Electrophysical indicators of typical chernozems under the influence of combat actions and technological loading

Abstract The article presents the results of a study of the electrophysical indicators of typical chernozems that have been affected by combat actions and technological loading, as well as agrogenic use. The aim of the work was to identify changes in electrical conductivity, total mineralisation, salinity and the content of water-soluble calcium, sodium and potassium cation salts by comparing areas with different types of technogenic, agrogenic and post-agrogenic loading. According to the methodology, samples were taken from 0 to 40 cm at 10 cm intervals. Electrophysical parameters were measured in a water-soil paste (1:1) using an EZODO-8200 M conductometer and HORIBA LAQUAtwin ion meters. Additionally, correlations were established between electrical conductivity, total mineralisation, salinity and water-soluble salt content. Combat impact caused a decrease in electrical conductivity with depth, uneven distribution and accumulation of sodium and potassium salts in the upper layers. On the burnt fallow land, electrical conductivity decreased from 258 to 185 µS/cm and the potassium salt content from 55 to 7 ppm. In the road and equipment parking variants, an increase in electrical conductivity (up to 302 µS/cm) and accumulation of calcium salts up to 150 ppm and potassium up to 24 ppm were observed. In the arable land variant, electrical conductivity remained consistently high (up to 360 µS/cm), which was caused by agrogenic salt accumulation. On the ploughed section of the road, the indicators were moderate, indicating partial recovery. A strong correlation was found between electrical conductivity and calcium (+0.72) and sodium (+0.89), as well as a negative correlation with potassium (-0.35). The practical significance of the research results lies in the possibility of using electrical conductivity and water-soluble salt content as indicators of the degree of soil disturbance, which made it possible to quickly assess the degradation of agrogenic and technogenic disturbed areas of chernozems as a result of hostilities, as well as the possibility of formulating recommendations for the restoration of soil cover in the context of post-conflict land use