Tech Talk: Integrating Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy Into a High-Throughput Soil Fertility Laboratory

CropLife Staff By CropLife Staff|September 9, 2026
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How can advanced spectroscopy help labs analyze soil carbon faster, reduce costs, and scale to meet the growing demands of carbon agriculture? In this Tech Talk, Patrick Freeze, Outreach Scientist and Applied Research Lead at Ward Laboratories, discusses how the company is using mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy to modernize soil testing and carbon analysis. As demand for carbon verification continues to rise, Ward Labs is exploring new ways to improve laboratory efficiency while maintaining high-quality results. Learn how MIR spectroscopy enables rapid analysis of soil carbon and other key soil properties, reducing the need for time-consuming wet chemistry workflows. Freeze also highlights Ward Labs’ collaboration with the USDA Kellogg Soil Survey Laboratory and discusses the potential for future applications in plant sap analysis, nutrient density testing, environmental samples, and more.

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