Frontiers in Sustainable Development · 2025
Effects of Sewage Sludge on Soil Physical, Chemical and Biological Properties
Hu, Y., Shan, Y.
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Effects of Sewage Sludge on Soil Physical, Chemical and Biol…
Abstract
Sewage sludge, also known as biosolids, is the insoluble residue generated during the treatment of domestic sewage and industrial wastewater, and its land application has become a common and economical disposal method. This paper reviews the effects of sewage sludge on soil physical and chemical properties as well as potential environmental risks. Sewage sludge is rich in organic matter, macronutrients and micronutrients, but its nutrient content varies with sources and treatment processes, and heavy metal concentrations show significant regional differences. The application of sewage sludge can reduce soil bulk density, increase porosity, improve water-holding capacity and infiltration rate, while enhancing soil organic matter content and nutrient levels, thereby improving soil physical and chemical properties. However, long-term or excessive application may lead to the accumulation of heavy metals and nitrate in soil, increasing the risks of groundwater pollution and adverse impacts on human health. Additionally, there are controversies in existing studies regarding the effect of sewage sludge application on soil aggregate stability. Therefore, prior to the land application of sewage sludge, a comprehensive assessment of sludge characteristics, soil types and crop species is necessary to balance its resource utilization and environmental safety.
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Sewage sludge, also known as biosolids, is the insoluble residue generated during the treatment of domestic sewage and industrial wastewater, and its land application has become a common and economical disposal method. This paper reviews the effects of sewage sludge on soil physical and chemical properties as well as potential environmental risks. Sewage sludge is rich in organic matter, macronutrients and micronutrients, but its nutrient content varies with sources and treatment processes, and heavy metal concentrations show significant regional differences. The application of sewage sludge can reduce soil bulk density, increase porosity, improve water-holding capacity and infiltration rate, while enhancing soil organic matter content and nutrient levels, thereby improving soil physical and chemical properties. However, long-term or excessive application may lead to the accumulation of heavy metals and nitrate in soil, increasing the risks of groundwater pollution and adverse impacts on human health. Additionally, there are controversies in existing studies regarding the effect of sewage sludge application on soil aggregate stability. Therefore, prior to the land application of sewage sludge, a comprehensive assessment of sludge characteristics, soil types and crop species is necessary to balance its resource utilization and environmental safety.
Sewage sludge, also known as biosolids, is the insoluble residue generated during the treatment of domestic sewage and industrial wastewater, and its land application has become a common and economical disposal method. This paper reviews the effects of sewage sludge on soil physical and chemical properties as well as potential environmental risks. Sewage sludge is rich in organic matter, macronutrients and micronutrients, but its nutrient content varies with sources and treatment processes, and heavy metal concentrations show significant regional differences. The application of sewage sludge can reduce soil bulk density, increase porosity, improve water-holding capacity and infiltration rate, while enhancing soil organic matter content and nutrient levels, thereby improving soil physical and chemical properties. However, long-term or excessive application may lead to the accumulation of heavy metals and nitrate in soil, increasing the risks of groundwater pollution and adverse impacts on human health. Additionally, there are controversies in existing studies regarding the effect of sewage sludge application on soil aggregate stability. Therefore, prior to the land application of sewage sludge, a comprehensive assessment of sludge characteristics, soil types and crop species is necessary to balance its resource utilization and environmental safety.