Optimization of preparation conditions and performance of a new degradable soil water retaining agent

AbstractUsing polyaspartic acid (PAsp) and bentonite (BT) as the main raw materials, a new type of degradable soil water retaining agent (PAsp-AA/BT) was synthesized by microwave radiation. The optimum synthesis conditions and comprehensive properties of PAsp-AA/BT were discussed and the structure and surface characteristics of PAspsp-AA/BT were characterized by FTIR, SEM, XRD and TGA in the paper. The results showed that the optimum synthesis conditions of PAsp-AA/BT were as follows: the dosages of polyaspartic acid (PAsp), bentonite (BT), initiator potassium persulfate, crosslinking agent N,N′-methylene bisacrylamide was 5, 3, 0.3, 0.03%, respectively, the neutralization degree of acrylic acid was 75%, and the microwave power was 490W. Under this condition, the absorption ratio of the synthesized PAspsp-AA/BT in deionized water and 0.9% NaCl solution was 953 and 164 g/g, respectively. The synthesized PAsp-AA/BT had a high water absorption rate, good water retention and repeated water absorption, and the degradation rate in soil within 30 days reached 32.75%, with good degradation effect. The analysis of SEM, FT-IR, XRD and TGA showed that: the surface of PAsp-AA/BT was rough and had obvious pore structure, which was conducive to the diffusion of water molecules; polyaspartic acid, bentonite and acrylic acid were polymerized; the cross-linking structure was formed between polyaspartic acid, bentonite and acrylic acid; the product of PASP-AA/BT had good thermal stability. This study provides a new soil water retaining agent, which is helpful for the better development of soil water retaining agent research.