Developing natural based biodegradable sand barriers for mitigation of aeolian sands

Wind erosion sediments pose significant environmental challenges, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. Over recent decades, various methods have been developed to stabilize sand dunes. Current research emphasizes wind profile assessment for sand stabilization, focusing on material properties, ease of implementation, and sand tarping potential. This study evaluated biodegradable materials based on indices such as sand prevention efficiency, sand flux, concave surface development, and erosion-deposition rates in central Iran's arid environment. Measurements were conducted over a year using stakes and sediment traps monthly. Results showed hemp net barriers had higher sand prevention efficiency (0.612) than other treatments, highlighting hemp's potential as a sustainable, locally sourced alternative. While no significant difference was observed compared to PLA¹ net barriers, hemp's efficiency was about 31.33 % higher than reed stem barriers. Concerning sand flux, PLA barriers performed best, showing 185.5 % increase over the control, though without significant difference from hemp barriers. Sediment pattern analysis revealed both PLA and hemp barriers effectively promoted concave surface profiles and uniform sediment deposition. Average sediment heights were 14.17 cm (PLA), 8.96 cm (hemp), and 3.09 cm (reed). The reed stem barrier had the least sediment, with 71.90 % in the 0-4 cm height class. Based on environmental conditions and these indices, hemp net barriers are proposed as affordable, eco-friendly solutions for controlling wind erosion and stabilizing sand dunes in resource-limited arid regions, leveraging local materials to enhance practicality, sustainability, and reduce costs.