Regresar

Hygroscopicity as a valuable complement in soil analysis, 2. Correlation between maximum hygroscopicity and some physico-chemical characteristics of Ap-horizons with different textures

Abstract:

Hitherto, an extensive series of analyses is needed to characterize soil samples. According to the data described in the literature, as well as data obtained from our own experiments, the use of maximum hygroscopicity or "Hy" is finally evaluated. By means of statistical analysis, the correlation between pairs of properties was studied for different Ap-horizons from Quaternary deposits at various locations representing the main soil types of Belgium. A few samples (approximately 10) are from secondary origin with CaCO3 contents of about 40%. The regression equations resulting from this study enable us to calculate definite figures for different soil characteristics such as clay content, C.E.C. (cation-exchange capacity) and especially for moisture constants at 15 atm and 1 3 atm as well as for the available water capacity. The results obtained demonstrate that "hygroscopic water" may be used as a valuable complement in soil analysis. © 1971.