Research Data for the manuscript ”Rainwater Chemistry Shapes Soil Stability and Erosion Processes in Chernozem”
Description
Table 1 Concentration (mg L-1) of total calcium ions (soluble and suspended) leached by rainwater and retained over time. Table 2 Concentrations of ∑(Ca2++Mg2+), total calcium (soluble and suspended), and organic matter (as CODCr) leached by rainwater and retained over time. This dataset contains the experimental measurements used in the study “Influence of Rainwater Chemistry on Soil Erosion and Stability in Typical Chernozem Soils.” It includes raw and processed data generated from controlled laboratory simulations examining how acidic, moderate, and ammonium-rich model rainwater influence the dissolution, hydration, and structural stability of calcareous Chernozem soils. This dataset contains the measurements used in the study on how different types of rainwater (acidic, moderate, ammoniacal) affect dissolution, hydration, and structural stability of calcareous Chernozem soils. It includes: (1) chemical composition of model rainwaters; (2) Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ dissolution data from three Chernozem soil types; (3) suspension stability, settling behavior, and COD measurements; and (4) aggregate stability data from controlled freeze–thaw experiments.
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Steps to reproduce
The dataset was obtained through a series of controlled laboratory experiments designed to evaluate how different rainwater chemistries influence dissolution, hydration, and structural stability of calcareous Chernozem soils. Three model rainwater types—acidic, moderate, and ammonium-rich—were prepared using analytical-grade reagents (Na₂SO₄, KNO₃, NaCl, NH₄Cl, NaHCO₃) dissolved in double-distilled water. Each solution was equilibrated with CO₂-enriched air for two hours to reproduce natural carbonate buffering. Soil samples (particle size <0.16 mm) from Typical Chernozem, Clayey Carbonate Chernozem, and Clayey Alluvial Chernozem were dried, homogenized, and weighed into 250 mL aliquots of model rainwater. Dissolution experiments were performed in 500 mL glass flasks under continuous shaking. pH was monitored using a calibrated pH meter (±0.01 accuracy). Calcium and magnesium concentrations were determined by EDTA titration with Eriochrome Black T and Murexide indicators. Suspension stability and settling behavior were recorded at fixed time intervals. Freeze–thaw experiments were conducted using a custom freezing platform that allowed gradual ice formation from the water surface downward. Soils underwent repeated cycles between −18 °C and +20 °C. Aggregate stability and structural consolidation were assessed before and after freezing cycles. COD (CODCr) was measured according to standard dichromate oxidation protocols using Hach reagents and a digital colorimeter. Data were recorded and processed in Microsoft Excel; no specialized software beyond standard spreadsheet tools was required. All procedures are documented in the accompanying README file to enable full reproducibility.
Institutions
- Universitatea de Stat din Moldova