A model of humin

Journal Article · Fri Nov 30 23:00:00 EST 1990 · Environmental Science and Technology; (USA)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/es00082a015· OSTI ID:5869501

Rice, J A; MacCarthy, P ^[1]

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1. Colorado School of Mines, Golden (USA)

Humin is defined as the fraction of humic materials that is insoluble in an aqueous solution at any pH value. The nature of humin has remained something of an enigma. Despite the fact that it typically comprises 50% or more of the organic carbon in soil, sediment, and peat, it has been the subject of comparatively little research interest. By definition, humic is obtained as the solid residue that remains after centrifugation of the alkali extract of a humus sample. To separate the organic components of humin from the inorganic components, the humin is generally subjected to extensive digestion with a mixture of concentrated hydrofluoric and hydrochloric acids. As a result of this treatment the inorganic material is decomposed, but the organic constituents are also likely to undergo significant changes. The purpose of this research communication is to report on insights into the nature of humin gained from an alternative approach to its isolation and fractionation.

• OSTI ID: 5869501
• Journal Information: Environmental Science and Technology; (USA), Journal Name: Environmental Science and Technology; (USA) Vol. 24:12; ISSN ESTHA; ISSN 0013-936X
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
400102 -- Chemical & Spectral Procedures
54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
540210* -- Environment
Terrestrial-- Basic Studies-- (1990-)
AQUEOUS SOLUTIONS
CHEMICAL ANALYSIS
DISPERSIONS
ENERGY SOURCES
FOSSIL FUELS
FRACTIONATION
FUELS
HUMUS
MEASURING METHODS
MIXTURES
ORGANIC MATTER
PEAT
QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS
SEPARATION PROCESSES
SOILS
SOLUTIONS