Impact of fertirrigation of vinasse on the quality of groundwater and surface waters

Abstract

The vinasse produced by the sugar and alcohol industry is widely used in the fertirrigation of sugarcane. Continuous and excessive application of effluent containing high organic and potassium loading and significant levels of calcium, magnesium, nitrates and sulfur can cause contamination of groundwater and salinization of aquifers. This work aims to evaluate the potential impact on groundwater and surface waters owing to the application of vinasse in the soil. For this purpose, different exposure scenarios will be evaluated in selected areas of São Paulo state. Percolation and hydraulic characterization tests will be performed with vinasse at different concentrations and application stages. The results of the chemical, physical and physicochemical characterization of these tests, together with the characterization of the contaminant transport parameters, will allow the determination of the final concentrations and the arrival time of the ions to the water bodies receptors (groundwater and superficial waters) using HYDRUS 2D / 3D software for different concentrations of vinasse. The results of the present research shall contribute to the improvement of criteria for the definition of maximum permissible dosages, so necessary and yet not clarified. (AU)