OCHRE FORMATION IN FIELD DRAINS IN PYRITIC SOILS |
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| Authors: | B D TRAFFORD C BLOOMFIELD W I KELSO G PRUDEN |
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| Institution: | Field Drainage Experimental Unit, M.A.F.F., Cambridge;Rothamsted Experimental Station, Harpenden |
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| Abstract: | Two distinct forms of ochre are known to occur in field drains. One form, which is most common in wet peaty areas, is caused by the growth of filamentous iron bacteria. The second form is associated with Thiobacillus ferrooxidans, and occurs where the soil contains pyrite. Contrary to previous reports, liming decreases the rate at which pyrite is oxidized in soil and, by decreasing the amount of iron entering the drains in a given period, should significantly increase the active life of the drainage system. Regular liming is probably preferable to a single large initial dressing. |
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