27 May 2024 | Priscila Vedovello, Lívia Valentin Sanches, Gabriel da Silva Teodoro, Vinícius Ferraz Majoron, Ricardo Bortoletto-Santos, Caue Ribeiro, Fernando Ferrari Putti
The article provides an overview of the application of polymeric hydrogels in sustainable agriculture. Hydrogels, with their unique water retention and nutrient-release capabilities, offer promising solutions to address water scarcity and soil degradation in agricultural practices. The production methods of hydrogels, including bulk, solution, and suspension polymerization, are discussed, along with the importance of cross-linking for enhancing their properties. Grafting techniques and radiation synthesis are highlighted for their advantages in purity and reduced toxicity. Hydrogels are shown to enhance soil water retention, improve plant growth, and reduce the need for frequent watering, especially in water-scarce regions. The review also covers the classification of hydrogels based on material source, synthesis technique, and polymer network nature, and discusses their preparation methods. The benefits of hydrogels in agriculture, such as increased soil germination, better water absorption, and resistance to salt concentrations, are detailed. Recent research on hydrogel applications in efficient irrigation, fertilizer release, and soil improvement is presented, along with the challenges and future prospects of hydrogel technology in agriculture. The article concludes by emphasizing the potential of hydrogels to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices and food security, while highlighting the need for further research and development to optimize their performance and environmental impact.The article provides an overview of the application of polymeric hydrogels in sustainable agriculture. Hydrogels, with their unique water retention and nutrient-release capabilities, offer promising solutions to address water scarcity and soil degradation in agricultural practices. The production methods of hydrogels, including bulk, solution, and suspension polymerization, are discussed, along with the importance of cross-linking for enhancing their properties. Grafting techniques and radiation synthesis are highlighted for their advantages in purity and reduced toxicity. Hydrogels are shown to enhance soil water retention, improve plant growth, and reduce the need for frequent watering, especially in water-scarce regions. The review also covers the classification of hydrogels based on material source, synthesis technique, and polymer network nature, and discusses their preparation methods. The benefits of hydrogels in agriculture, such as increased soil germination, better water absorption, and resistance to salt concentrations, are detailed. Recent research on hydrogel applications in efficient irrigation, fertilizer release, and soil improvement is presented, along with the challenges and future prospects of hydrogel technology in agriculture. The article concludes by emphasizing the potential of hydrogels to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices and food security, while highlighting the need for further research and development to optimize their performance and environmental impact.