Soil erosion and dust formation are among the most serious environmental problems in arid and semi-arid regions. In countries like Iran, where large areas are characterized by desert climates, dust control and soil stabilization are crucial. A common way to solve this problem is to use oil mulch , which has been used by various organizations for many years. Although oil mulch can provide short-term protection against wind erosion, environmental concerns, high costs, and negative effects on vegetation have led experts to look for more environmentally friendly alternatives.
One option discussed in recent years is the use of electropolymers . These chemicals improve the physical properties of the soil and the strength of particle cohesion. Can electropolymers replace mulch? This article analyzes the advantages, limitations, and scientific merits of this material.
What are electroactive polymers?
Electroactive polymers are water-soluble polymers with positively or negatively charged groups. These groups interact with soil particles, colloids and ions in the environment, improving soil cohesion and reducing fine particle dispersion.
Common types of electroactive polymers include:
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Cationic : positively charged, suitable for soils with a negative surface charge.
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Anions : have a negative charge and are beneficial for some soil types.
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Non-ionic : does not carry a specific charge, but has the ability to form bridges between particles.
In soil and water management, electropolymers are mainly used for water purification, sedimentation of suspended solids, soil erosion control, soil structure improvement, etc.
Traditional lighting and its problems
Oil mulch has been used . for decades as an effective method of soil stabilization: it is distributed on the soil surface, thus forming a wind barrier.
However, the main disadvantages of oil coating are:
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Plant damage : The black, impenetrable surface prevents the plants from germinating and growing.
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Pollution : Oil compounds enter the soil and the food chain.
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High cost and complexity of transportation : The process of sawdust production and transportation requires large infrastructure and high costs.
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Limited durability : Despite its initial strength, it cracks and loses its effectiveness due to exposure to sunlight and mechanical stress.
These problems have led researchers to look for alternatives such as polymers and biocompatible materials.
Mechanism of action of electropolymers in soil stabilization
Electrolytic polymers improve soil stability through the following mechanisms:
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Bridging between soil particles : Long polymer chains can bind individual molecules together to form .stable assemblies
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Reduced dispersion of fine particles : The electrostatic charge of the polymer reduces the repulsion forces between the dirt particles and prevents their dispersion.
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Increased soil permeability and reduced liquefaction : By improving the soil structure, shear strength is increased and wind sensitivity is reduced.
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Ability to bind to organic matter : Electrolytic polymers can be added to fertilizers or irrigation solutions, allowing them to be used in agriculture for two purposes.
Comparison of electrolyte polymers and coatings
There are several important criteria to consider when considering an exchange :
1. Effects on soil stability
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Oil mulch has an immediate physical effect after spraying on and covers the soil.
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Electrolytic polymers must penetrate the soil and create bonds between the particles so that their action is gradual but more stable.
2. Durability
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Oil-based mulch materials are typically effective for 6 months to 2 years.
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Electrolytic polymers can perform similarly or even better, depending on the type, environmental conditions, and degree of biodegradability.
3. Environmental compatibility
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Oil spills can lead to contamination and damage to plants.
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Electrolytic polymers , especially biodegradable ones, have fewer negative effects and can even promote plant growth.
4. Costs and implementation
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Oil chips are expensive to manufacture and transport and require specialized equipment.
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Electrolytic polymers are lightweight and water-soluble and can be transported in tankers or through irrigation systems, reducing operating costs.
5. Weather conditions
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In very hot and dry climates, rapid evaporation can reduce the effectiveness of the electropolymer and necessitate reapplication.
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On the contrary, oil shavings become brittle in the sun.
Globale Forschung und Expertise
Studies conducted in various countries have shown that:
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In China, the use of cationic electropolymers in desert areas has reduced wind erosion by 40–60%.
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Studies in Iran have also shown that some polymers can significantly improve soil stability without negatively affecting vegetation.
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Environmental groups have also touted biodegradable polymers as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based mulch.
JNE Environmental Automated Polymer Processing System Brochure
Limitations and problems
Despite numerous advantages, electroactive polymers also have limitations:
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Raw material costs : High-quality polymers are still more expensive than petroleum-derived materials.
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It is very important to choose the right type of polymer: each soil type reacts to a specific type of electrolyte polymer, and choosing the wrong polymer can be ineffective.
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Biodegradability and chemical stability : Some polymers can decompose when exposed to sunlight or microorganisms, reducing their effectiveness.
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Lack of national regulations : In many countries, there are no specific recommendations for the use of these substances.
The future of research and application
For a wide application of electrolytic polymers as an alternative to coatings, the following steps must be taken:
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Development of biodegradable polymers at a lower cost.
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Conducting large-scale field trials under different climatic conditions.
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Develop national guidelines for safe and effective use.
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By combining electrolytic polymers with natural materials such as sawdust, starch or gelatin, efficiency is improved and costs are reduced.
At last
According to recent research, electrolytic polymers could be a possible alternative to petroleum-based organic mulch for soil stabilization. In addition to reducing wind erosion, polymers have a more environmentally friendly effect and can even promote plant growth. Although the high costs and the need for research are still challenges at present, the future prospects suggest that polymers could play a key role in sustainable desert management.
In other words, we may not be able to say today that electropolymers have completely replaced petroleum-based coatings, but they certainly represent a promising scientific path to a greener and more sustainable future.