Method for the physical characterization of substrates using centrifugation

The characterization of substrate properties supports the correct choice components and directs management decisions in container cultivation. There are several systems analysis, however, routine procedures to determine water retention curve (WRC) time consuming inaccurate. This study proposed a reproducible, less time-consuming, easy perform method for physical substrates. We used Sphagnum peat, coconut powder, carbonized rice husk, expanded vermiculite, clay isolation. WRC was obtained at tensions 0, 10, 50, 100 hPa using Büchner funnel, European standard (CEN-EN13041), by centrifugation samples. In centrifugation, were simulated combining angular velocity, sample height, radius measured from outermost point central centrifuge. Three rotations applied (230; 520 730 rpm), testing each tension then volumetric content compared between methods. results showed positive correlation (p < 0.001) methods, considering that required moisture stabilization varied according material analyzed applied. However, obtain report reduced half. Sample is promising method, ensuring tensile force actually acts on entire also reducing duration analyses.