Aggregation and Organic Matter Decomposition in Soils Amended with De‐Inking Paper Sludge

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Abstract
De‐inking paper sludge (DPS) has been traditionally disposed of by burning or landfilling, but could be used as an organic amendment in agricultural soils. Our objective was to assess the impact of DPS incorporation on organic matter and aggregation of a clay loam (Typic Dystrochrept) and a silty clay loam (Typic Humaquept). Whole soil C, particulate (>53 μm) and light fraction (density 95% for fresh DPS to 1 mm was 2 to 6 times larger in amended soils than in the control. This effect was still statistically significant after 3 yr. Microscopic observations revealed that DPS formed into clusters of wood fibers which became encrusted with mineral particles. We hypothesized that this encrustation provided physical protection to the decaying DPS which remained particulate (>53 μm) in size and progressively densified to >1.8 Mg m −3 As a result, water‐stable macroaggregates were formed with DPS as a central core.
Funding Information
  • Daishowa, Inc
  • Québec City, Canada
  • Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

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