How AquaBoost Works

AquaBoost and Water

Tiny parts in the AquaBoost molecule act like a microscopic magnet for water.

On a technical level, negatively charged oxygen groups in the AquaBoost molecule attract the partially positive hydrogen atoms of water molecules.

This means the AquaBoost attracts the water and holds it in the root zone for longer.

AquaBoost and Soil

Soil is made up of tiny particles, and AquaBoost can act a bit like a microscopic web or net that helps connect these particles together. Instead of having lots of loose soil particles, they form larger groups called soil aggregates. These aggregates create a network of small spaces, or pores, between them - a bit like the holes in a sponge.

When it rains or we irrigate, water moves into these small spaces. The small spaces help store the water, while at the same time AquaBoost helps the soil hold onto it, preventing the water from draining too quickly or evaporating.

Interaction with Soil Surface

Sometimes, when soil gets very wet and then dries out, the surface can become hard like a crust. This hard crust can make it difficult for new water to enter the soil. AquaBoost helps keep the soil structure more open and porous, allowing water to soak in rather than simply running off the surface.

Availability of Water

AquaBoost helps hold onto water through its attraction to water molecules, but this isn't strong enough to stop drainage completely. Instead, it can slow the movement of water through the soil. In the end, gravity wins the tug-of-war, and the water slowly moves through the soil profile.

As a plant transpires (loses water from its leaves), it creates a powerful pulling force that draws water up from the roots. This pulling force is much stronger than the forces holding water to the AquaBoost. So, the plant can draw the water away from the polymer and up into the plant - the plant wins the tug-of-war.

Linear vs Cross-Linked Polyacrylamide

Some polymer products are made from cross-linked polyacrylamide. These materials can swell up and become like little water-filled jelly crystals. AquaBoost is a linear polyacrylamide. It dissolves in water and forms a highly hydrated film around the soil particles. This helps keep moisture close to the roots, where the roots can access it when they need it.

In simple terms, AquaBoost helps the soil hold onto water, while still allowing the plant to draw that water up when it needs it - helping more of the available water stay in the root zone for longer.