A Comparative Study: The Effects of Different Hydrogel Shapes on Irrigation in Varying Soil Types

For my statistics final class project, I investigated the use of superabsorbent PVA-borate hydrogels as a sustainable irrigation solution for urban agriculture. I conducted experiments across clayey, loamy, and sandy soils, testing how hydrogel shape and soil type affected water retention and release. Using ANOVA, correlation tests, and regression analysis, I evaluated whether different soil–shape combinations influenced irrigation efficiency.

The study found statistically significant differences in water release rates across soil types, with weaker associations for hydrogel shape, suggesting more research is needed for standardization. Beyond technical results, this project deepened my skills in experimental design, statistical inference, and applied data analysis, while reinforcing my passion for applying quantitative methods to real-world sustainability challenges.