Design of Capillary Lift Irrigation Model for Hilly Terrain

Background: At present, irrigation in hills relies solely on conventional systems. However, hilly regions pose distinct challenges for irrigation due to their rough terrain and restricted access to conventional water sources. Objectives: To illustrate an irrigation model prototype for hilly regions based on the principle of capillary lift using nanoporous material. Method: The study designs a table-top experimental model for hill irrigation and analyzing its performance based on recorded experimental data of capillary transfer under various confinement condition alongside mathematical modelling to design an on-site irrigation model as well based on this technique. Findings: Experiments and mathematical analysis demonstrate this feasibility in hilly terrains. The developed mathematical scale model for on-site capillary lift irrigation is an outcome of discharge dynamics validated using a precision tabletop model for one-hectare cultivation in hilly terrain. Novelty: While prior applications of this technique have been limited to medical devices and potted plant watering, this study involving scale model extends its scope to large-scale irrigation in challenging landscapes. The findings confirm the potential to design a practical irrigation system for such areas, offering a pioneering and sustainable approach in this domain. Keywords: Barometric Pressure, Capillary, Green Energy, Irrigation, Nanoporous