EVALUATING THE COMPOSITION OF PALM DREGS FOR USE AS AN ENHANCEMENT MATERIAL IN GROUNDING SYSTEMS

Abstract

This study introduces palm dregs, leftovers from the palm oil industry, as an alternative, nature-based supplement for electrical grounding applications. The investigation focuses on whether palm dregs can lower the resistance of surrounding soil and stabilize ground resistance over a long time. This potentially exceeds the performance of commonly used chemical enhancers while posing fewer environmental risks. Meanwhile, the organic and moisture-absorbing features of palm dregs help preserve higher soil conductivity even under varying climate conditions. Furthermore, utilizing palm dregs may reduce the likelihood of soil or water pollution that can happen with chemical additives. Results indicate that palm dregs offer equal or superior electrical performance, cost, and ecological benefits, including faster decomposition and reduced negative impact on local ecosystems. At the same time, these findings suggest that agricultural by-products can be transformed into beneficial materials for engineering tasks, which supports more responsible planning and operation of grounding structures in power networks. Overall, demonstrating that an abundant waste product can replace standard chemical enhancers also supports wider movements toward eco-friendly and durable infrastructure solutions.