BEIJING: Frost-resistant sand-control technology could transform desertification prevention in cold regions. Chinese researchers have developed a new sand-fixation agent that remains stable in freezing temperatures, providing a breakthrough for areas where traditional methods fail.
Developed by the Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources (NIEER) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the innovative agent modifies cellulose acetate-based waterborne polyurethane with glycerol triglycidyl ether and glycerin, enhancing frost resistance. Unlike conventional chemical stabilisers designed for hot deserts, this formula performs effectively in cold, high-altitude deserts like the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau and Mongolian Plateau.
A key advantage is its eco-friendly composition. Derived from crop straw cellulose, the agent naturally degrades, releasing only water vapour, ammonia, and carbon dioxide, ensuring no environmental harm. Field applications in Gonghe County, Qinghai Province, proved its effectiveness in stabilising shifting sands and encouraging plant growth, supporting ecological restoration efforts.
The agent remains stable even at -20°C, addressing the challenge of low-temperature resistance in desert regions. This is crucial, as harsh cold environments require materials that not only bind sand particles but also allow oxygen permeability and moisture retention, without affecting seed germination.
Liu Benli, an NIEER researcher, highlighted the need for sustainable solutions that can combat desertification while fostering vegetation recovery. The Frost-resistant sand-control breakthrough could pave the way for industrial-scale production of environmentally friendly sand-control materials, benefiting both China’s ecological conservation and global desert management efforts.
