Improving Water Retention in Sandy Soils with High-Performance Superabsorbents Hydrogel Polymer

Improving the water retention capability of drained and sandy soils is vital for nurturing high-quality soil. This protective measure ensures the conservation of essential nutrients, such as fertilizers and organic matter; maintains soil quality; and prevents erosion. Superabsorbent hydrogels (SAHs) have emerged as promising solutions to boost water retention in sandy soils, typically characterized by a poor water-holding capacity. However, there is a noticeable gap in the existing literature regarding their potential to simultaneously achieve elevated swelling ratio (SR) and water retention ratio (WRR) levels. This study presents innovative SAH systems with the highest reported SR value yet, exceeding 10000 wt %, and remarkable WRR capability explicitly designed for agricultural use. These novel SAHs were synthesized using the chemical cross-linking polymerization method from polyacrylamide (PAM) polymer, employing various PAM ratios through a one-pot hydrothermal vessel method along with diverse drying techniques. The prepared hydrogels were characterized using various techniques, such as FTIR and DSC; unraveling insights into their structural properties; and the kinetics of the swelling process. Notably, these synthesized hydrogels exhibit robustness, maintaining structural integrity even under extreme conditions such as high temperatures or pressures. Our findings suggest immense potential for these hydrogels as soil enhancers in agriculture, offering a sustainable solution to bolster soil quality and nutrient preservation.