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repellency, repeated PoAP use can
worsen the soil hydrophobicity under
these experimental conditions.
Scanning electron microscopy
(SEM) showed sand particles that
were enlarged over 1000 times for
direct observation for treatment
effects (Figure 2). The images
showed that ABP-treated sands
displayed cleaner, more crystalline
particle surfaces with fewer
amorphous organic coatings.
In comparison, PoAP-treated
sand exhibited abundant amorphous
layers, resembling untreated
hydrophobic sands. This visual
observation corroborated with other
findings described above and
indicated a strong sorption of PoAP
monomers onto sand particles.
Collectively, these results
demonstrate that ABP could become
a source of soil hydrophobicity under
certain conditions.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT WETTING AGENT
In summary, this research emphasized the importance of selecting the right
wetting agent for long-term turf management, especially for areas where
periodical drought is expected. Comparing these two chemistries, while both
ABP and PoAP initially improved water movement, their repeated use leads to
divergent outcomes.
ABP consistently reduced soil water repellency and completely restored
wettability in hydrophobic sands. In contrast, PoAP increased soil
hydrophobicity after repeated applications and exposures to extreme heat/
drought. Based on these findings, we recommend superintendents:
1.  Monitor soil moisture closely to prevent extreme dry-down cycles, as it can
intensify water repellency regardless of treatment
2.  Rotate wetting agent chemistries where possible to minimize long-term
buildup of hydrophobic organic coatings.
Disclaimer
This research did not receive any monetary funding or support from any of the
wetting agent companies mentioned in this article. Mentioning the wetting
agent products does not imply support or disapproval of the products by the
University of Missouri. Readers are advised to make their own judgment
regarding the information conveyed by this article. GM
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