Physical properties of peats as related to degree of decomposition

Abstract

Important physical characteristics, such as water retention, water yield coefficient, and hydraulic conductivity, vary greatly for representative northern Minnesota peat materials. The differences are related to the degree of decomposition, which largely determines the porosity and pore size distribution. Fiber content (> 0.1 mm) and bulk density are properties often measured to indicate the degree of decomposition of peat materials and are criteria used to distinguish fibric, hemic, and sapic peat types.

Citation

Boelter, D.H. 1969. Physical properties of peats as related to degree of decomposition. Soil Science Society of America Proceedings. 33: 606-609.