TRANSFORMATION OF ACID-BASE PROPERTIES OF SOIL SOLUTIONS UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF EXPLOSIONS: ECOLOGICAL RISKS AND CONSEQUENCES

Abstract

This study presents the results of an investigation into the acid-base properties of different soil types (southern and typical Chernozems, chestnut soils, sod-podzolic sandy soils) in areas affected by the explosions of aviation bombs (KAB) in Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk, Kherson, and Sumy regions of Ukraine. The findings demonstrate that explosive processes significantly transform the acid-base regime of soils, manifested in decreased exchange acidity, increased hydrolytic acidity, and localized acidification of soil solutions. The most pronounced changes were observed in Chernozems of Zaporizhzhia and sod-podzolic soils of Sumy, where buffer capacity was disrupted and accumulation of H⁺ and Al³⁺ ions in the soil adsorption complex was detected. To quantify hidden acidity, the Acid Load Index (ALI) was calculated as the ratio of hydrolytic acidity to active pH. The highest ALI values were recorded in control sod-podzolic soils (0.001713), indicating their natural vulnerability to acid load. Samples collected from craters in Sumy showed lower but still high ALI values (0.000866), confirming the persistence of hidden acidity after explosions. Chernozems in Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk exhibited moderate ALI values, while control Chernozems and chestnut soils demonstrated low indices, reflecting their relative stability. Ecological zoning based on risk levels identified areas of very high risk (sod-podzolic soils), high risk (crater samples in Sumy), moderate risk (Chernozems in Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk), and low risk (control Chernozems and chestnut soils). The results highlight a close correlation between changes in soil acidity and the mobility of biogenic and heavy metals, the capacity of soils to accumulate toxic substances, and their potential for self-recovery. These findings emphasize the need for systematic monitoring and differentiated remediation strategies to ensure the resilience of soil ecosystems in post-conflict regions.