Humic Acids Details

Humic acids (HAs) comprise a mixture of weak aliphatic (carbon chains) and aromatic (carbon rings) organic acids which are not soluble in water under acid conditions but are soluble in water under alkaline conditions. Humic acids consist of that fraction of humic substances that are precipitated from aqueous solution when the pH is decreased.

Humic acids (HAs) are termed polydisperse because of their variable chemical features. From a three dimensional aspect these complex carbon containing compounds are considered to be flexible linear polymers that exist as random coils with cross linked bonds.

On average 35% of the humic acid (HA) molecules are aromatic (carbon rings), while the remaining components are in the form of aliphatic (carbon chains) molecules. The molecular size of humic acids (HAs) range from approximately 10,000 to 100,000. Humic acid (HA) polymers readily bind clay minerals to form stable organic clay complexes. Peripheral pores in the polymer are capable of accommodating (binding) natural and synthetic organic chemicals in a lattice (clathrate) type arrangements.

Humic acids (HAs) readily form salts with inorganic trace mineral elements. An analysis of extracts of naturally occurring humic acids (HAs) will reveal the presence of over 60 different mineral elements present. These trace elements are bound to humic add molecules in a form that can be readily utilized by various living organisms. As a result humic acids (HAs) function as important ion exchange and metal complexing (chelating) systems.

• Builds a stronger root system by increasing root respiration and root formation.
• Increases the Cation Exchange Capacity of the soil and facilitates nutrient absorption
• Great source of energy for beneficial soil organisms, which influence both soil fertility and plant health.
• Improves aeration of soil and water retention in heavy and compact soils.
• Prevents water and nutrient losses in light sandy soils.
• Healthier roots hold soil, minimizing erosions
• When added directly to soil it improves its quality and ability to grow crops
• When added to urea, fertiliser and lime it improves their performance
• When added to seeds it improves their strike rate and encourages root growth