ARS | Publication request: GAS DIFFUSION IN A 2-D SOIL SYSTEM

Submitted to: Agronomy Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract
Publication Acceptance Date: October 25, 2001
Publication Date: October 25, 2001
Citation: Yates, S.R., Dungan, R.S., Papiernik, S.K., Errnst, F.F., Gan, J. 2001. Gas diffusion in a 2-d soil system. Agronomy Abstracts. Charlotte, NC. Oct. 21-25, 2001. Abstract No. S01-YATES140611-P.

Technical Abstract: Chemical alternatives for methyl bromide appear to be the only viable short to medium range replacements in pre-plant soil fumigation systems. However, current fumigation practices need to be improved to minimize negative societal and environmental impacts. Often the amount of fumigant applied to soils is greater than necessary to achieve adequate pest control. Excessive application rates are often used to minimize the financial risk from crop damage. This occurs because actual pest control depends on a set of complex interrelated factors affecting fate, volatilization, and distribution in soil, and is affected by ambient soil and environmental conditions and various application factors. The effect of these factors is generally unknown prior to fumigation. The objective of this paper is to report on a method to predict fumigant fate and transport in soil and the survival and destruction of common soil pathogens. Preliminary laboratory experiments conducted in a 2-D soil box will be described including diffusion in soil, emissions from soil, and pathogen control. The experimental measurements will be compared to predicted values.