EDDS and polystyrene interactions: implications for soil health and management practices

Ethylenediamine-N,N'-disuccinic acid (EDDS) has been studied extensively for its potential use as an amendment in agriculture due to its numerous beneficial properties. The widespread usage of microplastics (MPs) poses a growing threat to plant growth. This study investigated the effects of Polystyrene MPs (PSMPs) and EDDS on soil pH, EC, organic matter (OM), available nutrients, and maize (Zea mays L.) growth in a calcareous soil. Results showed that both PS and EDDS had significant effects on soil pH, with higher concentrations leading to a decrease in pH. PSMPs negatively impacted soil health by increasing EC and decreasing OM, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). EDDS had potential applications in soil remediation and phytoremediation by decreasing EC and increasing N, P, and K. The interaction between EDDS and PSMPs suggests that their effects on soil pH may be modulated by each other. The study highlights the potential negative impacts of high concentrations of PS on soil health and the potential benefits of using EDDS at lower concentrations in soil remediation and phytoremediation. However, further research is needed to understand the mechanisms and environmental impacts of EDDS and the combined effects of EDDS and PSMPs on soil properties and plant growth.