F.A.Q.s:
Why hydrogels?
That's an important question, but a better one would be 'Why NOT hydrogels?'
After all, that's what we're attempting to find out. Hydrogels are a very convenient form of liquid storage (for more information, see the 'Hydrogel Backgrounds' page link on the navbar), which we believe may be useful in agriculture.
Aren't hydrogels already used in agriculture, though?
Yes. Hydrogels are currently used as tiny water reservoirs mixed into soils, which can release chemicals beneficial to the plant in slow portions. What this experiment is attempting to find out is whether or not plants can feasibly be grown in nothing but hydrogels, and whether or not those plants do better in soil.
In addition, hydrogels currently in use have the potential to be toxic when broken down, and therefore we see room to improve.
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