Bibliography: leaves 134-148. The objectives of this study are to determine if and how inorganic matrices influence organic matter decomposition with particular emphasis on the biochemical changes which occur as decomposition progresses. The influence of inorganic matrices (sand, sand + kaolin and loamy sand) on the decomposition of straw and Eucalyptus litter during incubations was followed by various chemical and spectroscopic methods to aid in the understanding of the mechanism of physical protection of organic matter in soils.

Bibliography: leaves 134-148. / xi, 148 leaves : ill. ; 30 cm. / Title page, contents and abstract only. The complete thesis in print form is available from the University Library. / The objectives of this study are to determine if and how inorganic matrices influence organic matter decomposition with particular emphasis on the biochemical changes which occur as decomposition progresses. The influence of inorganic matrices (sand, sand + kaolin and loamy sand) on the decomposition of straw and Eucalyptus litter during incubations was followed by various chemical and spectroscopic methods to aid in the understanding of the mechanism of physical protection of organic matter in soils. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Adelaide, Dept. of Soil Science, 1997