GERALD ALMEYDA HERNANDEZ

Mr. GERALD ALMEYDA HERNANDEZ


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

1Year (2026-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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20 February 2026 in Biology and Life Sciences Forum
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Conference Paper
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MSMarilou Sarong
Marilou Sarong
PEPaul Jhon Eugenio
Paul Jhon Eugenio
GHGERALD ALMEYDA HERNANDEZ
GERALD ALMEYDA HERNANDEZ
FGFranz Marielle N. Garcia
Franz Marielle N. Garcia
AMARIEL GARCIA MACTAL
ARIEL GARCIA MACTAL
JMJuvy J. Monserate
Juvy J. Monserate
Ultramafic soils, particularly those affected by mining, often contain toxic nickel (Ni) levels that hinder plant growth and ecosystem recovery. This study assessed engineered biochar–nanocomposite amendments to improve vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides) growth, biomass, and Ni phytoextraction in Ni-rich ultramafic soils from Santa Cruz, Zambales, the Philippines. Seven samples were tested: T1—control (no application); T2—biochar; T3—nanocomposite; T4—biochar + nano-silica; T5—biochar + nano-calcium; T6—biochar + nano-chitosan; and T7—biochar + nanocomposite. Biochar combined with nano-silica (T4) significantly enhanced vetiver growth, producing the highest root, shoot, and total biomass (469.97 g plant−1), indicating improved plant tolerance under Ni stress. The highest shoot Ni concentration (24.52 mg kg−1) and translocation factor (0.56) were observed in the biochar + nano-chitosan treatment (T6), suggesting increased Ni bioavailability and uptake. However, translocation factor values remained below unity across all treatments, indicating limited Ni transfer from roots to shoots and a dominant phytostabilization behavior. Overall, nano-silica-engineered + biochar primarily enhanced biomass production, while nano-chitosan influenced Ni uptake dynamics, highlighting the potential of engineered biochar–nanomaterial amendments for sustainable rehabilitation of Ni-contaminated ultramafic soils.