Polysaccharide Hydrogels with Waste Wool Fibre as Matrix for Potential Use as CRF Fertiliser

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Materials Science
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Climate change poses challenges to food security, leading to overuse of water and fertilizers.
• Sustainable agricultural practices are crucial to mitigate environmental impact and ensure food production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the incorporation of waste sheep wool fibers into hydrogels.
• To develop a stable material for improved water retention and as a matrix for fertilizers.
• To assess the potential of wool-fiber-hydrogel composites in sustainable agriculture.

Main Methods:

• Evaluation of swelling degree in alginate-based hydrogel matrices.
• Analysis of hydrogel stability and water bonding using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC).
• Microstructural assessment using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy.
• Evaluation of soil water retention.

Main Results:

• Successful incorporation of wool fibers into hydrogel matrices was achieved.
• Wool fibers created a porous composite structure, enhancing water penetration.
• The developed material demonstrated potential for improved water retention in soil.
• Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) confirmed material stability.

Conclusions:

• Waste sheep wool fibers can be effectively integrated into hydrogels.
• The resulting composite material offers enhanced water retention properties.
• This innovation presents a viable solution for sustainable fertilizer materials in agriculture.