A new material for desert sand stabilization and vegetation restoration modified from straw pulping spent liquor

A new technique for sand stabilization and vegetation restoration by using "Lignin Sand Stabilization Material (LSSM)" is introduced. LSSM is prepared by modifying technical lignin in spent liquor from straw pulping by chemicals, which can be applied for desert sand stabilization together with virescence actions simultaneously. Field studies prove that LSSM is effective in stabilizing the fugitive dunes, making the arenaceous plants survive and the bare dune vegetative. The advisable solution concentration is 2%similar to 4%, and the optimum field spraying quantity is 2.5 L-m(2). Sand crust was formed within 24 h after spraying LSSM on the sand surface. As result moisture could be reduced from evaporation that consequently favors seed germination, plant growth, accumulation of biomass, and final restoration of vegetation. Organic matter and total nitrogen in desert sand are also increased after LSSM being sprayed 2 to 3 years. Sand could be fixed continuously by combining the annual herbs and the perennial shrubs. The new technique is worthwhile to be popularized because it provides not only a new way for desertification control but also for "green production" of paper mills.