PLANT GROWTH EXPERIMENTS FOR AGRICULTURAL APPLICATION OF AMMONIUM SULPHATE FROM DESULPHURISATION UNIT

The E-beam desulphurisation facilities of Maritza East-2 TPP generate ammonium sulphate as a by-product. It contains a limited quantity of ammonium nitrate and other impurities. The aim of this paper is to investigate the agrochemical efficiency of the by-product as a mineral fertiliser. Assessment of its plant impact is performed via a series of pot experiments. Growth rates of late-seeded brand beans are compared when ammonium sulphate as by-product and p.a. grade are applied. Plant diameter, length and leaves number are compared. Legal base for agricultural application of chemicals is taken.into consideration, too. The national law is in compliance with the European acqui. It also sets norms for protection, restoration and improvement of arable lands as well as strictly prohibits utilisation of any agro-chemical without the required biological and toxicological registration and permit. The overall results obtained prove the good potential of ammonium sulphate for land application under controlled conditions. The ammonium sulphate by-product could be recommended as a NS fertiliser for direct use or to be used as a component of balanced multi-component fertiliser.