Constructing the Columns and the Mesh System for Leachate Collection to Study Mineral Weathering

To begin, construct the refrigerator setup for the leachate collection. Take the PVC column to incubate rock powder and soil organisms. Also, acquire middle rings to hold columns above the funnels.

Position the rings a few centimeters from the bottom of the columns. Acquire material to create a mesh system at the bottom of the columns to filter the leachate. Place the 20-micrometer mesh at the bottom of the column and add a one-centimeter layer of plastic beads over this mesh.

Next, place a 10-micrometer mesh on top of the 20-micrometer mesh. Secure the meshes in place using two cable ties. Tighten them firmly and remove excess ties by cutting their edges.

The setup is now ready to be filled with the organomineral mixture and inoculated with soil organisms.