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Showing papers in "Soil Science in 2018"


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the issue of the admixtures' effect on results of granulometric composition determinations by Casagrande's areometric method in modification by Proszynski was discussed, and a practical conclusion from the research is the determination of the threshold of the organic matter and carbonates percent content at which the determination should be absolutely preceded by processes of mineralisation and decalcification.
Abstract: The paper discusses the issue of the admixtures’ effect on results of granulometric composition determinations by Casagrande’s areometric method in modification by Proszynski. An experiment was conducted involving preparation of samples with known granulometric composition and determination of their composition by means of the aerometric method. Three types of samples were prepared: base (control), containing organic matter, and containing carbonates. Results of the determinations showed a considerable effect of the admixture of organic matter and calcium carbonate on the accordance of determinations, depending on their percent content. The study results also confirmed known dependencies of disturbances in proportions between the sandy and silty-clayey fraction. A practical conclusion from the research is the determination of the threshold of the organic matter and carbonates percent content at which the determination should be absolutely preceded by processes of mineralisation and decalcification.

21 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors proposed to replace the base saturation with pHw (measured in distilled/deionized water suspension) in the classification criteria for diagnostic horizons and soil units/subunits, both in the Polish Soil Classification and FAO-WRB.
Abstract: Taking into account the fact that (a) measurement of the cation exchange capacity and base saturation is practically unavailable in the field, that formally makes impossible the reliable field classification of many soils, (b) base saturation is measured or calculated by various methods those results significantly differ, (c) base saturation and soil pH are highly positively correlated, it is suggested to replace the base saturation with pHw (measured in distilled/deionized water suspension) in the classification criteria for diagnostic horizons and soil units/subunits, both in the Polish Soil Classification and FAO-WRB. Based on statistical analysis of 4500 soil samples, the following pHw values are recommended instead of 50% base saturation: pHw <5.5 for umbric and pHw ≥5.5 for the mollic horizon, and for Chernozems, Kastanozems, Phaeozems (directly) and Umbrisols (indirectly). Furthermore, the pHw <4.7 may feature the Dystric qualifier in mineral soils and respective Reference Soil Groups of WRB; while the pHw ≥4.7 may feature the Eutric qualifier. The distinction between subtypes of the brown soils in the Polish Soil Classification may base on the pHw 4.7 or 5.0, but using different requirements of pH distribution in the depth control section. The replacement of the base saturation with pH refers to the formal soil classification only, and does not exclude the use of base saturation for professional soil characteristics.

19 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the results of grain size distribution measurement by an innovative dynamometer method, developed by the authors, with results obtained by the pipette and hydrometer methods were compared using ordinary linear regression and additionally in the repeatability analysis by reduced major axis regression.
Abstract: Abstract The aim of the presented work was to compare the results of grain size distribution measurement by an innovative dynamometer method, developed by the authors, with results obtained by the pipette and hydrometer methods. Repeatability of results obtained in the dynamometer method was also determined. The content of three fractions with equivalent diameters <0.002 mm, 0.002–0.063 mm and 0.063–2.0 mm was measured. The results were compared using ordinary linear regression and additionally in the repeatability analysis by RMA (reduced major axis regression). It was found that the proposed dynamometer method is characterized by good result repeatability with no systematic errors when compared with the pipette method. The RMSE (root mean square error) value when referring to the pipette method calculated for the three fractions considered in total was 4.9096 and was lower than the analogous for the hydrometer method, which amounted to 5.4577. Values of determination coefficients in the comparison of dynamometer method and pipette method are within the range of 0.9681–0.9951 for the different fractions. It was found that slightly larger differences in relation to the pipette method occurred for the fractions <0.002 mm and 0.002–0.063 mm, and smaller for the fraction 0.063–2.0 mm. Similarly, greater differences between repetitions in the dynamometer method were observed for the fraction <0.002 mm, and smaller for the 0.063–2.0 mm fraction. Possible sources of errors in the dynamometer method were discussed, as were proposals for their reduction.

19 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors evaluated the variability of Pb bioaccessibility in urban garden soils and how it is affected by phosphate, organic content, soil pH and soil mineral species.
Abstract: ABSTRACT The aim of this research was to evaluate the variability of Pb bioaccessibility in urban garden soils and how it is affected by phosphate, organic content, soil pH and soil mineral species. The bioaccessibility of Pb in 49 soil samples was assessed using the U.S. EPA method 1340 (extraction with a simulated gastric acid at pH 1.5) and a modified protocol (same solution, but at pH 2.5). Overall, bioaccessibility values were highly variable (14%–86% at pH 1.5 and 14%–73% at pH 2.5), reflecting the heterogeneous nature of urban soils and the influence of soil mineralogy and other factors on the stability and leachability of Pb. There was a negative relationship between phosphate and Pb bioaccessibility, but this was only observed when the modified protocol was used. Organic content also had a negative relationship with Pb bioaccessibility. Principal component analysis based on leaching solution chemistry (proxy to mineral speciation) suggested that carbonate and Fe/Mn hydroxide effects on Pb bioaccessibility are not as significant as phosphate and organic matter. These findings not only confirm the value of applying phosphorus and organic amendments to reduce Pb bioaccessibility in urban garden soils, but also highlight the complexity of the factors controlling health risks to gardeners.

17 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the long-term impacts of biosolids recycling to agricultural land on soil quality and fertility were assessed using established experimental platforms at four sites in England with contrasting soil types and agroclimatic conditions.
Abstract: Biosolids are an important potential source of plant-available nutrients and also contain valuable quantities of stable organic matter, which can provide long-term benefits to soil structure and fertility. In this study, the long-term impacts of biosolids recycling to agricultural land on soil quality and fertility were assessed using established experimental platforms at four sites in England with contrasting soil types and agroclimatic conditions. At each site, treatment plots that had received 20 annual additions of biosolids (i.e., three types of digested sludge cake) at rates of 2.9 to 3.4 t ha−1 y−1 since 1994 were used in comparison with an untreated control treatment (which had received inorganic fertilizers only) to quantify the effects of biosolids on soil physical, chemical, and biological properties. Significant increases (P < 0.05) in soil organic matter (SOM) of 10% to 17% and in “light fraction” SOM (up to 2.9 mg kg−1 on the biosolids treatment compared with 1.8 mg kg−1 on the untreated control), along with a significant (P < 0.01) increase of up to 10% in available water capacity and numerical increases in water infiltration rate and aggregate stability, were found in plots that received biosolids. These plots also had significant (P < 0.05) increases of up to 20%, 48%, and 30% in soil total nitrogen, extractable phosphorus, and total sulfur, respectively. Earthworm numbers and weights were approximately doubled relative to the untreated control (P < 0.05) where low-metal biosolids had been applied. These results indicate that applying biosolids to agricultural land is an important means of replenishing and maintaining SOM levels. Importantly, no adverse effects on crop quality were observed. The results from this study provided valuable evidence toward maintaining a sustainable agricultural landbank for biosolids recycling in the United Kingdom.

15 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the first indicators of pedogenesis of the studied technogenic soils within the first 30 years of formation are: (1) changes of consistence of ash material from firm to friable/very friable due to root action, (2) accumulation of soil organic matter in the topsoil and formation of O and A horizons, (3) decrease of pH, (4) formation of pedogenic carbonates in soils and (5) decrease in soil salinity.
Abstract: Abstract Technogenic soils (Technosols) developed in an ash settling pond at the Bełchatów thermal power station, central Poland, were studied in order to identify soil property transformations over 30 years of pedogenesis. Standard pedological methods were applied in order to determine the properties of the studied samples. All investigated soils were classified according to WRB as Spolic Technosols with various supplementary qualifiers (Alcalic/Hypereutric, Arenic/Loamic, Protocalcic, Hyperartefactic, Immisic, Laxic, Ochric, and Protosalic). The studied materials can be arranged into a chronosequence starting from fresh (unweathered) ashes, by young Technosol BE1 (age: several months), up to older Technosols BE2 (about 20 years) and BE3 (about 30 years). The studies showed that weathering and soil-forming processes changed properties of ash in soil environment. Fresh ash was characterized by high pH (11.0 – fly ash, 8.7 – bottom ash), low content of carbonates (1.5% in both samples), variable concentrations of TOC (1.2% – fly ash, 6.9% – bottom ash), and very low total nitrogen content (0.04%). Electrical conductivity (ECe) was 2.6 and 2.1 dS·m−1 in fly ash and bottom ash respectively. Young Technosol BE1 had the pH 9.2–10.0, contents of carbonates were in the range 2.4–3.3%, TOC 1.3–1.7%, and total nitrogen less than 0.03%. ECe in young Technosol was in the range 2.7–4.0 dS·m−1. There was no plant cover present on that soil and no well-developed genetic horizons were distinguished in the profile. Finally, old Technosols BE2 and BE3 had lower pH (from 7.9 up to 9.1), and, in general, higher contents of carbonates (from 1.5 to 7.9%) than fresh ash and young Technosol BE1. Old Technosols contained high concentrations of TOC (up to about 38% in Oi horizon) and total nitrogen (up to 0.9%) in the topsoil, where O and A horizons developed due to accumulation of soil organic matter. ECe in old Technosols was in the range 0.8–1.5 dS·m−1. All studied ashes and soils were characterized by very low or even absence of total potential acidity. Base cations predominated in the sorption complex of the investigated ash and soils and can be arranged in the following order according to the abundance: Ca>Mg>K>Na. Base saturation (BS) of fresh ashes and Technosols was nearly 100%. The study shows that the first indicators of pedogenesis of the studied technogenic soils within the first 30 years of formation are: (1) changes of consistence of ash material from firm to friable/very friable due to root action, (2) accumulation of soil organic matter in the topsoil and formation of O and A horizons, (3) decrease of pH, (4) formation of pedogenic carbonates in soils and (5) decrease in soil salinity.

13 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigated the effects of historical land use in New Moscow on urban soil microbial properties, and the influence of historic land use on subsoil microbial properties was not significant.
Abstract: Soil microbial properties are highly sensitive to present and past anthropogenic influences such as urban expansion, which is among the most drastic form of land-use change having substantial consequences for soils. New Moscow is an ambitious project to reduce the population of Moscow city that resulted in a rapid urbanization of former croplands, fallow lands, and forested areas. This study aimed to investigate the effects of historical land use in New Moscow on urban soil microbial properties. The land-use map of New Moscow from 2016 was compared with a similar map from 1981 to investigate the main urbanization pathways and land-use history of the new urbanized areas. Compared with 1981, the 2016 urban areas were more than three times greater, and the forest, pasture, and cropland areas were reduced by 9%, 87%, and 18%, respectively. Topsoil (0–10 cm) and subsoil (10–30 cm) samples were collected from 11 nonurbanized and 11 urbanized areas from current and former forest, pasture, and cropland soils. Soil microbial biomass carbon and respiration rates and chemical (pH and total C and N) and physical (bulk density and texture) properties were compared. Urban soils converted from forests and pastures showed negative effects of urbanization on topsoil microbial properties, whereas a conversion of cropland to urban soil increased microbial biomass carbon and microbial respiration. Soil microbial properties and N and C contents showed a strong correlation. The influence of historic land use on subsoil microbial properties was not significant.

12 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In 2018, the Soil Science Society of Poland has launched a programme "Soil of the Year" and Rędzina (Rendzina) was selected as the soil inaugurating the programme in 2018 as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: Abstract Following the other pedological societies, the Soil Science Society of Poland has launched a programme „Soil of the Year”, and Rędzina (Rendzina) was selected as the soil inaugurating the programme in 2018. Polish term „rędzina” was internationally popularized by Stanisław Miklaszewski in the second/third decade of 20th century and is present in the most soil classification systems as „Rendzina”, „Rendoll”, or „Rendzic” until now. In the Polish tradition, the rendzinas are soils developed from massive rocks rich in calcite, dolomite or gypsum, quite often with admixtures of glacial/periglacial materials, at all development stages. Contemporary classifications of soils in Poland distinguish four main groups (as the types or sub-types): raw rendzina – Calcaric Lithic / Hyperskeletic Leptosols (a minimal thickness of regolith and an initial development of genetic horizons), proper rendzina – Calcaric Leptosols (medium thick profile, but diagnostic horizons are absent), brown rendzina – Calcaric Skeletic Cambisols (have a diagnostic cambic horizon), and chernozemic/humic rendzina – Rendzic Skeletic Phaeozems (have a diagnostic mollic horizon). Rendzina soils are featured by high content of calcium/magnesium, neutral and alkaline reaction, and high base saturation throughout the soil profile, but the individual soil subtypes differ significantly in their usability for agriculture and forestry, depending on the thickness of the soil profile (i.e. a depth to the hard rock or extremely skeletal subsoil), stoniness, texture, and humus content.

12 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the effects of biochar on soil physical properties were investigated in a multi-year, multicrop field study, where they applied 0, 10, 20, 40, 80, and 80 Mg ha biochar with/without NPK fertilizer to the surface 15 cm of 1 × 1 m plots in a single association of fine-loamy, siliceous, subactive, thermic Oxyaquic and Aquic Paleudults under a 2-year corn-winter wheat-double-crop soybean rotation.
Abstract: Biochar may improve soil physical properties for crop growth, but multiyear, multicrop field studies are lacking. To determine the effects of biochar on soil physical properties, we applied 0, 10, 20, 40, and 80 Mg ha biochar with/without NPK fertilizer to the surface 15 cm of 1 × 1 m plots in a single association of fine-loamy, siliceous, subactive, thermic Oxyaquic and Aquic Paleudults under a 2-year corn-winter wheat–double-crop soybean rotation. After 3 years, we sampled soil to 7.6 cm, measured bulk density and water retention, and then derived pore-size distribution and related physical and water retention model parameters. Fertilizer had little to no effect. Among the statistically significant results, biochar increased structural porosity (3- to 59-μm effective pore diameter [EPD]) but neither matrix- (0.2- to 3-μm EPD) nor macro (EPD >59 μm) porosity. Biochar ≥40 Mg ha decreased bulk density 16%; 80 Mg ha increased total porosity 14%. However, it also increased water content at −1,500 kPa 22.5%. Biochar ≥40 Mg ha increased the drained upper limit (DUL) by 15%; relative field capacity, 3%; and total and structural plant-available water (PAW: held between the DUL and −1,500 kPa), 7 and 18%, respectively. Increases were greatest at −10 kPa and least at −33 kPa. At −10 kPa, 80 Mg ha biochar increased total PAW 4.0-mm equivalent depth compared with 5.7 mm for structural PAW, approximately 0.5-day demand for actively growing corn. Modeled saturated water content increased with total porosity. Biochar improved plant-soil-water relations, but required high rates.

11 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Forage radish (Raphanus sativus L. var. longipinnatus) is an increasingly popular winter cover crop in the mid-Atlantic region of the United States as discussed by the authors, which can be used to scavenge residual soil nitrate (NO3−) and ammonium (NH4+), with the goal of reducing nitrogen (N) loss from agricultural fields and increasing N availability for subsequent crops.
Abstract: ABSTRACT Forage radish (Raphanus sativus L. var. longipinnatus) is an increasingly popular winter cover crop in the mid-Atlantic region of the United States. This crop can be used to scavenge residual soil nitrate (NO3−) and ammonium (NH4+), with the goal of reducing nitrogen (N) loss from agricultural fields and increasing N availability for subsequent crops. In the present work, two sites in Maryland were examined to investigate the influence of forage radish cover crop and residual N fertilizer from corn side-dressing on the forms and vertical distribution of soil N and the yield of subsequent no-till silage corn (Zea mays L.). Forage radish dry matter ranged from 1,965 to 3,360 kg ha−1 for shoots and 1,531.5 to 3,740 kg ha−1 for fleshy taproots. Forage radish had a marked influence on the distribution of NO3−-N in the soil profile; in the spring following a radish cover crop, NO3−-N was concentrated in the surface soil, with no accumulation in deep soil, even at the highest fertilization rate of 168 kg N ha−1. The cover crop had no significant influence on the NH4+-N or total N profile. The average silage corn yield was significantly improved following cover cropping. In addition, the yield increased with the highest N fertilization rate but was not affected by low or medium N fertilization rate. In conclusion, a radish cover crop captures large quantities of residual N from the deep soil following N side-dressing and can improve the yield of subsequent silage.

10 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the levels of selected trace elements in soils and in the common dandelion depending on the distance from a traffic route were determined by the AAS method, after extraction in HCl at a concentration of 1 mol·dm»³, and after wet mineralization in a mixture of HNO₃ and HClO₄.
Abstract: The aim of the study was to determine the levels of selected trace elements in soils and in the common dandelion depending on the distance from a traffic route. The study was conducted in Warsaw near one of the main roads in the suburb of Ursynow. Samples for testing were taken from the 0–25 cm layer at sites located directly alongside the roadway and at a distance of 30, 60 and 300 m from its edge. The amounts of Pb, Ni, Cu, Zn and Cd in the soils were determined by the AAS method, after extraction in HCl at a concentration of 1 mol·dm⁻³, and in the aboveground parts and roots of dandelion plants after wet mineralization in a mixture of HNO₃ and HClO₄ by the AAS method. On the basis of the results obtained, it was shown that the concentrations of the tested metals, both in the soils and in the biomass of the test plant, were highest directly at the edge of the roadway and decreased significantly with the distance away from the road. This correlation indicates a significant impact of road transport on heavy metal levels in the environment bordering a traffic route. It was also shown that dandelion plants accumulate higher amounts of heavy metals in the aboveground parts than in the roots, and the heavy metal contents in the dandelion biomass were found to be significantly positively correlated with the amounts of these elements in the soils.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors evaluated the effect of biomass, ash, gypsum, and lime on the content of macro-and micro-elements in soil and grain of spring wheat in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship in Poland.
Abstract: The addition of lime and gypsum to wood ash and straw ash were used in the studies. The subject of the study was estimation of the fertilization effect of biomass, ash, gypsum and lime on the content of macro- and microelements in soil and grain of spring wheat. The experiment was carried out in 2016 in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship in Poland. The study compared three factors: wood ash of deciduous and coniferous trees and cereal straw ash (I. factor), two types of ash additions: lime or gypsum (mixture composition: 60% ash and 40% lime or gypsum) (II. factor), three doses of ash with lime or gypsum mixture: 2, 4, 6 Mg·ha⁻¹ and control (III. factor). The analysis of the microelements contents (copper, chromium, nickel and lead) in the soil shows that the application of fertilizer in a form of wood or straw ash as well as PROFITKALK lime or SulfoPROFIT gypsum did not exceed the threshold values for the soil from the first group of land specified in Regulation of the Minister of the Environment of September 1, 2016 on the manner of assessing the pollution of the earth’s surface. After application of biomass ashes (wood or straw) an increase of some macroelements (potassium, phosphorus and calcium) in the soil was observed. The experiment did not reveal any influence of applied fertilization in the form of wood or straw ash nor PROFITKALK lime nor SulfoPROFIT gypsum on changes in iron, manganese and zinc abundance in grains of spring wheat.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigated rendzinas diversity on the area of the Ojców National Park (ONP), southern Poland, and identified the relation between relief and soil cover slope position and its influence on classification.
Abstract: Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate rendzinas diversity on the area of the Ojców National Park (ONP), southern Poland. Moreover, the paper aims to identify the relation between relief and soil cover slope position and its influence on classification as well as the occurrence of lithological discontinuity. The studied soils were classified as brown and chernozemic rendzinas. Rendzinas in the area of the ONP are located mainly in the middle slope position where Upper Jurassic limestones regolith is mixed with loess sediments. This situation leads to vertical heterogeneity of soil texture (and formation of rendzinas with lithological discontinuity) within the soil profile. Surface horizons were mainly characterized by silty texture while in deeper horizons there was a more clay-like texture, which was the result of weathering Jurassic limestones located in deeper parts of soil profile. In turn, uniform shallow rendzinas occurred only on exposed rocks composed of limestones, where loess cover was absent. The character of ONP’s soils is also the result of parent material heterogeneity conditioned by long-term changes e.g. denudation processes and/or weathering. In order to assess soil heterogeneity, ‘lithological discontinuity indices’ as well as ‘uniformity values’ have been applied.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors evaluated the effect of three sanitization methods, thermophilic composting, torrefaction and pyrolysis (300°C, 500°C), on N and P availability following incubation in four soils with different pH (4.6-7.4), textures (clay loam to loamy fine sand), and mineralogy.
Abstract: Human waste contains ample plant-available nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), which can be used to address soil nutrient deficiencies. Biological and thermochemical sanitization methods have been proposed for safely treating the solid fraction of human waste (called human solid waste [HSW] in this study) but have rarely been compared directly. Furthermore, interactions between amendments and soil properties are also unclear, as pH, texture, and the presence of oxides all affect N and P availability. We therefore evaluated the effect of three HSW sanitization methods, thermophilic composting (60°C), torrefaction (200°C), and pyrolysis (300°C, 500°C), on N and P availability following incubation in four soils with different pH (4.6–7.4), textures (clay loam to loamy fine sand), and mineralogy. We also evaluated the effect of added urine with pyrolyzed HSW (500°C) on N and P availability in soils. A trade-off between N and P availability was observed with highest heating temperature of HSW, the magnitude of which varied with soil type. Compared with pyrolyzed HSW (500°C), composted HSW increased available soil N by 15% to 25%, whereas torrefied HSW increased available soil N by 40% to 57%. The change in P availability over time increased with pyrolyzed HSW (500°C) by 41% to 106% and 84% to 165% compared with composted and torrefied HSW, respectively. Multivariate linear regression highlighted the negative correlation between P availability and both soil oxides and amendment dissolved organic carbon. Combined fertilization with pyrolyzed HSW (500°C) and urine ameliorated low N, while preserving high soil P availability, which was 44% to 147% greater than soils fertilized with urine alone. Pyrolyzed HSW (500°C) lowered pH by 0.06 to 0.38 units compared with urine-amended soils with no pyrolyzed HSW. In conclusion, low N and P availability was observed with composted HSW (29–46 kg N ha, 6–15 kg P ha); ample N and moderate P were available with torrefied HSW (71–107 kg N ha, 12–30 kg P ha), whereas excess mineral N and ample P were provided in soils amended with pyrolyzed HSW (500°C) together with urine (404–486 kg N ha, 33–81 kg P ha) albeit at the expense of mild soil acidification.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors used X-ray diffraction (XRD) to identify the composition of mineral matter and to determine the types of clay minerals and intermediate stages of clays by means of the XRD.
Abstract: Soils in two river valleys (Rozoga and Omulew) in north-eastern Poland were investigated. The valleys are located on a sandy outwash plain formed during the Vistulian (Weichelian) Glaciation. The soils are drained, used as meadows and classified as Fluvic Umbric Gleysol, Fluvic Mollic Gleysol, and Eutric Fluvic Histic Gleysol (IUSS Working Group WRB 2015). The aim of the study was to identify the composition of mineral matter and to determine the types of clay minerals and intermediate stages of clay minerals by means of the X-ray diffraction (XRD). The studied floodplain soils are rich in organic matter and contain considerable mineral alluvial admixtures. The content of clay fraction (< 2.0 μm) is low (0.02–5.61% of total mineral matter). Higher content of clay fraction was noted in soils with elevated content of organic matter, which can be evidence of simultaneous accumulation of both components. In deeper depressions occurring in river valleys (oxbow lakes), a specific deposit termed silty telmatic mud (16–24% TOC, 50–75% silt, 3.1–5.6% clay fraction content) was accumulated. On the other hand, in shallow depressions, a muddy deposit was accumulated (5.7–7.7% TOC, sandy texture). The main identified clay minerals were smectite, vermiculite, illite and kaolinite as well as variety of mixed-layer clays. Alluvial clay admixture in studied soil formations showed mineralogical similarity to typical floodplain mineral soils (Fluvisols). Mineral fraction of studied soils is mostly of allochthonous origin.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, an overview of the rendzinas found in the Polish Tatra mountains based on literature data and unpublished authors results and observations is presented, with particular attention paid to soil properties related to the high mountain environment in Poland occurring only in the Tatra Mountains.
Abstract: The article presents the overview of the rendzinas found in the Polish Tatra mountains based on literature data and unpublished authors results and observations. Particular attention was paid to soil properties related to the high mountain environment in Poland occurring only in the the Tatra Mountains. The influence of soil forming factors on the genesis of rendzinas and their spatial distribution was described. Furthermore the soils properties were analysed in order of distinguished soil units. Finally the proposal for classification of Tatra rendzinas was given.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, a grass cover on the top of a 5-cm layer of mineral materials near two Cu-Ni smelters in the Russian Arctic zone was created using three types of serpentine-rich wastes and quarry sand.
Abstract: The successful rehabilitation of wastelands contaminated with industrial aerial pollution that contain a high concentration of heavy metals is promising through the use of alkalizing and adsorptive materials. Serpentine-rich mining wastes were deemed an ideal candidate for soil rehabilitation in the impact zone of Cu-Ni smelters. These mining wastes had favorable properties such as high phytoavailable content of Ca (3–10 g kg) and Mg (5–25 g kg) and have an alkaline pH of 7.5 to 8.5. Another advantage of these wastes is the ability to reduce Ni and Cu mobility, which are two important pollutants. Field experiments were conducted in 2011–2013 to create a grass cover on the top of a 5-cm layer of mineral materials near two Cu-Ni smelters in the Russian Arctic zone. Three types of serpentine-rich wastes and quarry sand (control group) were used for Technosol engineering on industrial barrens. There was a steady development of herbal communities on Technosols formed from the serpentine-rich mining waste. The biomass of the aboveground portions of the plants and the height of the turf on these Technosols was three times higher than in the control group using quarry sand. Serpentine-rich mining wastes enriched the underlying soil with phytoavailable Ca and Mg by a factor of 4 and 25, respectively, as compared with quarry sand. Serpentine minerals had reduced the mobile (water-soluble and exchangeable) concentration of Ni and Cu by greater than a factor of 10 due to acid neutralization, sorption, and the formation of sparingly soluble compounds. Summarily, the proposed remediation technology through the use of serpentine-rich mining waste succeeded in reducing the toxicity of heavy metals, increased the concentration of macronutrients, and promoted the sustainable development of plant cover.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors evaluated the effect of the addition of wheat straw and wheat straw biochar (in four rates) on quantitative and qualitative humus parameters, including pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, humic and fulvic acids, carbon in the extract, non-hydrolysing carbon and spectrophotometric indexes for solution of humic acids.
Abstract: Due to the indisputable significance of humus in many biochemical processes as well as its increasing deficit particularly in light soils, alternative sources of substrates for the reproduction of this constituent should be sought. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the addition of wheat straw and wheat straw biochar (in four rates) on quantitative and qualitative humus parameters. The following properties were determined in soil: pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, humic and fulvic acids, carbon in the extract, non-hydrolysing carbon and spectrophotometric indexes for solution of humic acids including A2/6, A2/4, A4/6. After applying 1% and 2% additions of biochar to the soil, the Cₒᵣg soil content significantly increased compared to the same doses of thermally unconverted straw. After 254 days of incubation, the addition of biochar to soil at higher doses, decreased the share of humic acid carbon (CHA, CFA) in the Cₒᵣg content compared to treatments without organic additions and WS treatment. The nonhydrolysing carbon soil content was significantly increased by treatments with 1% and 2% additions of WSB, which indicates greater stabilisation of humus compounds and, at the same time, lower CO₂ emission. Soil humic acids amended by treatment with biochar, especially at 1% and 2% doses, were characterised by lower A2/6 and A2/4 ratios. Recognition of changes that may occur in the quantitative and qualitative composition of soil humus after the application of biochar may in the future be helpful information for determining appropriate biochar dose.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the relationship between rendzinas and types of forest sites and plant communities in lowland, upland and mountain areas in Poland is discussed and the role of rendzina in forest sites is discussed.
Abstract: The article discusses the relationship between rendzinas and types of forest sites and plant communities in lowland, upland and mountain areas in Poland. Rendzinas as soils of forest sites play an important role in the uplands of southern Poland. In mountain areas, their preponderance is limited to the area of the Pieniny and the Western Tatras. The site-forming role of rendzinas in the upland areas depends mainly on geomorphological conditions. Typical rendzinas generally form eutrophic sites of multi-species oak-hornbeam forests, fertile beech forests and thermophilous beech forests. Rendzinas with lithological discontinuities usually create poorer form sites of mixed deciduous forests, which correspond to floristically poorer phytocenoses of acidophilous deciduous forests. In mountain areas, the climate and geomorphological processes form the zonation of vegetation and rendzinas. In vertical layout sites, the rendzinas change from fertile sites of fir and beech forests, through mesotrophic mixed forests sites, to spruce forest on limestone in the upper montane zone.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the effects of spontaneous succession and forestry reclamation restoration approaches on vegetation and soil features were studied in one of the largest limestone quarries of the Leningrad region, south taiga region.
Abstract: Abstract Due to a significant increase in mining activity and subsequent ecosystem disturbances, it is becoming increasingly important to understand how degraded, unproductive quarries can be converted into new, self-sustaining communities that develop into natural environments. Former limestone quarry was investigated with aim to determine the best reclamation practice for surfaces of former lime rock quarries. Effects of spontaneous succession and forestry reclamation restoration approaches on vegetation and soil features were studied. The study was conducted in one of the largest limestone quarries of the Leningrad region, south taiga region. Species composition and vegetation cover were estimated for different plant communities within each ecotype of the quarry. Also soil characteristics were evaluated at each plot. We found that the main differences between plots were due to their position in the landscape; the most similar communities colonize similar ecotypes. On flat landforms, biodiversity is reduced under biological reclamation. At the sites under spontaneous succession, the level of biodiversity increases. In terms of biodiversity conservation and economic benefit, spontaneous succession is preferable to forestry reclamation for the restoration of carbonate substrates. After examining CO2 emissions from the quarry as a result of weathering of carbonates and soil respiration, as well as the level of CO2 sequestration from the atmosphere, we show that the establishment of certain landscape forms within former quarries can help to reduce atmospheric CO2.

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TL;DR: In this paper, the main objectives of the study were to assess the mineralogical composition and selected chemical properties of atmospheric settleable particulate materials from 15 locations in Sulaimani City, Kurdistan Region, Iraq, sampled between August 2009 and March 2010.
Abstract: Airborne particulate matter has now become an important global environmental issue because of its many diverse effects on overall health and environmental degradation. Because of its unique complexity, solutions to this problem are challenging. The main objectives of this study were to assess the mineralogical composition and selected chemical properties of atmospheric settleable particulate materials from 15 locations in Sulaimani City, Kurdistan Region, Iraq, sampled between August 2009 and March 2010. In addition, representative samples from a heavy dust storm that affected the region on February 22, 2010, were collected from 3 locations within the city. Organic carbon, total carbonate (CaCO3 equivalent), and total free iron contents, along with pH, were determined in all samples. Mineralogical analysis of the collected samples was performed by x-ray diffraction. Carbonates made up the largest fraction of the identified minerals and were predominantly in an active form. The following abundant minerals occurred in all the studied dust samples in decreasing amounts: calcite, clay minerals, quartz, feldspar, and dolomite. The clay fraction was composed (in descending order of abundance) of palygorskite, illite, muscovite, chlorite, and smectite. Samples from the dust storm event contained gypsum minerals that were not present in the other samples and had the highest percentage of dolomite of all samples, indicating that settleable particulate matter from the meteorological dust storm had a different source than local dust.

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TL;DR: In this article, the authors used granular activated carbon (AC) in combination with diatomite and a biopreparation (BP) to accelerate the degradation of petroleum-contaminated soils.
Abstract: ABSTRACT The main objective of this research was to study remediation of petroleum-contaminated soils after treating with granular activated carbon (AC) in combination with diatomite and a biopreparation (BP). Bioremediation rate and properties of petroleum-contaminated soils were used to explore associated mechanisms. Experiments were conducted under microfield conditions with three types of soils surficially contaminated with crude oil followed by weathering. Soil samples were amended with BP and two doses of AC (in combination or separately) or with diatomite alone (D) and mixed with AC (ACD). Natural attenuation decreased the concentration of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) in the soils (initially 28–29 g kg−1) by 50% at 2 and 72% at 13 months. More efficient reduction of TPH (by 81% at 2 and 85% at 13 months) was achieved during the same period via in situ bioremediation by activating indigenous petroleum degraders, whereas the impact of BP alone was negligible. Soil amendment with the ACD mixture produced the best results; TPH content was reduced by 90% at 2 and 92% at 13 months, and soil phytotoxicity was low during most of the incubation period. Results demonstrated the potential of ACD as an adsorbent for accelerated bioremediation of petroleum-contaminated soils. Addition of the ACD mixture creates better conditions for degrading microorganisms and plant growth due to reversible adsorption of toxic petroleum components and metabolites, an increase in soil water-holding capacity, and total porosity, as well as a liming effect, increased plant resistance to abiotic stress in the presence of ACD, and better availability of compounds adsorbed to AC in the presence of diatomite.

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TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present the variability of limnic rendzinas based on many examples from the Mazurian Lakeland (NE Poland) and suggest new type additions to the next edition of the Polish Soil Classification.
Abstract: Several shallow lakes have been drained to make way for additional arable land or pasture in the Mazurian Lakeland (NE Poland) since the 19ᵗʰ century. As a result of these hydrotechnical works, the water level usually decreased by approximately 6 m. Bottom sediments of the former lakes were transformed into surface limnic soils. Part of them, developed from highly calcareous gyttja, may be called limnic rendzinas. However, the present position of these soils in the Polish Soil Classification is unclear. Where the lake has undergone a natural terrestrialisation, the gyttja is covered with peat and mursh. The raw gyttja soils differ in type of organic matter forming the topsoil horizon and are subject to further transformation, the direction of which depends on the sequence of sediments in the profile, mursh formation, mineral admixture and adjoining colluvial phenomena. Common features of all these soils are high content of calcium carbonate in the surface horizons, alkaline reaction, high groundwater level and periodical flooding. The paper presents the variability of limnic rendzinas based on many examples from the Mazurian Lakeland (NE Poland). Finally, new type additions were suggested to the next edition of the Polish Soil Classification.

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TL;DR: Geronimo, Eduardo, et al. as discussed by the authors presented a model for agricultural research in the context of the Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Cientificas y Tecnicas (CICTE).
Abstract: Fil: de Geronimo, Eduardo. Instituto Nacional de Tecnologia Agropecuaria. Centro Regional Buenos Aires Sur. Estacion Experimental Agropecuaria Balcarce. Area de Investigacion en Agronomia; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Cientificas y Tecnicas; Argentina

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TL;DR: In this paper, the authors analyze the composting process with respect to changes in some physical and physicochemical properties of the organic part of municipal solid waste and willow and hay biomass mixture, and find that the dynamics of changes in cation exchange capacity CEC values in relation to the base value of the initial materials of both tested composts were higher for municipal solid wastes compost (MSWC) compost than for willow biomass compost (WBC).
Abstract: Abstract The aim of the research was to analyze the composting process with respect to changes in some physical and physicochemical properties of the organic part of municipal solid waste and willow and hay biomass mixture. The dynamics of changes in cation exchange capacity CEC values in relation to the base value of the initial materials of both tested composts were higher for municipal solid wastes compost (MSWC) compost than for willow biomass compost (WBC). The dynamics of pH changes were similar in the tested types of compost and were rather small during the process of composting, regardless of the type of organic residues and initial reaction. During composting process, the transformation of organic matter and mineral components slows down after reaching a stabilization phase.

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TL;DR: In this article, the effects of long-term application of liquid manure from pig production and digestate from manure fermentation installation for biogas production on chemical changes in the soil, i.e., soil reaction, accumulation of available forms of phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium in the arable layer, as well as the phosphorus balance.
Abstract: The objective of the study was to assess the effects of long-term application of liquid manure from pig production and digestate from manure fermentation installation for biogas production on chemical changes in the soil, i.e.: soil reaction, accumulation of available forms of phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium in the soil arable layer, as well as the phosphorus balance. The assessment was carried out in two highly productive farms specialising in pig production, located in the Zachodniopomorskie Province. The soils under the study were treated with slurry and digestate annually for subsequent 12 years. The assessment of changes in nutrient content and accumulation was performed twice: after 10 and 12 years of fertiliser treatments. The rate of changes in soil reaction due to slurry and digestate application varied depending on the analysed field. Irrespective of the analysed field, 12-year application of slurry caused a drop in soil pH by an average of half a unit. The direction of changes in the content of available nutrient forms in the soil varied depending on the element evaluated. Notwithstanding the analysed field and the type of slurry used, a decrease in the content of available forms of potassium in the soil was observed. Slurry fertilisation did not affect magnesium contents in the soil. In the study period, the content of magnesium remained unchanged. Among the evaluated nutrients, an increased nutrient content in the soil was only found in the case of phosphorus – as a result of application of liquid manure in combination with mineral fertilisation. In the analysed farms, in the case of fields fertilised with slurry and digestate, the phosphorus balance was positive, and ranged from 15 to 40 kg P·ha⁻¹. The obtained values of the phosphorous balance strongly suggest that regardless of the type of liquid manure used on the farm, measures should be taken to introduce changes in the scope of fertilisation plans, with particular emphasis on the principles of balanced fertilisation.

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TL;DR: In this article, the chemical composition of SOM with incorporation of crop straw residues in a 6-year wheat-rice double-cropping system was investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and C multiple cross-polarization/magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (MAGS) techniques.
Abstract: Nitrogen (N) fertilization changes both the degradation rate and chemical composition of plant litter and soil organic matter (SOM). We sought to document how N application rates and incorporation of crop straw residues in wheat-rice rotation systems are related to the chemical composition of SOM. Using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and C multiple cross-polarization/magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy techniques, we investigated the chemical composition of SOM with incorporation of crop straw residues in a 6-year wheat-rice double-cropping system. Nitrogen fertilizer was applied at the rates of 0, 290, 380, and 470 kg N ha per year along with the incorporation of crop residues into the soil. We found that greater additions of N increased the concentrations of both C and N in the soil. The Fourier transform infrared spectra of SOM indicated that the abundance of aromatic functional groups (~1,628 and ~1,515 cm) and the amide groups (~1,660 and ~1,550 cm) increased in the N-amended treatments compared with the unamended treatment. C multiple cross-polarization/magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy results revealed that the abundance of recalcitrant compounds, including alkyl and aromatic C, increased, whereas labile SOM components, dominated by O-alkyl and anomeric C, decreased with the elevated N application rates. These observations were also reflected in calculated indices of A/O-A aromaticity and hydrophobicity. Our results support the hypothesis that recalcitrant compounds of SOM appeared to be enhanced with the increase of the N application rates to promote crop straw decomposition in the rice-wheat rotation system.

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TL;DR: In this article, an overview of the gypsic rendzinas that occur in the Nida Basin (Niecka Nidziańska) as based on authors' results and observations and also literature data is presented.
Abstract: Abstract The article presents the overview of the gypsic rendzinas that occur in the Nida Basin (Niecka Nidziańska) as based on authors’ results and observations and also literature data. The influence of gypsum forms (selenite, shale and compact gypsum) and allogenic admixtures on the properties of rendzinas was described. Furthermore, attention was paid to the specific climate conditions of the Nida Basin reflected in the native vegetation cover on the gypsum-derived soils. Finally, there is a proposal for classification of this area’s gypsic rendzinas and the soil properties were described for the specified soil units.

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TL;DR: In this article, the changes of content and forms of nitrogen and its calculated parameters in Haplic Luvisol influenced by the applied crop residues (wheat-WR, rape-RR) and biopreparations (Betaliq, Trichomil) were monitored in the small-pot experiment carried out at the Department of Soil Science (FAFR, SUA-Nitra).
Abstract: Agroecosystem crop residues are considered to be a primary resource of organic substances, and are subject to the different transformation processes in the soil environment. The decomposition processes of organic substance can be also regulated by the application of the different biopreparations. The decomposition of organic substances in soil also causes changes in nitrogen content and its forms. It is essential for farmers to know about these processes in order flexibly to regulate and affect the transformation processes of the applied crop residues via the biopreparations directly in the production conditions. The changes of content and forms of nitrogen and its calculated parameters in Haplic Luvisol influenced by the applied crop residues (wheat – WR, rape – RR) and biopreparations (Betaliq, Trichomil) were monitored in the small-pot experiment carried out at the Department of Soil Science (FAFR, SUA-Nitra). The laboratory experiments were established for the incubation period 4, 7, 14, 28, 60, 90 and 180 days. The applied crop residues had statistically significant impact on the contents of total nitrogen (Nₜ) and potentially mineralizable nitrogen (Nₚₒₜ) and inorganic forms N, similarly also the values of labile nitrogen (LN) and nitrogen pool index (NPI). The biopreparations affected statistically significantly the average values Nₚₒₜ, LN, nitrogen lability index (NLI) and nitrogen management index (NMI). During the incubation period, the contents Nₚₒₜ and values LN and other calculated indexes of nitrogen fluctuated significantly.

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TL;DR: In this paper, the effect of different types of plant carbon on the mineralization of the added carbon and of soil organic carbon (SOC) could contribute to understanding the priming effect.
Abstract: ABSTRACT Plant carbon (plant-C) added to soil can accelerate or inhibit the decomposition of native soil organic matter by inducing positive or negative priming effects. The effect of different types of plant-C on the mineralization of the added carbon and of soil organic carbon (SOC) could contribute to understanding the priming effect. An incubation experiment was carried out at 20°C under dark conditions for 28 days. Soluble-C, lipid-C, and recalcitrant-C derived from 13C-labeled maize straw were added at amounts equivalent to 25%, 50%, and 200% of microbial biomass carbon to two soils containing relatively high (159 g kg−1, H-SOC) and low (13 g kg−1, L-SOC) contents of total SOC. Results showed that mineralization rates varied greatly across soils and plant-C types. Independently of the type of plant-C, less than 30% of the added C was mineralized by the end of the incubation. A greater priming effect was observed in the H-SOC than in the L-SOC soil. Recalcitrant-C caused a greater priming effect than lipid-C and soluble-C in the L-SOC soil. Moreover, the type of priming effect caused by lipid-C and soluble-C in the L-SOC soil changed when the amount of added-C increased from 50% to 200% of microbial biomass carbon. Results indicate that SOC and the type of plant-C are important factors controlling the priming effect. Specially, N and other nutrients released during mineralization of recalcitrant-C stimulated microbial activity, causing a greater priming effect.