Evaluation of rubidium and potassium diffusion in soil by radiotracer technique

In this study, diffusion of rubidium and potassium in soil was observed representing two alkaline elements. Generally, these elements are found as salt compounds in the earth. Soil columns were prepared in the laboratory conditions. Rubidium chlorite and potassium nitrate compounds were irradiated at ITU TRIGA Mark II nuclear research reactor at the Energy Institute of ITU to produce the radiotracer 86Rb and 42K. The irradiated compounds were sprinkled to the surface of different soil columns and were watered with realistic amounts. Radioactivity measurements were carried out by using a scintillation detector at the outside of the column for different soil depths in different diffusion times. As the results of the study, the behavior of two alkaline elements was observed appropriately similar in the soil.