NCC-assisted tissueponic for terrestrial and Lunar Martial farming

Participant

Prof. Dr. Sherif Shawki Zaki Hindi

Entity

Center of Excellence in Environmental Studies (CEES)

Entity Type

Research Center | مركز بحثي

Project Type

Registered Patent | براءة اختراع مسجلة

Technical Readiness Level

TRL 9

Contact

sshindi166@gmail.com
566760086

Project Description
Saving irrigation water, along with the process of stabilizing sand dunes, by woody trees and perennials is a vital environmental goal to provide water and food, support biodiversity, and stabilize ecosystems and protect them from erosion and flooding. These tree species have evolved unique adaptations to thrive in harsh environments where other tree species might struggle to survive. By introducing microtubes that emerge from the lateral tubes into the xylem tissues of monocotyledonous stems to supply water directly, a new dimension in drip irrigation has been achieved. This new method is called tissue irrigation because the water is applied directly to the xylem tissues rather than being pumped through the soil. This irrigation system is supposed to provide trees with all the water they need, even with the limited evaporation and seepage that occurs with conventional drip irrigation. According to the study, crop water requirements could be reduced by 96%, 65%, and 50%, compared to surface, sprinkler, and drip irrigation systems, respectively. The goal of this new irrigation technology was to efficiently couple the suction of plant tissues to the water supply from the microtubes. This new approach has been shown to require no energy. Since the amount of absorption into the tissues, which depends on the different degrees of vapor pressure deficiency experienced by the leaves, directly controls the movement of water in the tissues. This eliminates the need for an operating head. Tissue irrigation has been shown to be a very inexpensive, energy-free, climate-controlled, cost-effective drip irrigation technique that can be easily used on large-stemmed perennial monocotyledons.
Advantages of novel study can be concluded as trees with extensive root systems, such as mangroves, mesquite, and acacia, can grow deep into the sand, anchoring themselves and preventing erosion. Their roots can also trap wind-blown sand, reducing sediment transport. Furthermore, branches and twigs can act as "fences" or "barriers" that catch wind-blown sand, slowing down its movement and reducing sediment transport. This helps to build up a sand-free zone around the tree. Moreover, decaying leaf litter from trees can contribute to soil formation, increasing soil depth and fertility. This can support the growth of other plants and microorganisms, enhancing ecosystem diversity. Also, sand-fixing trees can create habitat for a wide range of animals, such as insects, reptiles, and small mammals. These animals rely on the tree's structure for shelter, food, and breeding grounds. Concerning ecosystem engineering, trees can modify their environment through their growth patterns, creating microclimates that benefit other organisms. For example, the shade provided by a sand-fixing tree can reduce soil temperature and humidity, creating a more favorable environment for other plants. Also, in coastal areas, sand-fixing trees like mangroves play a crucial role in protecting against erosion and storm surges. Their extensive root systems help stabilize the shoreline, reducing the impact of waves and tides. Regarding environmental impact, eco-friendly method due to the health hazards related to acetic acid, and for technical impact, simple and effective machinery can be used. Concerning economic impact, the invention is effective and more profit.
Based on the above-mentioned information, the tissueponic invention is suitable for terrestrial, Lunar and Martial farming.
Awards & Recognition
The Patent and Scientific Discoveries Reward in 2020 granted from the King Abdullaziz University (KAU) from Deanship of Scientific Research and Vice Presidency for Business and Knowledge Creativity
Project Resources
Project Images/Documents:
No project resources or links available for this project.
Exhibition Information
Will Display Prototype:

Yes

Presentation Methods:

Prototype | نموذج عيني, Printed Poster | ملصق مطبوع

Login Required

Please log in with your KAU email to evaluate this project.