Alteration of Fractionation and Bioavailability of Arsenic (As) in Paddy Soil under Transition from Aerobic to Anaerobic Conditions

The impact of the change from aerobic to anaerobic immersed soil conditions on arsenic (As) fractionation (Tessier’s method) and its bioavailability (ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid extractable) were assessed. As-contaminated paddy soils were tested by laboratory simulation experiments. The samples were aerobic, with 35-49 mg/kg of As at low bioavailability (<2%). Most As was distributed in the stable fraction (77%), followed by As bound to ferric and manganese oxide (17%) and organic compounds (5%), while the mobile fraction (exchangeable and mildly acid-soluble) was limited (1%). After one month under anaerobic simulation, redox potential reduced to less than zero (-32 to -124 mV). The stable fraction of As decreased (-17%), while the mobile fraction increased (+16%) and As bioavailability also increased (+26% total As). Increase in the As mobile fraction was associated with freshly precipitated compounds. The As content in the soil altered from a stable fraction to an available fraction when confined in an anaerobic environment for a long period. Results indicated that agricultural methods which promoted anaerobic conditions in As-contaminated soil should be avoided.