Impact of Plastic Mulching on Soil Properties and Heavy Metal Dynamics in Agricultural Systems: A Case Study from Manikganj, Bangladesh

This research study examines the impact of different types and sizes of plastics on various soil properties. Clay loam soil samples were collected from Paril village, Manikganj district, Bangladesh, and subjected to plastic incubation experiments. The plastics underwent 180 days of intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation to simulate natural sunlight degradation. The soil samples were mixed with three types of plastics (P1, P2, P3) and two sizes (1mm, 10mm) in individual pots, with and without the addition of zinc sulfate. The soil properties, including pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), available zinc, cation exchange capacity (CEC), nitrogen content, and total phosphorus, were analyzed using various techniques. The results indicate significant variations in pH and TDS values influenced by plastic size and type. The available zinc content differed among plastic types, and plastic size affected CEC values. Nitrogen content was influenced by plastic size, with smaller particles having a greater impact. Total phosphorus content varied with different plastic types. These findings contribute to our understanding of the potential effects of plastics on soil properties and highlight the need for further investigation into the underlying mechanisms.