Impact of Cement Contamination on Seed Germination, Early Seedling Growth, and Soil Microbial Communities in Wheat, Barley, Chickpea, and Groundnut
This study investigated the effect of cement contamination (0–5%) on seed germination, early seedling growth, and microbial associations in four crop species: wheat (Triticum aestivum), barley (Hordeum vulgare), chickpea (Cicer arietinum), and groundnut (Arachis hypogaea). Controlled experiments were conducted under water-based germination conditions, with observations recorded over three days. Results showed a clear concentration-dependent inhibition of germination and radicle elongation. In control treatments, seeds exhibited 70–100% germination with healthy radicle and shoot growth, while higher cement concentrations (>3%) drastically reduced germination, with complete suppression observed at 5%. Groundnut seeds were especially sensitive, showing strong inhibition even at 2–3%. Fungal contamination and seed darkening were frequently observed in cement-treated groups, suggesting toxicity and stress responses. These findings indicate that cement dust deposition in agricultural soils can significantly impair seedling establishment and may negatively affect crop productivity in areas surrounding cement industries.