Physical Degradation and Organic Matter Loss in Soils Impacted by Bomb-Induced Disturbances in Ukraine

This study investigates the physical degradation and organic matter loss in soils subjected to explosive disturbances in Ukraine, with particular focus on bomb crater zones. Soil samples were collected from impact sites (CR) and adjacent undisturbed reference areas (NT) across four representative soil types: Albic Arenosols, Luvic Greyzems, Luvic Chernozems, and Haplic Chernozems. A comparative analysis was conducted to evaluate changes in particle-size distribution, the silt-to-clay ratio, soil organic matter (SOM), and the structural saturation index (St). The results reveal notable textural alterations, characterized by reductions in coarse fractions (very coarse and coarse sand) and enrichment in finer particles, including very fine sand, silt, and clay. The most significant transformations were recorded in Haplic Chernozems (–3.44% sand, +2.09% silt, +1.35% clay) and Albic Arenosols (+6.08% very fine sand), indicating intense aggregate fragmentation induced by explosive forces. SOM content declined across all soil types, with the most substantial loss observed in Albic Arenosols (–55%, from 1.82% to 0.82%) and the smallest in Haplic Chernozems (–36%). Structural integrity was also compromised: in all disturbed profiles, St values dropped below the 5% erosion-risk threshold, indicating increased vulnerability to degradation. Despite these changes, the silt-to-clay ratio remained relatively stable, suggesting conservative behavior of fine particles under mechanical stress. These findings provide important insights into the ecological consequences of warfare-related soil disturbance and offer a scientific basis for post-conflict land restoration strategies. The documented decline in SOM and structural stability poses a serious threat to soil fertility, water retention capacity, and erosion resistance. Targeted remediation efforts and adaptive land management practices are essential to restore soil functionality and support long-term agricultural sustainability in affected regions.