ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the results of research on stonemeal (rock powder) technology that has been developed at the University of Brasilia (UnB), Brazil, for almost two decades. The main objective of this chapter is to present the principles, methodology, results, and regulatory aspects concerning the addition of crushed rocks-which contain a wide variety of nutrients/elements-as a mechanism to achieve a positive change on fertility of weathered or depleted soils. This chapter discusses geochemical, mineralogical, and physical parameters that are important tools for identi‹cation of rocks with the most adequate composition for use in soil remineralization or rejuvenation processes and methodological procedures related to the understanding and use of rock dust (also known as agrominerals). Pedological and agricultural production aspects will be presented and discussed as well. The results obtained from the research in Brazil show the potential of stonemeal as an important alternative to ensure sustainable agricultural production, contributing not only to the improvement of both nutritional and environmental security levels in Brazil but also to the reduction of the country’s dependence on the import of major chemicals that make up NPK formulations, which have been in the last decade around 70% imported materials. The use of crushed rocks promotes a more appropriate use for materials discarded as by-products of mineral exploration-a fact that, in the Brazilian scenario, is highly signi‹cant since those by-products may become inputs for the agricultural sector, enhancing the formation of mineral and agriculture clusters.
