Zoneamento agrogeológico do Chapadão Urucuia e seu entorno

Abstract

Brazil’s dependence on imported fertilizers is a strategic challenge, with 86.1% of agricultural inputs sourced from foreign markets. This vulnerability particularly affects the country’s main agricultural frontiers, such as the western region of Bahia, where the Urucuia Plateau is located. This study focused on the prospecting and evaluation of rocks with potential for use as soil remineralizers (rock powders), emphasizing the identification of regional sources of potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium. Considering the gradual nutrient release typical of these inputs, the research included the development of thematic maps that indicate both the spatial distribution of agrominerals and their degree of reactivity. The methodology integrated chemical, physical, and mineralogical analyses, along with geoprocessing techniques applied to the agrogeological zoning of the Urucuia Plateau and its surroundings. The main highlights were the biotite-schist from the Rio Preto Group, in Formosa do Rio Preto (BA), containing 6.32% K2O, 7.71% MgO, and 4.21% CaO; and the carbonatite from the Angico dos Dias Metacarbonatitic Complex, in Campo Alegre de Lourdes (BA), with 10.8% P2O5 and 12.9% CaO. The analyzed materials presented potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium levels consistent with the criteria established by the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture for remineralizer certification, in addition to low concentrations of potentially toxic elements, ensuring environmental safety and agricultural viability. Beyond promoting sustainable plant nutrition, these regional sources represent a strategic alternative to reduce dependency on external inputs and mitigate risks associated with international fertilizer market crises, strengthening agricultural security in western Bahia.