Impact of Chloride Concentration on Denitrification Efficiency: A Case Study of an Agricultural Field (T3 Site), McLean County, Central Illinois

Publication Date

2024

Document Type

Abstract

Degree Type

Graduate

Department

Geography, Geology and the Environment

Mentor

Dr. Eric Peterson

Mentor Department

Geography, Geology and the Environment

Abstract

The widespread use of nitrogen-based fertilizers in agricultural fields has led to a significant increase in nitrate concentrations in soil and water, posing a significant threat to human health and aquatic ecosystems. This raises interest in understanding the factors influencing denitrification processes. One factor is the concentration of chloride, which is believed to inhibit denitrification. This study focuses on understanding the impact of chloride on denitrification through column studies. The research employs laboratory analysis using soil columns from the study area (T3 site) to assess the interactions between varying chloride levels and nitrate loss. It is expected that increasing the chloride concentration reduces the rate of nitrate loss. This is attributed to the inhibitory effect of chloride on microorganism activity. This research contributes to the broader efforts towards sustainable water quality management and environmental conservation. The findings may highlight the need for a better understanding of the impact of chloride on nitrogen reduction and in developing effective strategies for mitigating nitrate contamination in water ecosystems. It will provide practical implications for managing nitrate pollution in agricultural settings. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of considering microbial communities in future models and environmental management practices aimed at optimizing denitrification processes in contaminated surface and subsurface environments.

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