The Design and Application of Non-Pressure Infiltrating Irrigation in Desertification Control

• Main Authors: Yongping Qu, Zengzhi Zhang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2020-02-01
• Series: Sustainability
• Subjects: desertification; sand fixation; psammophytes; irrigation; soil moisture; self-dynamic regulation
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/12/4/1547

The key restriction factor of desertification is water control. Non-pressure infiltrating irrigation was invented aimed at the efficient use of water, and its core technology is the key water-conducting material prepared by montmorillonite and polyacrylamide. In this study, both the water absorption and desorption performances of the key material were tested, and then the binding condition of the water-conducting materials and the fiber substrate was also studied. Lastly, the water infiltrating performances and its application in deserts were tested. Non-pressure infiltrating irrigation could self-regulate the water conducting speed according to the external soil <i>deserticola</i>, but also significantly reduce water consumption. The results provide a reference for the application of this new water-saving irrigation technology, which could play an important role in desertification control.