Implementation of sulfate adsorption in the SAFE model
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 9, 2026

Sulfate Separation by Selective Crystallization with a Bis-iminoguanidinium Ligand
Published on: September 8, 2016
1Department of Chemical Engineering II, Lund University, Sweden. tamon@niaes.affrc.go.jp
Abstract:
An SO4(2-) adsorption submodel has been implemented in the dynamic soil chemistry model SAFE. The submodel calculates pH-dependent SO4(2-) and H+ adsorption to the soil, as well as the net surface charge development due to uneven adsorption of SO4(2-) and H+, using the empirical equations derived from an electrostatic model (Extended Constant Capacitance Model, ECCM) of SO4(2-) adsorption. The resulting new SAFE model was applied on a roof experiment plot in the Norway spruce [Picea abies (L.) H. Karst.] stand at Solling, Germany, where atmospheric S and N deposition was artificially reduced by the roof construction. The model performance was compared with the previous versions that used a pH-independent Freudlich model of SO4(2-) adsorption or assumed no SO4(2-) adsorption. With the ECCM-based SO4(2-) adsorption submodel, SAFE simulated soil solution SO4(2-) concentration and base saturation better, in comparison with measured data, than with the previous SO4(2-) adsorption formulations. Through the model application, also, need of additional improvement was suggested, such as calibration of mass transfer coefficients.
Related Concept Videos
Phase II Reactions: Sulfation and Conjugation with α-Amino Acids
Sulfate Attack on Concrete
Sulfates from sources like soil, groundwater, or industrial effluents...
Microbes and the Sulfur Cycle
Electrophilic Aromatic Substitution: Sulfonation of Benzene
Preparation and Reactions of Sulfides
Adsorption Isotherms I
