This study presents an alternative procedure for the extraction of micronutrients from soil samples for fertility evaluation. Samples from an interdisciplinary program for soil analysis with different physical and chemical characteristics were subjected to DTPA extraction using focused microwave radiation energy. The microwave-assisted procedure (10 min) proved to be remarkably time-saving for Cu, Mn, and Zn extraction when compared to the time consume of conventionally prepared samples (120 min), using mechanical stirring at room temperature. The development of a single procedure for simultaneous extraction of Fe was not possible, however, due to excessive Fe release during the heating process. Nevertheless, the feasibility of microwave-assisted procedures in routine analyses was validated.
microwave-assisted extraction; open flasks; fertility evaluation; soil