Mineralogical transformations in acidic volcanic rocks of the Serra Geral Group and their potential as Silicate Agrominerals (SiA): interactions with microorganisms in corn assay
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22456/1807-9806.153712Keywords:
Microbial bioweathering, Rock dust, Soil remineralization, SustainabilityAbstract
Global demand for food and Brazilian agriculture's dependence on imported fertilizers highlight the need for alternative nutrient sources derived from local georesources. This study investigates the agronomic potential of two rocks from the Serra Geral Group, a rhyolite and a dacite, used as silicate agrominerals (ASi) in assay with maize (Zea mays). The experimental design was innovative because plants were grown in rock powder mixed with chicken litter, without the addition of soil, to isolate the interactions between minerals, organic matter, and the root system. Petrographic analyses, XRD, XRF, and SEM were performed on the rock powders before and after assay lasting 60 and 216 days. The results reveal mineralogical transformations and alterations in the devitrified matrix rich in alkali feldspar, while SEM images indicate the development of microbial communities associated with mineral surfaces and microscale characteristics of grain morphology. These observations indicate that bioweathering mediated by microorganisms plays a central role in mineral dissolution and nutrient release from rock dust. The finding supports the use of these volcanic rocks as effective sources of essential nutrients and reinforces their potential as silicate agrominerals to reduce dependence on synthetic inputs in sustainable agricultural systems in Brazil.
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