Assignment of Thermogravimetric Mass Losses to Soil Organic Matter, Its Fractions Hot Water–Extractable and Microbial Biomass Carbon, and Organic Matter–Stabilizing Soil Mineral Properties

Summary

This study validates thermogravimetric analysis as a diagnostic tool for characterising soil organic matter stability and carbon cycling dynamics. By systematically assigning thermal decomposition signatures across 100 soils to functionally distinct organic and mineral phases, the authors demonstrate that TGA can discriminate between recalcitrant and labile carbon pools. The methodology enhances interpretation of soil organic matter–mineral interactions and provides a refined approach to assessing soil carbon storage capacity.

Regional applicability

The thermal analysis methodology is applicable to UK soils and could support national soil health monitoring programmes and carbon accounting frameworks. However, calibration of temperature ranges and organic matter pool assignments may be needed for UK-specific soil types and land-use conditions.

Key measures

Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) mass loss profiles, hot water–extractable organic matter, microbial biomass carbon, soil mineral properties, organic matter stability indices

Outcomes reported

The study assigned thermogravimetric mass losses at specific temperature ranges to distinct soil organic matter fractions, microbial biomass carbon, and mineral-stabilising properties. Analysis of 100 soils revealed that thermal decomposition signatures can discriminate between recalcitrant organic pools and fast-cycling microbial biomass across varying soil genesis conditions.

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