Environmental Impact of High Concentration Nitrate Migration in Soil System Using HYDRUS Simulation

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Geochemistry
• Soil Science

Background:

• Nitrate is a key heat transfer fluid in solar thermal and nuclear power generation.
• Leakage of nitrate can lead to significant environmental contamination and pollution.
• Understanding nitrate migration is crucial for mitigating its environmental impact.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the deep and prolonged migration of high-concentration nitrate in soil.
• To study the diffusion range of nitrate to estimate and reduce environmental pollution from leaks.
• To identify factors influencing nitrate contamination extent and duration.

Main Methods:

• Numerical modeling of nitrate transport in soil systems.
• Analysis of factors including precipitation, soil properties, and groundwater depth.
• Assessment of contaminant diffusion in both saturated and unsaturated soil zones.

Main Results:

• Vertical nitrate contamination is primarily influenced by annual precipitation, soil properties, and groundwater depth.
• Horizontal contamination extent is mainly determined by the initial leakage area.
• Nitrate contamination can persist for 115-625 years, with longer durations in drier regions.
• Nitrate diffuses faster in unsaturated soils, and increased groundwater depth reduces migration and contamination range.

Conclusions:

• Nitrate migration and soil contamination are complex processes influenced by multiple environmental factors.
• Effective management strategies are needed to reduce the long-term environmental risks associated with nitrate leaks.
• The study provides critical data for assessing and managing nitrate pollution in soil and groundwater systems.