Superabsorbent Polymers-A Potential Solution for Irrigation in Agriculture

Superabsorbent polymer, also known as hydrogels are crosslinked polymer which can absorb water much more times than their original weight. Swelling properties of these gels are based on physical and chemical composition as well as properties of liquid being absorbed. It is developed for improving the physical properties of soil and to enhance the soil productivity by increasing water availability for plants. Arid and semi arid regions are facing problem because of uncertain and inadequate rainfall and thus hampering the productivity in agricultural sectors, use of the SAPs in those areas can be able to cope up with these problem and helps in increasing productivity. Without compromising the yield, both water management and water saving can be possible with hydrogels which is not seen with irrigation method. Unlike the traditional hydrogels, now most of the prepared hydrogels are biodegradable and thus are ecofriendly and will not generate any environmental issues, which can used in agricultural sectors. This literature review has been done to understand the properties of hydrogels and their effect on growing plants.