Counterions, smectite, and palygorskite increase microstructural stability of saline-sodic soils

Saline-sodic soils are susceptible to wind and water erosion when the dispersive effect of sodium overcomes inter-particle bonds. Rheological parameters viscoelasticity can help quantify attractive forces account for salinity in these soils. The main objective present study was investigate behavior saline-sodic Sirjan playa south-central Iran. Three representative pedons were excavated described by horizon. Soil physicochemical properties rheological determined, namely micromechanical flow point (γf), loss factor tan δ, integral z, with samples analyzed at three matric potentials (0, −6, −15 kPa). Results showed that soil microstructural stiffness mainly influenced texture, clay minerals, gypsum, calcium carbonate equivalent (CCE), potential. sodium, as indicated low z γf values, decreased increasing gypsum content − 6 15 kPa (0.6 < r 0.8) CCE percentage quasi-saturated (0 kPa) condition (r > 0.8). However, greater stability (i.e., higher γf) observed fine-textured relatively high amounts smectite palygorskite pH. Furthermore, increased lower due stabilizing menisci forces. Therefore, viscoelastic negatively associated concentration, while presence smectite, palygorskite, improved physical conditions thus rigidity porous system. These results demonstrate measurements identify have strongly degraded would most benefit from active management amelioration.