Determining the Water Absorption and Retention of Biodegradable Hydrogels of Differing Compositions

Abstract

This research addresses the need for sustainable water management in agriculture by testing biodegradable hydrogels made from natural materials: agar and methyl cellulose (MEC). Focused on eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic counterparts, this project aims to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices, addressing water scarcity and environmental pollution. Three hydrogels—agar, MEC, and a combination of both—were evaluated for water absorption, air-water loss, and soil-water retention. Insights into their performance under two conditions were gained through experimentation, contributing valuable information to sustainable water management in agriculture. When the hydrogels were soaked in water and tested for water absorption in an air environment, the MEC hydrogel demonstrated the best performance with an average relative water absorption of approximately 66.9%. In soil-water conservation tests, the agar hydrogel exhibited the least water loss, with an average relative change in water of approximately -48.1%, outperforming the other hydrogels. Despite its initial poor performance in an air environment, likely due to its liquid state, the agar hydrogel’s effectiveness in true irrigation conditions is anticipated based on its performance in the soil environment. The quick gel formation of agar is not critical in real agricultural environments. While MEC is more common in commercial use due to its strong gel-forming ability, agar’s potential can be enhanced with different formulations that promote gel formation, thereby improving water retention in agricultural settings. This project provides valuable insights into the application of biodegradable hydrogels for sustainable water management in agriculture, highlighting the potential of natural materials to address critical environmental challenges.