Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy for soil organic matter analysis

Abstract

Abstract The study of soil organic matter (SOM) can benefit from the use of Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, an analytical method that complements traditional fractionation and extraction methods. This review provides guidance on the use of diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform (DRIFT) in the mid‐infrared region (MIR: 4000–400 cm −1 ). Two distinct applications of DRIFT spectroscopy are reviewed: soil organic matter (1) characterization and (2) quantification. Characterization of SOM involves the qualitative to semi‐quantitative measurement of functional groups that constitute organic matter, and quantification employs chemometrics to predict fractions of SOM. Guidance on decision‐making in how methods are conducted based on sample type and research question, and on interpretation of results are provided.