Determining the amount of nutrients and pH of soil in maize growing areas using the X-ray fluorescence technique

Abstract

This study determined the amount of nutrients and pH of soil in maize growing areas using the X-ray fluorescence technique. The results showed that the total elemental concentrations varied among the three fields, with nine elements detected: Si, Fe, Ca, Ti, Rh, Mn, Cl, K, and Zr. The macronutrients were present in very low concentrations. The soil pH values ranged from 7.02 to 7.34, indicating slightly acidic to moderately alkaline conditions, which is consistent with the characteristics of the Lopburi soil series. The potassium concentrations measured by the Kasetsart University soil test kit and XRF showed a similar trend. Areas with moderate potassium levels had a concentration less than 0.51%, while areas with high potassium levels had a concentration more than 0.76%. Silicon was the most abundant element in the soil.