Chemical properties and ecological condition changes of the degraded soils as a result of industrial activities

Abstract

The article describes the man-made degradation of irrigated soils, resulting from chemical pollution, changes in soil chemistry, and heavy metal pollution during thermal power plant operation. According to the results, the pH value of the soil fell from 7.2 to 6.1 as a result of man-made degradation, ie the acidic environment increased as a result of pollution. Also, some heavy metals, including As - increased by 4.2 times, Cr - by 16 times, Ni - by 2.5 times, Rb - by 3.7 times, Zn - by 4.8 times. Changes in soil environment and soil ecological status have resulted in deterioration in fertility rates and negatively impacted crop yields and quality.