Determination of aluminium complexes of low molecular organic acids in soil solution from forest soils using ultrafiltration

Ultrafiltration (<1000 D) was evaluated as an analytical method for determination of Al bound to low molecular weight organic acids (LMWOA) in soil solutions from podzolised forest soils. The results were compared to those obtained by two chemical equilibrium models and a size exclusion chromatography method. The percentage of Al bound to LMWOAs was highest in the O horizon solutions (15–44%) and decreased in the deeper horizons. Citric acid was found to be the most important complex former. Generally the ultrafiltration method and modelling showed acceptable agreement. The method showed acceptable precision and good recovery of Al in the samples.