Application of acoustic oscillations for accelerating the leaching process of saline soils

Abstract

The escalating expansion of saline soils in arid and semi-arid regions presents a significant challenge to agricultural sustainability. In light of the widespread water scarcity, there has been a growing demand for innovative technologies aimed reducing water during the leaching of saline soils. This study explores the application of acoustic vibrations, particularly utilizing a seismic vibrator SV 10/100, to improve the efficiency of soil desalination. The mechanism of action of acoustic vibrations is explained by the formation of a vortex flow around soil particles oscillating within a defined amplitude and frequency range, thereby enhancing the dissolution of salts. This study specifically targets soda solonetz-solonchak soils with diverse mechanical compositions, situated in the Ararat plain of Armenia. Field experiments utilizing the lysimetric method were conducted in 2016. The primary aim was to determine optimal parameters of acoustic oscillations to expedite desalination process while assessing their impact on soil physical properties during leaching. Findings revealed that higher oscillation amplitudes (ranging from 4 to 7 mm) at frequencies of 10–70 Hz, within a 100-meter radius or 3.14-hectare area were watched. Specifically, oscillations at frequencies of 30–50 Hz for 1.0–1.5 h per leaching water portion (2500 m3/ha) effectively reduced the required leaching water volume and duration by 2 times when applied during soil leaching following acidification. It is important to note that the soil properties after leaching remained in the optimal ranges for the region (soil density 1.2–1.3 g/cm3, hydraulic conductivity 10–20 cm/day). Overall, this research underscores the efficacy of acoustic oscillations in expediting reclamation processes, reducing leaching water requirements, enhancing soil fertility, and facilitating integration into agricultural cycle. Therefore, the newly proposed method of utilizing acoustic vibrations shows potential for efficiently leaching saline soils.