Question marks are superfluous

Critics are dubious about the weathering rates of olivine.

But more studies are showing that under natural conditions, olivine works. It doesn’t take decennia, let alone centuries, before the CO2- reduction effects are noticeable.

Nature is surprising

Weathering rates in the olivine areas in Conakry (Guinea) and Jacupiranga (Brazil) are promising. Measurements and calculations indicate a weathering of at least 10 micron in 5 years. Even higher weathering rates occur in mine debris of similar rock in British Columbia and Cyprus.

Science helps

A study by the University of Wageningen confirms these results.

Pot trials under imitated biotic conditions give better results than sterile laboratory trials. The cause is now clear : fungi on the root of plants use acid to dissolve nutrients, causing the olivine to weather more rapidly.

The conclusion : Olivine under biotic conditions weathers 10 to 100 times more rapidly than under (sterile) laboratory conditions.