The Evolution of Soil Mineralogy

Abstract

Soil mineralogy is the study of natural inorganic compounds with definite physical, chemical, and, in some instances, crystalline properties that encompass the fields of physics, chemistry, geology, biology, agronomy, and soil science. Soil mineralogy has a rich history that involves the study of the soil through clay particles, physical properties, chemical properties, soil genesis, alteration, and degradation. The history of soil science is rife with mineralogy's role in developing the soil profile concept, soil classification system, factors of soil formation, and soil morphology in pedological concepts. The analytical or technological approaches historically used include X‐ray diffraction, mineralogical property analysis, thin sections, and certain soil fertility parameters associated with mineralogy, such as cation exchange capacity (CEC) and pH. Contemporary analytical approaches include advanced X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy, and infrared spectroscopy. Soil mineralogy is important for soil science, geomorphology, environmental science, engineering and mining, oil, and gas applications. The future of soil mineralogy points toward advancements of current technology along with expanding applications such as the study of minerals from nearby planets and beyond.