Soil Carbon Dynamics as Influenced by Biochar Fertilization.

Recent studies suggest that biochar fertilization may be an innovative approach to enhance soil carbon sequestration and persistently maintain soil quality. However, transformation of biochar in soil is largely unknown. To maximize the economic and environmental benefits of biochar fertilization, the carbon mineralization, storage, changes in properties, and interactions with minerals of biochar following soil application warrant systematic investigation. Laboratory incubation and field weathering studies were conducted to investigate soil carbon dynamics and sequestration as influenced by biochar fertilization. Soils amended with raw crop residues and biochars were exposed to designated environmental conditions for 12 months and monitored for monthly changes in organic carbon content, BET surface area, organic functional groups, spectroscopic characteristics, and nutrient retention capacity.