Summary
This laboratory investigation examined how activation treatment and nitrogen source alter nitrogen chemical speciation in biochar-based fertilisers. The authors quantified distinct nitrogen pools—water-soluble, hydrolysable, and non-hydrolysable fractions—demonstrating that these materials may deliver plant-available nitrogen progressively as soil conditions evolve, potentially reducing nitrogen losses whilst sustaining crop nutrient supply.
UK applicability
The findings are relevant to UK nutrient management practices, particularly for improving nitrogen use efficiency and reducing losses in organic and regenerative farming systems. However, applicability would benefit from field validation under UK soil and climate conditions.
Key measures
Water-soluble nitrogen, hydrolysable nitrogen, non-hydrolysable nitrogen fractions; total nitrogen content; effect of activation treatment and nitrogen source on chemical forms
Outcomes reported
The study characterised nitrogen chemical forms (water-soluble, hydrolysable, and non-hydrolysable fractions) in biochar-based fertilisers and related these to potential nitrogen availability in soil conditions. The findings suggest biochar-based fertilisers function as slow-release nitrogen sources with progressive plant availability.
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