October 24, 2023
Report

Investigating carbon stabilization in soils via mineral adsorption: What are we missing when we define mineral associated organic matter.

Abstract

Understanding carbon (C) fluxes released from soil to atmosphere is critical to regulating global climate change. Soil minerals play a crucial role in stabilizing C, based on recent studies which have found that mineral associated C can be stored in soils for decades to centuries longer than non-mineral associated C. We aim to maximize C sequestration via mineral adsorption in soils. To achieve this objective, it is important to understand the potential impacts of C stabilization via adsorption to mineral surfaces. Particularly, investigating the quantitative impacts of C sorption to minerals is novel to understanding and implementing multi-scale biogeochemical processes of C stabilization in soils. We will conduct a literature review on potential impacts of C sorption to minerals, thereby contributing to the net C storage in soils. Our findings will allow us to quantitatively understand soil C changes and durability at molecular and ecosystem scales, fulfilling existing scientific gaps in the community as well as interests of sponsors, such as DOE-BER.

Published: October 24, 2023

Citation

Zhao Q., O. Qafoku, and K.A. Rod. 2023. Investigating carbon stabilization in soils via mineral adsorption: What are we missing when we define mineral associated organic matter. PNNL-35030. Richland, WA: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.