Basic Field CO2 Test

Description

Overview: The Solvita Field Test is intended for measuring soil respiration in fresh soil samples not processed in a lab.  The test provides insight into actual field (“basal”) microbial activity undisturbed by drying and grinding.

Application: This do-it-yourself procedure is designed for field-moist soils measured shortly after sampling and tested for 24-hrs at room temperature.  The application closely matches the USDA-NRCS Soil Health for Educators protocol for soil respiration. CO2 is read by means of a color chart and compared to tables in the instruction manual which also provides interpretation.  Additional tools for interpretation are available on the Solvita website.

Note: For more accurate readings and uploading into computer files, the Solvita Field Digital Color Reader (DCR) may be used, see .

Contents: Included in the test kit package are:

• 8 Low-Level CO2 probes
• 4 Incubation jars (polystyrene 475mL with lids affixed with gas-tight gaskets)
• 1 Color Chart for reading soil CO2
• 1 Instruction Manual with interpretation guide

Refills: Additional probes and jars are available in varying quantities to refill the kit.