Changes in soil nitrogen dynamics and crop growth by biochar and nitrification inhibitor as investigated by carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios

Cropland soils are important sources of nitrous oxide (N2O), which is one of greenhouse gases. In soils, N2O is produced through nitrification and denitrification processes. Therefore, it may be possible to reduce N2O production by using biochar and nitrification inhibitors (NI). Biochar is known to decrease N2O production through biological and physico-chemical interaction with soil N processes, and NI can directly reduce nitrification-induced N2O production. However, it is still unknown how applications of biochar and NI affect the entire soil N dynamics as well as plant growth. In this project, I will analyze stable N isotope ratios (?15N) of soil ammonium and nitrate to investigate the effects of biochar and NI on soil N process and loss. In addition, the stable C isotope ratios (?13C) of plant samples will also be analyzed to examine the effects of biochar and NI on photosynthesis. I expect that the ?15N of mineral N in soils will decrease by application of biochar and NI due to reduced N loss as soil N loss increases ?15N of N through preferential loss of 14N.

Faculty Supervisor:

Scott Chang

Student:

Partner:

Chonnam National University

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Agriculture and Food; Environmental Science and Technology; Sustainability & the Environment

University:

University of Alberta

Program: