New Farm Fertilizer Could Remove CO2 from Air, Improve Soil Quality

A potential method has been identified to reduce the level of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere, which includes a material that can be used in agriculture. This approach uses specific minerals to accelerate the natural process of carbon minerals, a method that can greatly affect efforts to remove carbon. Research suggests that by modifying some minerals, the CO2 can be absorbed and can be closed in a much faster stable compounds compared to traditional methods, potentially a sequence of billions of tonnes annually. Scientists believe that this innovation can supplement the existing climate mitigation strategies, benefiting agricultural practices.

Study rapidly identifies the carbon capture process

according to a Study Published in nature, researchers have found that calcium silicates react more efficiently with CO2 than traditionally used magnesium silicates. This response speed makes them a promising option to remove CO2 on a large scale. Studies led by Stanford University Chemist Matthew Kanan and PostDoACTREL researcher Yuxuan chain suggest that integrating these ingredients into agricultural soil can increase soil quality while removing atmospheric CO2.

Mineral conversion may increase efficiency

A method was developed to produce calcium silicates by mixing at high temperatures of calcium oxide (CAO) and magnesium silicates. This process, which facilitates a mineral exchange, resulted in a material that binds CO2 thousands of times faster than natural weathering. Speaking For science, Kanan said that while magnesium silicates are abundant, calcium silicate is less available and requires processing. The study underlines a technique to produce a CAO from limestone, although capturing emissions from this process is a challenge.

Practical implications for agriculture

Farmers currently use calcium carbonate to reduce soil acidity, applying about one billion tons annually. Replaceing it with calcium silicate and magnesium oxide can also serve the same objective by capturing the CO2. Field trials have been started in Louisiana and New Jersey to assess possible effects on soil health. According to reports, concerns about impurities in minerals, such as trace metals, are being investigated before mass implementation.