Elimination of lime causing clogging in emitters by chemical methods in drip irrigation

Emitter clogging is one of the most serious problems facing users of drip irrigation systems using poor irrigation water and groundwater. It can affect negatively irrigation system performance and crop yield. The objectives of this study were to to determine the appropriate HCl amount (2.5, 5, 10, 500 and 1000 ppm) and whether these acid rates could open the clogged emitters (25, 50 and 100%) with additional CaCO3 or not. Firstly, laterals were filled with water without using any pomp, then water-filled laterals were inversed and placed on the ground under the sun. But, it was realized that there were no clogging using that method. Therefore, based on calculated Langelier saturation index, lime-water was used. After the desired clogging, water with acid mixture were injected into the system and water samples were collected one in five meters for each lateral. Chemical analysis was carried out for each sample. The results of the study showed that 2.5, 5 and 10 ppm acid rates could not sufficiently open the clogged emitters. The highest percentages of opening were obtained in 1000 ppm with 40.91 for 25% clogged laterals.   Key words: Drip irrigation, HCl application, Langelier saturation index, water quality