Polymeric Biocomposite for Revegetation of Soil

Defense training activities can result in reduction of vegetation cover, disturbance of soil surface and crusts, and degradation of soil aggregates, making the land more vulnerable to wind erosion. Currently, petro-polymers are being extensively studied for soil stabilization and remediation. These polymers are expensive and possibly dangerous to health and the environment. Biopolymers are promising in this regard as they not only can stabilize the soil, but also degrade into benign products, that beyond not harming the environment, may actually add to nutrients in the soil, thus hastening vegetation. MMI will develop a biopolymer biofiber composite that will not only stabilize the soil, but also act as a substrate for simultaneous revegetation. Phase I studies will focus on providing preliminary (proof-of-concept) data for methods of biopolymer/seed delivery based hydroseeding. It will be proven that the composite will prevent sediment transport in runoff water, bind soil well, preventing dust emissions, and enable rapid growth of grass cover. Based on the results of the preliminary testing and the application design schemes, Phase II will focus on pilot-scale test for application and evaluation of biopolymer for rapid re-vegetation of heavily disturbed soils in areas where soil disturbances contribute significantly topsoil loss, excessive dust emissions, and/or reduced soil fertility. This will be followed by technology transfer for large-scale field use.