus, development of automatic soil tester is more convenient as it
require no human. Furthermore, the automatic soil sampling machine is often combined with the
Global Positioning System (GPS) which has increase the efficiency of the soil sampling process
[26]. Figure 4.4 shows the development of Automatic Soil Sampling Machine

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 Figure 4.4: the development of Automatic Soil Sampling Machine

The main part of automatic soil sampling technology consists of GPS module, soil
sampling probe and a hydraulic control unit. The hydraulic control unit is responsible for
generate the force for the probe to penetrate the soil layer into specific depth. The sampling
probe is responsible for the collecting the portion of soil sample and keep the collected sample in
the soil box provided [27].

5.0 CONCLUSION
In conclusion, soil sampling is an inexpensive method to learn about the ability of soils such as
to support crop growth. The nutrients and chemical factors present in the soil can be provided by
a soil sampling to provide precisely which nutrients are lacking in order to develop a healthy
crop. It can focus the efforts in the right direction and manage people’s priorities. Soil sampling
is a valuable and relatively cheap management method for farmers to determine the amount of
crop nutrients in their fields, for example. Proper methods and timing of soil sampling help to
ensure the reliability of test results for making informed decisions related to soil inputs such as
lime and fertilizer. Taking a sample of the soil helps provide a clearer view of the state of the
ground. One of the major and vital reasons for taking soil samples is to determine which
fertilizers should be invested in. Based on the experimental results, the soil at the study area is an
organic soil. Due to its soil acidity, it is not ideal for plant growth because it strongly affects soil
functions and the quality of plant nutrients. Besides, the site has very low organic matter and is
not productive enough to support the growth of crops. In addition, low levels of nitrate ion were
found at the site and it affects the growth of crops as the amount of chlorophyll in the leaves
reduces. To increase the amount of nitrate, chemical substances such as natural fertilizer must be
inserted to increase the level of nitrate in the soil. As a result, information of each soil analysis
value will benefit many people to make more accurate input decisions to minimize risk and
maximize profitability.

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