Phosphorus Characterization in Wetland Soils by Solution Phosphorus-31 Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy

Solution 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy can be used to identify P compounds in wetland soils by their chemical functionality. Alkaline extracts of wetland soils have been found to contain a mixture of phosphonates, phosphomonoesters, phosphodiesters, and inorganic polyphosphates. As more researchers apply solution 31P NMR spectroscopy to wetlands, it is important that appropriate procedures, based on an understanding of the analytical issues, be used to provide accurate and comparable results. This chapter introduces basic NMR theory and discusses specific analytical considerations needed for its successful application to wetland soils (e.g., the need to standardize pre-extraction sample handling and account for soil Fe concentrations). The chapter concludes with a recommended procedure that includes an optional pre-extraction step (e.g., buffered dithionite, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, or HCl) dependent on a priori knowledge of the sample and an understanding of how such pre-extraction will impact P recovery and 31P NMR spectral composition.

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Methods in Biogeochemistry of Wetlands

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2163-2804

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