Polycomplex Formulations for the Protection of Soils against Degradation

The review discusses the application of polymers for the control of soil degradation caused by wind and water erosion. The background of the problem, current situation with the soil erosion in the world and Russian Federation, traditional methods for controlling erosion processes, and natural and synthetic soil amendments (soil conditioners) are described. Particular attention is paid to t traditional conditioners, polyacrylamide and its derivatives as well as conditioners obtained from interpolyelectrolyte complexes, the products of interaction of oppositely charged ionic polymers. The results of the laboratory experiments, field tests, and practical application of the conditioners are presented. A new type of soil conditioners based on interpolyelectrolyte complexes is described in detail, and the prospects of their application in antierosion technologies are considered.