Abstract
Papermill biosolids (PB) can provide multiple benefits to the soil system. The purpose of this study was to quantify the effects of a high C/N ratio (C/N = 100) de-inked PB on soil physical and chemical properties, including soil bulk density, infiltration rates, wet aggregate stability, total soil carbon, and heavy metal concentrations. Four rates of PB (0, 50, 100, and 150 Mg ha(-1)) were applied annually, for up to 3 yr, on four agricultural soils in Ontario, Canada. Decreases in soil bulk density between 0.27 and 0.35 g cm(-3), relative to the nonamended treatment, were observed in soils receiving PB treatments over 3 yr. Total soil carbon increased within 1 yr on PB-amended soils planted to soybeans but not on soils planted to corn. Hydraulic conductivities (K fs) were greater in all soils receiving PB amendments relative to the nonamended treatment throughout the study. Other properties measured, such as pH and electrical conductivity, were relatively unchanged after 2 yr of PB applications. While some increases in heavy metal accumulation occurred, there were no clear trends observed at any of the sites related to PB rates. The results of this study provide support to the idea that annual applications of PB can add significantly to the stability of soil structure.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.