Summary
This research explores how organo-mineral associations—the binding of organic matter to mineral surfaces—contribute substantially to the long-term stabilisation of pyrogenic organic matter in cropland soils over decadal timescales. The findings suggest that mineral-organic interactions, rather than chemical recalcitrance of pyrogenic compounds alone, are a primary mechanism sustaining ancient biochar-like material in agricultural systems. Such processes are relevant to understanding soil carbon dynamics and the potential for persistent carbon sequestration in managed soils.
UK applicability
The mechanisms identified may apply to UK arable soils where pyrogenic organic matter has accumulated historically or through biochar amendment. Understanding organo-mineral stabilisation could inform UK soil carbon sequestration strategies and help predict the longevity of pyrogenic amendments under temperate cropland conditions.
Key measures
Pyrogenic organic matter persistence; organo-mineral association quantification; soil carbon fractionation; stabilisation mechanisms
Outcomes reported
The study investigated the mechanisms by which organo-mineral associations preserve century-old pyrogenic organic matter (biochar-like compounds) in agricultural soils. It measured the contribution of mineral-organic interactions to long-term carbon stabilisation in cropland.
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