Decreased transpiration in poplar trees exposed to 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene
- Seattle Univ., WA (United States). Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Univ. of Iowa, Iowa City, IA (United States). Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering
The improper handling of the toxic compound 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) has led to the contamination of soil and groundwater, and the uptake of TNT by a variety of plants has been established. This article discusses the effects of various concentrations of the explosive 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) on the transpiration of hybrid poplar trees growing in hydroponic media. Transpiration was measured daily by gravimetric means. The rapid removal of TNT from hydroponic solutions was a result of plant uptake and required a daily dosage of TNT to ensure a relatively constant exposure over time. Transpiration decreased with increasing TNT concentrations {ge}5 mg/L. Decreases in transpiration were accompanied by leaf chlorosis and abscission. A comparison between a laboratory study and a pilot-scale experiment showed good scale-up potential.
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- OSTI ID:
- 675490
- Journal Information:
- Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, Vol. 17, Issue 1; Other Information: PBD: Jan 1998
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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