Magnetized Water Irrigation Alleviates Emitter Clogging of a Drip Fertigation System

Abstract

Drip fertigation systems are a new technology to alleviate water shortages and improve fertilizer use efficiency. Emitter clogging is the main obstacle to their application. However, few efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly methods are available to alleviate clogging. In this study, we explored the effects of magnetized water irrigation on emitter clogging at different fertilization levels. Field experiments were conducted to study the patterns and clogging characteristics of drip irrigation systems during two planting seasons. The results showed that with an increase in fertilizer application, clogging of the emitter was aggravated. Magnetization treatment effectively relieved emitter clogging, which increased the average discharge variation rate (Dra) by 4.1–29.0% and 2.6–64.4%, respectively, and decreased the dry weight (DW) of the clogging substance by 14.0–64.6% and 15.0–75%, respectively, in the two planting seasons, compared with that of the non-magnetization treatment. The composition of the main clogging substances was estimated using X-rays; the results showed that quartz, silicate, and carbonate were the dominant substances that induced emitter clogging. Magnetization treatment can reduce the content of clogging substances and is thus a possible mechanism to alleviate clogging. Our study demonstrated that water magnetization treatment is an effective, chemical-free treatment method with great potential for clogging control in drip fertigation systems.