« Back

Abstract:

The aim of this research was to evaluate the influence of cement and lime dust on some properties of podzolic soils developed around a limestone plant located in Trzuskawica. The research was carried out on samples collected from four forest soil profiles in 2019. In the soil samples, particle-size composition, pH, total organic carbon, organic nitrogen, cationic sorption capacity, CaCO^₃ content, and total concentrations of selected trace metals were determined. The analysed soils are characterised by particle-size composition corresponding to loose and slightly clayey sands. The surface horizons’ pH is neutral and alkaline (pH_KCl> 6.5) which results from their enrichment in CaCO^₃. The enrichment of soils by trace metals such as Pb, Zn, and Sr, especially in the surface horizons, was observed. Under the influence of alkalisation, a clear transformation of the physical and chemical properties of Haplic Podzol soils which lost their original features (acidic soils typical of oligotrophic habitats), was found. Although the cement and lime industry does not pose a major environmental threat today, the effects of past activities are still present in the soil cover.