The Solution and Precipitation of Iron in the formation of Iron Pan

Abstract

The formation of Iron Pan or Ortstein is of fairly frequent occurrence both in Britain and on the Continent of Europe. It is of some economic importance, for where it occurs considerable expense has to be incurred before it is possible to grow a crop of any kind on the soil. The Pan consists of a hard layer of material which has to be broken through for successful cultivation, as it is cemented together in such a manner as to prevent any penetration of plant roots and to limit the circulation of air and water.