Soil structure describes the arrangement of soil particles and the network of pores between them. Soil structure controls water movement, root growth, gas exchange and microbial habitat, making it crucial for soil function and crop productivity.
The research group brings together expertise from across all research themes that rely on accurate assessments of soil physical properties.
To quantify soil structure, we combine classical techniques and cutting-edge methodology. Water retention curves across a wide range of matric potentials reveal the pore size distribution. Additionally, measurements of gas flow (either air permeability or diffusion) as the soil wets or dries provides insight into the organization and continuity of pores. Furthermore, we use micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) to scan intact soil cores, producing 3D images that let us visualize and quantify structural changes in fine detail. Together these approaches offer a good approach to understand the soil physical structure. Current research topics include:
Soil compaction effect on soil structure and its recovery (RESCUE project)
Long term effect of amendments and crop rotation on soil structure (BROSE project)
Linking potential greenhouse gas emissions to soil structure after compaction and soil amendments (RESCUE)
Tropical soil research: evaluating soil structure modifications after amendments with local organic waste (nbs4tea project and fruitbunch projects)
