Harnessing Salt Crusts From Lake Urmia: A Sustainable Approach to Soil Stabilisation and Dust Mitigation

ABSTRACT Wind erosion poses significant environmental and health challenges, particularly in arid regions, where it contributes to soil degradation and intensifies dust storms. This study evaluates the potential of supersaturated brine (SC‐brine), derived from Lake Urmia's salt crusts, to stabilise erosion‐prone soils from three distinct dust sources. The aim was to investigate the mineralogical, microstructural and mechanical transformations induced by SC‐brine treatment, using techniques such as X‐ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive X‐ray (FESEM‐EDX) and compressive strength testing. Soil samples were collected from three dust sources with varying textures and mineralogical compositions. SC‐brine, prepared by concentrating magnesium‐ and sodium‐rich salts from Lake Urmia, was applied to the soils. Results showed significant crust formation and improved compressive strength across all samples. Dust Source 1, rich in carbonates, exhibited uniform cementation and consistent strength (maximum: 881.99 kPa). Dust Source 2, with higher silt and clay content, achieved the highest overall stability, with a maximum compressive strength of 1289.96 kPa and the thickest crust (13.3 mm). Dust Source 3, dominated by quartz, showed localised salt precipitation and the highest compressive strength (4940.26 kPa) but lacked depth stability due to its sandy texture. XRD and FESEM‐EDX analyses identified halite and bischofite precipitation as key stabilisation mechanisms, with variations linked to soil mineralogy. These findings highlight SC‐brine as a sustainable, cost‐effective solution for enhancing soil stability and reducing dust emissions in arid regions. Future work should focus on optimising brine composition and application methods to maximise effectiveness across diverse soil types.