Department Water Resources and Drinking Water

Soils can retain essential and toxic trace elements (TE) from both natural and human sources. In soils affected by seasonal flooding or waterlogging, temporary water saturation leads to reducing conditions. These changes can alter the chemical speciation and solubility of trace elements, potentially increasing their bioavailability and their transfer into surface and groundwater resources. Climate change is intensifying these processes by increasing the seasonal frequency of flood events and extending waterlogged periods during the winter half year.

This project investigates the dynamics of selected trace elements (Tl, As, Cu, Cd, Pb) in periodically waterlogged soils. It focuses on three key aspects: (i) the influence of seasonal temperature variations on soil reduction and trace element release, (ii) the chemical and biogeochemical processes controlling trace element behavior, and (iii) the role of microscale processes in trace element mobilization. Four work packages will be addressed by two PhD students and a postdoctoral researcher, combining laboratory microcosm experiments, advanced analytical techniques, and in-situ X-ray microspectroscopy analyses on soil micromodels.

The project aims to close critical knowledge gaps and develop new methodological approaches to better understand trace element dynamics in periodically flooded soils. The findings will contribute to sustainable soil use, improved management of contaminated sites, and protection of water resources under current and future climatic conditions.