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Biosolids-derived nitrogen mineralization and transformation in forest soils
Hailong Wang1, Mark O Kimberley, Mirko Schlegelmilch
1Forest Research, Sala Street, Private Bag 3020, Rotorua, New Zealand. hailongwang@forestresearch.co.nz
Journal of Environmental Quality
|October 11, 2003
Summary
Biosolids land application releases nitrogen (N) into the environment. Aerobic municipal biosolids and higher temperatures significantly increased N mineralization, with soil type influencing N release from different biosolids.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Soil Science
- Wastewater Treatment
Background:
- Land application of biosolids is a common wastewater management practice.
- Understanding nitrogen (N) availability from biosolids is crucial to prevent water contamination.
- Biosolids-derived N transformation in soils impacts environmental fate and nutrient cycling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate nitrogen mineralization and transformation in biosolids applied to forest soils.
- To compare N availability from municipal and industrial pulp and paper biosolids.
- To assess the effects of digestion method, soil type, and temperature on N release.
Main Methods:
- Laboratory incubation of four secondary biosolids (municipal and industrial) mixed with two New Zealand forest soils.
- Incubation at two temperatures (10°C and 20°C) for 26 weeks.
- Periodic leaching of mineralized nitrogen (NH4+ and NO3-) using CaCl2 solution and subsequent analysis.
Main Results:
- Aerobically digested municipal biosolids showed significantly higher N mineralization (32.1%) than anaerobically digested (15.2%).
- N mineralization was significantly greater at 20°C (22.8%) compared to 10°C (9.7%).
- Soil type influenced N release: brown soil favored municipal biosolids N mineralization, while volcanic soil favored pulp and paper biosolids N mineralization. NH4+ to NO3- transformation varied with soil and temperature.
Conclusions:
- Biosolids digestion method and incubation temperature are key factors controlling N mineralization.
- Soil properties significantly affect the N release dynamics from different types of biosolids.
- Optimizing biosolids land application requires considering biosolids characteristics, soil type, and environmental conditions to manage nitrogen availability and minimize risks.