Halloysite Nanoclay Polymer Composite: Synthesis, Characterization and Effect on Water Retention Behaviour of Soil

Going with the theme of more crops per drop, halloysite nanotube polymer composites superabsorbent is synthesized for promotion of rain fed agriculture. The synthesized composites were characterized by Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Effect of graded percentage of halloysite nanoclay addition with respect to water sorption of composites has been studied along with its effect on water retention behaviour of soil. Peak of halloysite nano tube diminishes at 7.72 Ao and broadens at 4.45Ao after polymerization reaction indicating both internal and external surface of clay had been involved in polymerization reaction. Porous morphology of superabsorbent has been confirmed by SEM. Addition of halloysite nanoclay during polymerization reaction has increased water sorption capacity of polymer composites. Maximum water sorption was observed in composites with 7% clay loading. Polymer composite treated soil has 4% to 6% more available water and higher soil moisture regime as compared to control (untreated) soil.