Distribution of cadmium in laboratory-scale kale cultivation irrigated with cadmium contaminated water

Abstract

To assess the cadmium distribution in soil, kale, and infiltrated water when irrigated with cadmium contaminated water at different concentrations. The sub objective was to assess crop safety under long term cultivation of kale. The irrigated water with eight cadmium concentrations: 0.010, 0.014, 0.023, 0.771, 1.291, 2.361, 5.531, and 7.982 mg/L were synthesized. Four rotations of kale (Brassica oleracea var. alboglaba) were consecutively grown in the same soil in eight laboratory-scale plot, diameter 1.0 m. and height 0.4 m. It was found that cadmium added was mainly adsorbed in soil while a small proportion absorbed in kale and infiltrated water. The infiltrated water had relatively low average cadmium concentrations 0.002-0.044 mg/L as compared with irrigated water. Based on Thailand drinking water standard, cadmium in irrigated water should not exceed 0.023 mg/L. The cadmium accumulation in kale was highest in root, stem, and leaf, respectively. The irrigated water with cadmium not exceeding of 0.023 mg/L is suggested based on crop safety (leaf and stem) of European Commission (EU) standard.