Getting to the root of the matter: Water-soluble and volatile components in thermally-treated biosolids and biochar differentially regulate maize (Zea mays) seedling growth.

The use of thermally treated biomass, including biochar, as soil amendments can improve soil fertility by providing nutrients, stable C and improving soil water-holding capacity. However, if the degree of carbonization is low, these soil amendments can lower crop productivity as a result of high salinity or organic compounds. The overall effect of these soil amendments is mediated by complex relationships between production conditions, soil properties and environmental conditions.