EMU: Aquisition of a "Precision Lapping and Polishing Machine com Vaccum Impregnation Unit" for the fabrication of soil thin sections and polished soil blocks

• Grant number: 23/17331-1
• Support Opportunities: Research Infrastructure Program - Small Medium Sized
• Start date: September 01, 2024
• End date: August 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Agronomy - Soil Science
• Principal Investigator: Miguel Cooper
• Grantee: Miguel Cooper
• Host Institution: Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz (ESALQ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Piracicaba , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Carlos Eduardo Pellegrino Cerri ; Giorgio Basilici ; Pablo Vidal Torrado ; Zigomar Menezes de Souza

Abstract

Soil Micromorphology is a technique for the microscopic analysis of undisturbed samples of soils and similar materials, using a petrographic optical microscope. The aim is to identify and interpret the constitution, behavior and functioning of soil microstructures and similar materials. To do this, undisturbed, oriented soil samples are collected and impregnated with a solution of polyester resin and styrene monomer. From the impregnated samples, thin and ultra-thin sheets are manufactured using lapping and polishing equipment. The acquisition of high-precision lapping and polishing equipment is of fundamental importance for the preparation of high-quality thin and ultra-thin slides need to meet the most modern techniques for evaluating and describing soil micromorphology. The two major applications of soil micromorphology are in studies of soil genesis, morphology and classification, where microstructures are indicative of processes and mechanisms, and in soil management and conservation, where they are indicative of changes in microstructures resulting from the impact of use and management techniques. Currently, the Soil Micromorphology Laboratory at ESALQ/USP is the only laboratory in Brazil that routinely impregnates and manufactures thin slides and polished blocks for micromorphological and micromorphometric studies, both large in size, and on a scale to suit different users. (AU)