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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Auburn, Alabama » Soil Dynamics Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #412477
Research Project: Sustaining Productivity and Ecosystem Services of Agricultural and Horticultural Systems in the Southeastern United States

Location: Soil Dynamics Research

Title: Soil mapping for carbon sequestration and regenerative agriculture using gamma analysis technology

Author
item Torbert, Henry - Allen
item Kavetskiy, Aleksandr
item Yakubova, Galina
item Prior, Stephen - Steve

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/6/2024
Publication Date: 9/23/2024
Citation: Torbert III, H.A., Kavetskiy, A.G., Yakubova, G.N., Prior, S.A. 2024. Soil mapping for carbon sequestration and regenerative agriculture using gamma analysis technology [abstract]. International Soil and Tillage Research Organization (ISTRO), 23-27 September 2024, Virginia Beach, VA.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: A new methodology has been developed that can provide soil elemental content distribution mapping across a field with no soil disturbance. The technology uses a mobile inelastic neutron scattering (MINS) system to measure elemental content in the soil at the atomic level. With this system, a neutron generator radiates the soil with neutrons and gamma detectors measure the resulting gamma rays produced from the excited nucleus of the atoms in soil. Elements such as C can be distinguished and the content determined. The methodology has been developed to allow the system to be mounted on a mobile platform with a GPS and moved across a field. With this system, the elemental content of elements such as soil C can be mapped across large areas. This patented methodology (United States Patent US 11,397,277 B2, Jul. 26, 2022) was licensed by Carbon Asset Solutions, is the basis of their MRV soil credit methodology, and has been ISO validated (June 30, 2023) as “comprehensive and transparent approach to calculating carbon sequestration” compliant with ISO 14064-2:2019 and 14064-3:2019. The details of this system and the resulting mapping will be discussed.