Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon and phenol compounds as products of transformations of humic substances from brown coal fertilized soil

Aim of project
The food chain is particularly threatened when excessive pollution concentration takes place in soils, which are characterized by low content of humus and soil reaction. The activity of biological environment is considerably limited in these conditions. Brown coal, which is characterized by a big amount of organic colloids, can be a source of organic matter. Therefore, brown coal is advisable in agricultural practice and reclamation procedures. Among specific properties of brown coal, first of all the following need to be mentioned: porous system, consequence, ability of absorption of water and heavy metals. Brown coal can affect the development of microorganism in soil which play an important role.

It has been suggested that brown coal or brown coal preparations application can generate in the soil environment dangerous polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (WWA) and phenol compounds. As a result of microbiological and biochemical transformation WWA and phenol compounds, which are harmful to plants and the environment, can occur in soil. Although the industry is the main source of WWA and phenol compounds, WWA can be created when influenced by soil microorganisms during conversions of organic substances, which is proven by WWA presence on fields and forests far from highways and the industry. Therefore, there is reasonable fear, based on the above-mentioned results, that as a result of microbiological and biochemical transformation, WWA and phenol compounds can be harmful to plants and environments in the soil environment.

Expected results
In case of a positive result of the project, i.e. confirmation of lack of WWA generation as a result of transformation of brown coal in the soil environment, it will be possible to eliminate the possibility of influence of negative brown coal on the environment. In case of a negative result, it will be possible to withdraw it from application, basing on the supplied evidence documentation.