Research Article
Simulation Study on Vertical Migration Processes and Driving Mechanisms of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Permafrost Soils
Qinxuan Bai
,
Zhiyong Han*,
Dehua Wang,
Xinpeng Wei,
Zixuan Wang,
Shiquan Wang,
Yingying Hu,
Yanling Zhu
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
125-136
Received:
27 April 2026
Accepted:
4 June 2026
Published:
9 June 2026
Abstract: Currently, research on persistent organic pollutants in permafrost soils has primarily focused on distribution surveys, with limited studies investigating migration mechanisms. This paper examines the vertical migration processes and driving mechanisms of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in permafrost soils. Given the diverse sources of pollutants under natural conditions and the complex mixture of contaminants typically found in soils, this study selected 16 priority-controlled PAHs as research targets. Using loess soil from Lanzhou—a seasonally frozen region—as the experimental substrate, we conducted indoor soil column leaching experiments under freeze-thaw cycling conditions. This approach simulates the vertical migration of PAHs in permafrost soils, to quantitatively describe PAHs' vertical migration and distribution within soil profiles, along with permafrost layer barrier mechanisms. Simulated soil column experiments combining freeze-thaw cycles and leaching were designed to analyze the driving mechanisms of PAH vertical migration influenced by these processes. The results indicate that the driving mechanism of freeze-thaw cycles primarily involves water migration toward the freeze front due to soil surface freezing, leading to upward migration of pollutants. The driving mechanism of leaching primarily involves vertical migration of dissolved-phase PAH pollutants in soil through leachate. The primary driving force is leaching, while freeze-thaw cycles drive PAHs to migrate upward over greater distances.
Abstract: Currently, research on persistent organic pollutants in permafrost soils has primarily focused on distribution surveys, with limited studies investigating migration mechanisms. This paper examines the vertical migration processes and driving mechanisms of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in permafrost soils. Given the diverse sources of poll...
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Research Article
Inputs from Faidherbia. albida and Traditional Practices on a Pellic Vertisol and an Eutric Regosol Within a Parkland System in Mambang, Far North Cameroon
Marguerite Ngo Mbogba*,
Estelle Ndome Effoudou,
Brunot Nyeck,
Martin Yemefack
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
137-157
Received:
6 April 2026
Accepted:
15 May 2026
Published:
25 June 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.earth.20261503.12
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Abstract: To enhance sustainable production systems, drylands must face a myriad of problems. Regardless of local conditions, some local practices could help address these problems. However, their applications are not well understood and the results are not well quantified. Our objective was to assess the response of Faidherbia albida (Delile), A. Chev (F.A.) on a Pellic Vertisol and its combined effect with stone walls on an Eutric Regosol. Composite soil samples (0–5, 5-10, 10-20 cm) were collected from these soils under and outside, respectively Faidherbia albida tree and Faidherbia albida tree associated with stone walls, and analyzed for routine laboratory determinations. Statistical analyses were performed to interpret the dataset and assess relationships between management practices and soil properties. The soil quality index (SQI) and the response ratio (RR) were computed to evaluate differences between soils under and outside canopy. Both soils significantly benefited from inputs from F.A. and particularly when combined with stone walls. For Pellic Vertisols, only the superficial layer (0 -5 cm) significantly benefited from F.A. inputs. Here, SQI1_1uF.A (under F.A.) ˃ SQI1_1’oF.A (Outside F.A.). As compared to soils in open field, F.A. contributed 46.24% of SOM (Soil organic matter), 128.23% of total nitrogen, 270.85% of available phosphorus and 254.2% of potassium and improved soil temperature and humidity. When associated with stone walls, the whole plow layer (0-5, 5-10, 10 - 20 cm) on Eutric Regosol, significantly benefited from inputs from the complex F.A. and stone walls. Indeed, SQI2_1uF.A ˃˃ SQI2_1’oF.A, SQI2_2uF.A.˃ SQI2_2’oF.A and SQI2_3uF.A.˃SQI2_3’oF.A. As compared to the open area, F.A. combined with stone walls brought 141.5% of SOM, 201.9% of total nitrogen, 89.35% of calcium, 495.2% of potassium, 93.3% of sodium, 499.6% of available phosphorus and 109.8% of soil humidity. Improving soil quality through local practices, suitable to local conditions, is key to enhance Sahelian livelihoods.
Abstract: To enhance sustainable production systems, drylands must face a myriad of problems. Regardless of local conditions, some local practices could help address these problems. However, their applications are not well understood and the results are not well quantified. Our objective was to assess the response of Faidherbia albida (Delile), A. Chev (F.A....
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