Role of micro-nanobubble water aeration on emitter clogging and uniformity of drip irrigation system

Abstract

Drip irrigation system (DIS) is widely adopted around the world. Whereas the surge in global food demand has heightened the dire increase in technological advancements in conventional DIS. Emitter clogging severely restricts the uniformity and service life of DIS’s, hindering their wider adoption and application. Micro-nano bubble (MNB) technology significantly delays emitter clogging rates and enhances system performance through its triple anti-clogging mechanisms: physical drag reduction, chemical crystallization inhibition, and biological regulation. This paper is started by reviewing MNB technology, the technique of its generation, and the physicochemical factors that help it work in lessening the clogging agents like the biofilms, suspended particles, and precipitates. It proceeds to discuss the nature of emitter clogging and factors that lead to the same, like physical, chemical and even biological; it then comments on how the MNB water can counter these actions. The specific focus is made on how MNBs affect the performance of emitters and uniformity of the system. Although the research points towards better longevity of the emitter as well as better distribution uniformity, the review also finds notable contributions gaps, such as the lack of long-term field data, standard evaluation methods, etc. Through a review of the existing literature, this paper is an attempt to establish untapped potential of the MNB technology in conventional DIS and to provide a comprehensive guide for future researchers.