Detection of agriculturally relevant lime concentrations in soil using mid-infrared spectroscopy

•Accurate and rapid method to measure low concentrations (>0.5%) of inorganic carbon established.•Detection and prediction of inorganic carbon can be used to measure agricultural lime in soils.•Various lime sources can be detected and measured in different soil types and depths.•This method can be used to monitor lime movement and assist with management of acidic soils.•Infrared Spectroscopy approach is a viable alternative to traditional laboratory methods.