Prevention and treatment of drip emitter clogging: a review of various innovative methods

Abstract

Various new and innovative methods of prevention and treatment of emitter clogging were demonstrated by researchers in recent years. A total of nine such innovative approaches were reviewed, classifying them under three broad categories, viz., physical, chemical and biological methods. Though flushing of laterals is a known method, it was found that increasing its frequency and at higher pressures improved the emission rate and uniformity of the emitters significantly. When Treated Waste Water (TWW) is used for irrigation, flushing with fresh water after every five irrigations effectively removed the emitter clogging. Among the various physical methods reviewed, use of MERUS ring, application of pulsating pressure with triangular wavefront and ultrasound treatment were found to be effective in removing composite clogging problem in drip emitters. Among the chemical methods, fertigation using Urea Phosphate (UP) at low concentrations for longer periods reduced the pH of irrigation water and contributed to the removal of chemical precipitates from the lateral pipes and emitters. Use of antagonist Bacillus bacterial strains helped in removing not only CaCO3 precipitation but also biofouling due to the use of TWW in the drip systems. However, this method needs to be further developed and optimized for its effectiveness and replicability.

Eficiencia de un sistema de fertirrigación en la aplicación de un bioestimulante a base de microalgas Phyco Plus usando filtros de malla y anillos

“…Luego de los tratamientos de fertirriego, se debe eliminar los materiales de obstrucción, una vez que se depositan en las zonas de flujo de los emisores, por medio del lavado de los laterales de riego [9]. Por otra parte, la condición límite requiere el cálculo de las fuerzas de fricción utilizando la longitud de deslizamiento del fluido en los filtros, por lo que se recomienda estudiar la adhesividad de la mezcla de la dosis de microalgas con el agua y justificar la menor resistencia con respecto al filtro de mallas utilizado [10].…”

Revolutionizing Rice Farming: Maximizing Yield with Minimal Water to Sustain the Hungry Planet

“…The quality of the irrigation water can impact the effectiveness of drip fertigation. High levels of dissolved salts, bicarbonates, or other impurities can lead to clogging of the emitters or reduced fertilizer uptake by plants [43]. The timing and rate of fertilizer application through drip fertigation must be carefully adjusted based on the crop stage and nutrient requirements.…”

“…Energy requirements: Drip irrigation systems require energy for pumping and filtration, which can increase production costs and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions [45]. Clogging: Clogging of drip system due to the buildup of sediment, organic matter, or mineral deposits in the emitters or filters reduces the effectiveness of the system, leading to uneven application of fertilizers and water [43]. Water quality: Poor quality irrigation water requires additional treatment or management.…”