In Situ Application of Mechanochemically Oxidized Lignite for Improving Soil Productivity on the Highway Divider Lawn

Mechanochemical modification of lignite in the presence of an eco-friendly oxidizer, sodium percarbonate, ensures one-step solvent-free oxidation of lignite organic matter. The product is characterized by high yield of humic acids and increases the content of phenolic and carboxyl groups. The study aimed to conduct in situ tests of mechanochemically oxidized lignite for restoring the highway divider lawn, with allowance for specific features of lawns maintained by public utility service providers. Adding oxidized lignite statistically reliably increased grass height and weight in the experimental sites compared to the control one. Applying oxidized lignite (30 g/m(2)) increased grass height and weight by similar to 40% and 25%, respectively, compared to those on the control site. Applying oxidized lignite (10 g/m(2)) together with N120P60K60 fertilizer and additional sowing of gramineous plant mixture increased grass height and weight by similar to 65% and 25%, respectively. Additional sowing of gramineous plants did not cause significant predominance of the gramineous component. The recommendations for the technology for maintaining lawns in this type of plots are provided.

Automated summary

Mechanochemical modification of lignite with an eco-friendly oxidizer, sodium percarbonate, allows for one-step solvent-free oxidation. The oxidized lignite can enhance grass height and weight, especially when combined with fertilizer and additional sowing. The study provides recommendations for maintaining lawns on highway dividers.