Organo-mineral associations largely contribute to the stabilization of century-old pyrogenic organic matter in cropland soils

Summary

This 2020 study in Geoderma demonstrates that organo-mineral associations—rather than the inherent chemical resistance of pyrogenic carbon—are the primary mechanism stabilising century-old pyrogenic organic matter under arable cultivation. Using laboratory analysis and field observations, the authors show that soil mineral composition and the capacity for organo-mineral binding are critical factors determining carbon sequestration potential in managed agricultural systems. The findings suggest that soil management practices affecting mineral–organic interactions may influence long-term carbon stability in croplands.

UK applicability

The mechanisms identified are universally relevant to temperate arable soils, including those in the UK. UK farmers and soil scientists may use these findings to inform management of soil structure and mineral composition to enhance organic carbon stabilisation in cereal systems.

Key measures

Pyrogenic carbon concentration and persistence; organo-mineral binding capacity; soil mineral composition; carbon stabilisation timescales

Outcomes reported

The study quantified the persistence of century-old pyrogenic organic matter in arable soils and identified organo-mineral associations as the primary stabilisation mechanism rather than inherent chemical recalcitrance of pyrogenic carbon itself.

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