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A simple technique for determining mineralization of carbon during incubation of soils treated with organic materials

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Summary

A simple technique is described for determining the rate of mineralization of carbon (carbon dioxide release) during incubation of soils treated with organic materials. The moistened mixture of soil and organic material is contained in a closed test tube and a small vial containing barium peroxide and water rests on the soil. This mixture absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen in approximately equivalent amounts. The vial is removed periodically, replaced with a freshly charged vial, and its carbonate content determined in a calcimeter. Typical results obtained using a number of organic materials are presented.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Imperial College, S.W.7., London, England

    A. H. Cornfield

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  1. A. H. Cornfield
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Cornfield, A.H. A simple technique for determining mineralization of carbon during incubation of soils treated with organic materials. Plant Soil 14, 90–93 (1961). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01343772

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01343772

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