CURVA DE INCUBAÇÃO DO PÓ DE ROCHA CARBONATITO FOSFÁTICO COMO REMINERALIZADOR DE SOLO

Abstract

The high dependence on soluble mineral fertilizers in Brazilian agriculture has encouraged the search for alternative inputs capable of promoting soil fertility in a more sustainable manner, among it the soil remineralizers stand out. This study aimed to evaluate the incubation curve of phosphate carbonatite and its effects on the chemical attributes of a Dystrophic Red Latosol. The experiment was carried out under greenhouse conditions using a randomized block design with four replications and rates of 0, 1, 3, and 5 t ha⁻¹ of the remineralizer. Soil samples were collected every 30 days during an incubation period of up to 120 days. Throughout the evaluation period, a gradual increase in soil pH and a reduction in potential acidity were observed, especially at the highest application rates, reflecting the progressive dissolution of carbonate minerals. The phosphate carbonatite application promoted a continuous increase in soil phosphorus contents during incubation, indicating the progressive release of apatites present in the material. Changes were also observed in cation exchange capacity, base saturation, and the dynamics of micronutrients (Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn), mainly associated with changes in soil pH. Overall, the results indicate that phosphate carbonatite acts as a gradual release remineralizer with potential to be integrated into sustainable soil fertility management strategies, particularly in highly weathered tropical environments.