Physics of Viscous Bridges in Soil Biological Hotspots

Plant roots and bacteria alter the soil physical properties by releasing polymeric blends into pore space (e.g., extracellular substances mucilage). The mechanisms which these interact with matrix spatial configuration of liquid phase related hydraulic remain unclear. Here, we propose a theory to explain how polymer solutions form one-dimensional filaments two-dimensional interconnected structures spanning across multiple pores. Unlike water, primarily shaped surface tension, connected during drying due their high viscosity. integrity is explained interplay viscosity tension forces (elegantly characterized Ohnesorge number), while formation requires consideration interaction solution solid surfaces external drivers rate). During drying, increases at critical point, when friction between polymers overcomes water absorption polymers, concentration gas-liquid interface asymptotically. At this are deposited as surfaces, such hollow cylinders or surfaces. A model introduced predict structures. Viscosity solution, specific surface, rate key parameters determining transition from one-to Model results in good agreement observed formed porous media drying.