Phosphorus effect on Zn adsorption–desorption kinetics in acid soils

The adsorption–desorption kinetics of Zn in the absence and presence of P was studied by using the stirred flow chamber technique. The results thus obtained were compared with those previously obtained for Cu. As with copper, the simultaneous addition of P and Zn in a 1:1 mole ratio to soil was found to significantly increased Zn adsorption relative to the absence of P. Unlike Cu, however, Zn was only adsorbed at fast adsorption sites in the absence of P. In any case, the increased adsorption of Zn in the presence of P was largely due to slow adsorption sites, where Zn2+ ion acted as a bridging element between P and organic matter. Following adsorption in both the presence and absence of P, Zn was desorbed to a much higher extent than was Cu. However, the proportion of Zn desorbed after adsorption in the presence of P was significantly lower than in the absence of P. This indicates that Zn binds more strongly to adsorbing surfaces in the presence of P than in its absence.

Research highlights
► Zn adsorption in acid soils is higher in the presence of P than in its absence.
► Zn adsorption occurs at fast sorption sites in the absence of P.
► Zn adsorption occurs at fast and slow adsorption sites in presence of P.
► Zn is more strongly bound to soil in the presence of P than in its absence.