In this work, an innovative cellulose-based superabsorbent polymer (SAP)
was experimentally assessed as an environmentally friendly alternative to acrylate-based
SAPs, for the optimization of water consumption in agriculture. The cellulose-based
SAP was synthesized and tested for its swelling capability in different aqueous media.
The effectiveness of the SAP in agricultural applications was then evaluated by analyzing
its performance after several absorption/desorption cycles, over a period of approximately
80 days, upon addition to different types of soil, i.e., white and red soil, for the cultivation of
two varieties of plants typical of the Mediterranean area (tomatoes and chicory). The results
confirmed that SAP-amended soil can store a considerable amount of water and can
release it gradually to the plant roots when needed. The adoption of the proposed SAP
in cultivations could thus represent a promising solution for the rationalization of water
resources, especially in desert areas.