Optimization of keratin hydrolysis from sheep wool waste for enhanced crop performance: A sustainable approach in agriculture

Protein hydrolysates have emerged as potent enhancers of agricultural productivity, attributed to their nitrogen and amino acid richness. This study focuses on extracting keratin from sheep wool waste via water-based hydrolysis, aiming for eco-friendly alternatives to chemical methods. To refine this process, a novel response surface methodology integrating a Box-Behnken design (RSM-BBD) was devised, centering on temperature and hydrolysis time as pivotal factors affecting yield. Optimization yielded an impressive 99% w/v hydrolysis yield, with a fixed solid-liquid ratio (15:100 w/v) yielding 18.72 g/l of total nitrogen extraction. Analysis revealed a dominant presence of phenylalanine, noted for its role in plant water conservation. Agricultural trials demonstrated the hydrolysate's efficacy in enhancing maize crop physiology, evidenced by increased leaf surface area and fresh and dry plant weights across varied application rates. These results underscore the value of this innovative valorization process in agriculture. By harnessing keratin from sheep wool waste through water-based hydrolysis, the study proposes a sustainable alternative to traditional chemical techniques. The optimization of key parameters and subsequent positive impacts on maize crop physiology illustrate the potential of this approach to foster sustainable agricultural practices.