Utilization of agro-waste-derived cellulose for eco-friendly hydrogel production in irrigation management

Abstract Water scarcity and irregular rainfall pose significant challenges to irrigation, especially for small-scale farmers. This study presents the development of an eco-friendly, cellulose-based hydrogel using agricultural waste such as sugarcane bagasse and pea peels aimed at improving soil moisture retention. Cellulose was extracted via alkali treatment, aligning with principles of waste valorization and the circular economy. The hydrogel was synthesized using carboxymethyl cellulose sodium (CMCNa) and xanthan gum with citric acid as a biodegradable crosslinker. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC’s), obtained through acid hydrolysis, were incorporated to enhance structural integrity. The hydrogel was characterized through Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). It demonstrated excellent swelling capacity, sustained moisture retention, and biodegradability. Soil amended with the hydrogel retained 67 % of moisture after 15 days compared to 50 % in control soil and supported enhanced plant growth (26.9 cm of height vs. 20.7 cm in control). Biodegradability tests indicated 20 % degradation within 2 weeks. These results show that the hydrogel offers a cost-effective and sustainable approach to irrigation management, with strong potential for application in drought-prone agricultural areas.