Soil paramagnetism is a characteristic that has gained attention in agriculture due to its potential influence on plant health and growth. The phenomenon of paramagnetism refers to the ability of certain materials to be attracted to a magnetic field, indicating that these materials have unpaired electrons. In agriculture, soils with high paramagnetic capacity have been shown to contribute to healthy plant growth by improving soil structure and stimulating microbiological activity.
Basalt flour
One of the materials that stands out for its high paramagnetic capacity is basalt flour, a volcanic rock powder that not only provides essential minerals to the soil, but also offers significant paramagnetic properties. In this article, we will explain how soil paramagnetism is measured and how the CGS value is obtained, a key unit for assessing the paramagnetic potential of soils.
What is soil paramagnetism?
Paramagnetism is a phenomenon in which certain materials, such as basalt, are attracted to a magnet due to the presence of unpaired electrons in their molecular structure. When a magnetic field is applied to these materials, the electrons temporarily align with the field, creating an attraction. Although the effect disappears when the magnetic field is removed, this phenomenon has proven beneficial in agricultural soils, as it improves the soil's ability to store and emit energy, which can influence plant health.
How is soil paramagnetism measured?
To measure soil paramagnetism, a tool known as the PCSM (Phil Callahan Soil Meter) is used, developed by Dr. Phil Callahan. This soil meter measures the amount of material that can move one centimeter toward a magnet in one second. The value obtained is expressed in CGS (centimeter-gram-second), a unit that is also used to measure magnetism.
The PCSM measures the paramagnetic capacity of the soil, allowing farmers to know the paramagnetic quality of their land and make informed decisions about the need for amendments such as basalt flour. The use of basalt in soils with low paramagnetic capacity has been shown to improve fertility and promote more vigorous plant growth.
How is the CGS value obtained?
The CGS value is obtained by measuring the response of a soil sample or crushed material (such as basalt flour) to a magnetic field. Below, we explain the typical ranges of CGS values for assessing soil quality:
- 0-100 CGS: Indicates a soil poor in paramagnetism.
- 100-300 CGS: Represents a soil with acceptable paramagnetic capacity, but one that can be improved.
- 300+ CGS: Considered excellent soil with high paramagnetic capacity.
A good paramagnetic amendment, such as basalt flour, should have a value of at least 1500 CGS. This ensures that the volcanic rock will provide the expected benefits to soil structure and health.
Benefits of basalt flour in agriculture
Basalt flour is widely known in agriculture for its ability to improve both the mineral quality of the soil and its paramagnetic capacity. This material offers a slow release of essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, magnesium and silicon, and in addition, its high paramagnetic value stimulates soil microbiology, favoring an environment conducive to root growth.
- Improved plant growth: Soils with greater paramagnetism tend to have better water retention and greater microbial activity, resulting in healthier, stronger plants.
- Stimulation of soil microbiology: Microbial activity has been shown to increase by up to 300% in soils treated with paramagnetic materials, which strengthens plants' natural defenses and promotes root development.
- Long-lasting application: Being a mineral powder, basalt flour has a long-lasting effect on the soil, and can be applied regularly to maintain paramagnetism levels and improve soil fertility.
Conclusion
The use of basalt flour as an agricultural amendment not only provides essential minerals, but also improves the soil's paramagnetic capacity, resulting in greater benefits for plant growth. Measuring paramagnetism with the PCSM and obtaining the CGS value are key tools for assessing soil quality and ensuring it is receiving the nutrients and energy it needs.
At Mineravi, we are committed to innovative solutions that respect the nature of the soil and promote its improvement. Basalt flour is one of the best examples of how natural products can enhance modern agriculture, ensuring its sustainability and productivity in the long term.