Linking Biochar Properties to CO₂ Emissions and Carbon Pool Dynamics in Agricultural Soils

Omotolani Habeeb Adebanjo

Diplomová práce

Abstract:

Objectives of thesis: The thesis aims to evaluate how biochar properties influence CO₂ emissions and short-term carbon transformations in agricultural soils. The work will focus on linking biochar characteristics such as pH, C/N ratio, and surface chemistry to measured CO₂ fluxes and shifts in soil carbon pools. Specific attention will be given to differences between fertilized and unfertilized soils, and to understanding how woody, postharvest residue, and bone-derived biochars affect microbial activity, labile carbon availability, and overall soil carbon stabilization potential. Methodology: A 30-day pot experiment will be conducted using agricultural soil amended with three contrasting biochars (woody, postharvest residue, and bone-derived) at a rate of 2% (w/w). Each biochar will be tested under fertilized and unfertilized conditions and compared with fertilized and unfertilized controls, resulting in eight treatments in total. Ryegrass (0.5 g per pot) will be grown as a model plant species. CO₂ emissions will be measured on days 2, 7, 14, 21, and 30 using the soda lime absorption method. At the end of the experiment, soil samples will be analyzed for demineralized water-extractable TOC/TN, pH, EC, permanganate oxidizable carbon, and biodegradable organic carbon. Biochar physicochemical properties (pH, C/N ratio, surface area, and labile carbon content) will be characterized prior to amendment. Data will be statistically evaluated to determine treatment effects and correlations between biochar properties, CO₂ fluxes, and soil carbon pool dynamics.

Keywords

Carbon Sequestration, Soil Respiration, Carbon Mineralization

Jazyk práce: angličtina

Datum vytvoření / odevzdání či podání práce: 2. 4. 2026

Obhajoba závěrečné práce

• Obhajoba proběhla 18. 5. 2026
• Vedoucí: Vithana Appuhamilage Niluka Wickramasinghe, Ph.D.
• Oponent: Zuzana Vaňková, Ph.D.

Česká zemědělská univerzita v Praze

Fakulta životního prostředí

Magisterský studijní program:
Environmental Geosciences