Adsorption of diuron and linuron in Gaza soils

Abstract

This study investigated the adsorption potential of diuron and linuron in selected soil samples collected from agricultural area of Gaza Strip, Palestine and correlated the adsorption results to the soil properties. The adsorption experiments are based on the batch equilibrium technique and UV-Spectrophotometer method to determine the equilibrium concentration of both herbicides. Results of adsorption experiment showed that linuron and diuron are adsorbed in various amounts in Gaza soils according to the variation in pH, organic matter and clay content. Adsorption isotherms of both herbicides were linear in the tested concentration. Fitting the adsorption data to Freundlich equation showed good fitting and Freundlich constants were less than one indicating physical adsorption processes. It is concluded that soil organic matter and pH affect the adsorption of both herbicides. These results provided a better understanding of the behavior of diuron and linuron in Gaza soils.