While the microwave idea sounds like a possible solution to the soil
sterilization quandary, there are some problems associated with this technology:
1. The soil sample should have a fair amount of water content. Microwave
radiation works by exciting water molecules.
2. Application of the soil sample to short periods (30 s.) of microwave
radiation should quickly raise the temperature, but it will soon fall. To be
safe, soil temperatures should be maintained at high levels (>200 F) for
several hours.
3. Microwave technology is notorious for uneven distribution of energy
dispersal. Thus, there would probably be pockets of soil that was unsterilized
mixed throughout.
4. If you are proposing the use of a kitchen appliance, there may be
undesirable odors given off by the soil sample that would linger in the oven
after removal of the soil. Some family members might not be totally "onboard"
with this application. :-)
We now return you to your regular programming.
Jay Mellon
New Orleans, LA
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