[Terrapreta] Char enhancements and testing

[Rex Manderson]

Some comments following our limited work with a few pots.  Following the
line of David Yarrow on microbial activity we found no need to provide
encouragement, the positive impact of char addition was visible within a few
days of germination.  We suspect that the key issue for speed of positive
impact is "good " char.  Our test material was 80% carbon so not too much
unconverted content, and it was finely divided.  Further if there is a lack
of nutrients in the target soil then the microbes appear to win the race for
what is available and the crop showed nutrient deficiency symptoms. I would
support the caution of Sean ( SKB ) and avoid sea water.

 

The level of activation is the second parameter behind the straight %C
purity that we think should be at least characterised for a char process.  I
have only spent a few hours on the topic, without finding anyone in
Australia who could give me an ASTM test and Iodine number result for my
samples.  Is anyone on the list equipped for the test or know where it can
be sourced at a reasonable price?  

 

I have found the various discussions on the source of terra preta quite
entertaining, but I would offer the view that it could easily become a
distraction only.  If we can repeat a consistent 40% agricultural
productivity gain ( + reduced nutrient run off, + less Nitrous Oxide, ++ )
with just plain char done properly then that is enough to drive us forward.
I have seen no views diverging from the belief that the char must be used in
conjunction with adequate nutrients, and the use of excrement as a source is
unlikely to impacted by confirmation that it was part of the Amazonian
cycle. 

 

Out of all the discussion I think that once we can get some bulk production
of char from low grade biomass happening efficiently the answers will come
rapidly.  That is our focus at present.

 

Regards to all.

Rex Manderson

Chaotech Pty Ltd

 

 

 

 

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