Agronomic and environmental implications of using a By-Product of the Intermediate Tanning Processes as Nitrogen Fertilizer

Abstract

Nitrogen (N) is an important nutrient for agriculture, and Brazil is heavily dependent on N imports. A by-product of the intermediate processes of tanning (BPIPT) may be used as an N fertilizer which will reduce this dependency, but its chromium (Cr) content is a matter of concern. This work assessed Cr (III, VI) and N (total, inorganic) contents in four soil samples ) due to the application of the BPIPT are not detrimental to biological activity in the soil. However, further investigations are still necessary to evaluate the mobility of these Cr species in the soil and possible risks of groundwater contamination, which were not addressed in this study.