Efficiency of superabsorbents in improving water productivity

Agricultural residues and various other materials are currently being used as additives to improve the physical and chemical properties of soil. Iran is located in an arid and semiarid region, so using strategies to reduce water use will reduce the problem water scarcity. The use of superabsorbent to increase water uptake and retention is one of the solutions that have been applied to improve water productivity in recent years. In this study, four types of superabsorbents (A200, Trachothem, Herbazorb and Stacosorb) and six soil samples (categorized in three groups) from the southern slopes of the Alborz  were used. In the laboratory research phase, transparent plexiglass cylinders were used for monitoring changes. The results showed that the addition of superabsorbent to three soil samples increased soil moisture uptake compared to the control treatment. The percentage of moisture uptake in the treatment using 25% A200 in soil was 50% more than other superabsorbent. In the field phase of the research, the combined use of a water catchment system and superabsorbent was investigated. The results showed that the use of superabsorbent in the rain catchment resulted in about 75% increase in water uptake and retention. The rate of water absorption into the absorbent is proportional to the ambient temperature and inversely proportional to the size of the absorbent particles. The results of the field survey showed that water retention was increased and 75% of precipitation loss was prevented. Therefore, simultaneously using water catchment systems and absorbents in soil is recommended for improving water productivity.