Paper Chromatography as applied to compost & soil testing is a qualitative test.It gives an overall view of the biological activity of the soil or compost (i.e., whether it is living or dead).It will also indicate the amount of humification that has taken place, as compared to the raw (non-humified) organic matter & the extent to which the compost or soil has mineralized.Use in conjunction with the other tests outlined in the Luebke process to give a more complete picture of soil health and/or compost quality.