Dynamic equilibrium and nutrients and metals release in sandy soils amended with hydrochar, lignite, and cactus powder

Abstract

Sandy soils face a host of challenges that have been increasingly addressed through organic management practices. Soil amendments have been proposed as a strategy to improve water and nutrient retention in sandy soils by improving structural integrity and fertility. This research focused on the use of different amendments (two types of hydrochar, two types of lignite, and two types of cactus powder) in a siliciclastic riverine sandy soil (Typic Psamments) to investigate nutrients and heavy metals release. Through a series of batch experiments, this study explored the effects of the amendments on soil quality and provided insights into their potential to address the challenges posed by sandy soils. Results indicated that hydrochar, lignite, and cactus powder demonstrated potential for enhancing soil fertility, improving nutrient content, and stimulating microbial dissolved organic oxygen degradation. The two types of cactus powder and the two types of hydrochar showed a high release of metals. This potentially poses constraints for field applications. This study serves as a pivotal stepping stone, offering foundational knowledge for subsequent in-depth examinations required for the responsible and effective implementation of these materials in agricultural practices.