The Appropriate Particle Size of Dazomet Can Ensure the Soil Fumigation Effect from the Source

Dazomet (DZ) is a soil fumigant that has been used for decades at many countries, however it was reported to have caused phytotoxicity and reduced crop yield in many countries. In this experiment, in order to clarify whether the diameter of DZ is related to phytotoxicity, this research investigated the degradation rate of DZ with different diameter ranges under three soil types held at 15, 20 or 30% soil water content at 4, 15, 25 or 37 degrees C, and monitored concentrations of methyl isothiocyanate (MITC) produced when Shunyi soil was fumigated with DZ using the different particle sizes ranges. When the soil water content and temperature increased, the degradation rate of DZ with different particle sizes accelerated. However, the degradation rate of DZ with large particle sizes was still lower than small particle sizes. NO3--N, available phosphorus (AP), available potassium (AK), pH and silt content in the soil were all significantly positively correlated with <100 mu m DZ, and significantly negatively correlated with 300-400 mu m and >400 mu m DZ. However, organic matter (OM) and sand content produced the opposite result. The maximum concentration of MITC produced by 100-300 mu m of DZ in 25 degrees C Shunyi soil at 30% water content were 102.2 mg/kg at 24 h. DZ produced peaks significantly higher and earlier at 30% than at 20% soil water content. We recommend selecting DZ manufactured with particle in the range of 100 to 300 mu m, fumigating at about 25 degrees C and ensuring that about 30% soil water content is present in the soil immediately after fumigation.

Automated summary

This research investigated the degradation rate of Dazomet (DZ) with different particle sizes and its relationship to phytotoxicity. The results showed that larger particle sizes of DZ had slower degradation rates and different particle sizes also affected the soil's chemical properties and bioclimate. It is recommended to use DZ with particle sizes ranging from 100 to 300 μm, fumigate at around 25 degrees C, and ensure about 30% soil water content after fumigation.