Measuring cellulose decomposition using Benchkote-paper,for the estimation of soil pollution with copper

Summary Cellulose decomposition in paddy soil polluted by copper was determined by the use of polyethylene-backed absorbent paper (Benchkote) as a source of cellulose. It was shown that the paper is a suitable material for measuring the rate of cellulose decomposition. Correlations were found between copper content in the soil, the growth of rice plants and the cellulose decomposition rate.Acknowledgment. Gratitude is extend to Dr M.H. Martin, Department of Botany, University of Bristol, England, for suggesting the use of Benchkote paper.