Field evaluation of a polymer sealant for canal seepage reduction

A large amount of the water diverted for irrigated agriculture seeps from earthen canals during its conveyance to fields. Besides a shortfall in availability, variety environmental and economic damages are caused by canal seepage . Polymer sealants provide an economical alternative permanent liners reducing temporarily. Field studies polymer sealant linear anionic polyacrylamide (LAPAM) conducted on two Colorado, USA, Sindh, Pakistan, reveal potential usefulness LAPAM substantially lower losses. application rates three experiments Colorado were 14.2, 18.3, 12.1 kg per ha wetted perimeter area, was 12.4 kg/ha Pakistan. Flowing balance tests show decline 69–100% period up months after application. Uncertainty analysis pre- post-application indicates 85% likelihood that reduction some magnitude occurred. Guidelines presented conducting further other systematically determine impact several factors influence control effectiveness. • Canal measured with flowing tests. Linear field-tested control. reduces 69–100%. conducted.