Changes in soil chemistry and element uptake by Oak seedlings after application of soil amendment

Abstract

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of cellulosic wastes and nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) on the soil properties and the nutrient uptake by Quercus castaneifolia C.A.Mey seedlings. The seedlings were planted in pots (unpolluted soil) and cadmium (Cd) was added to the pots in three concentrations (10, 20, 30 mg.kg−1). Cellulosic wastes were mixed with the soil (at the same time as the planting) in four levels (W: 0, 10, 20, 30 g.100g−1 soil). The reduction method was used to prepare nZVI, then the nanoparticles were injected into the polluted pots in four levels (N: 0, 1, 2, and 3 mg.kg−1). The lowest concentration of Cd in leaves, stems and roots and for all the contamination levels was observed in N3. All the cellulosic wastes and N3 significantly increased the soil pH at all the levels of contamination. An increasing trend of the soil carbon (C) content was observed by adding the cellulosic wastes. The highest pH and C content were observed in W3. The lowest bioavailable Cd contents for all the contamination levels was observed in N3. According to the results, nZVI and cellulosic wastes could help the plants establishing in heavy metal-polluted lands.