Summary
This field trial investigated the concentration-dependent effects of nanobiochar (NB) applied with farmyard manure on ammonia emissions, soil microbial health, and corn nutrient acquisition. Whilst moderate to high NB concentrations (25–50%) effectively reduced ammonia emissions by 25–38%, the highest concentration (50%) induced toxicity to soil microbes and nutrient cycling, reducing soil microbial biomass by up to 36% and corn potassium uptake by 21%. The findings highlight a critical trade-off: nanobiochar shows promise for ammonia mitigation but requires careful dose optimisation to avoid ecological harm.
Regional applicability
The study's geographic origin is not specified in the metadata provided. Transferability to United Kingdom arable systems would depend on climate, soil type, and management context; however, the concentration-dependent toxicity concern is likely applicable across temperate and subtropical corn-growing regions where farmyard manure amendments are common.
Key measures
Ammonia (NH₃) emission; soil microbial biomass carbon; soil microbial biomass nitrogen; soil potassium; corn potassium uptake; nutrient mineralisation rates; nanobiochar concentration (12.5%, 25%, 50%)
Outcomes reported
The study measured ammonia emission reduction, soil microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen, nutrient mineralisation, and corn nutrient uptake (particularly potassium) when nanobiochar at varying concentrations was applied alone or mixed with farmyard manure. Results indicated concentration-dependent effects, with higher nanobiochar concentrations reducing ammonia but suppressing soil microbial activity and crop nutrient uptake.
Topic tags
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