An integrated bio-geotechnical approach for sustainable desertification control: Synergistic mechanisms of enzymatic mineralization and ecological restoration.

Abstract

Sand and dust storms (SDS) are severe geo-environmental hazards that threaten ecosystem stability and land productivity in arid regions. Enzyme-induced carbonate precipitation (EICP) is highly effective for SDS control and exhibits better ecological compatibility. Nevertheless, the specific interaction between engineering stabilization and vegetation restoration remains inadequately understood, which restricts further progress. This study evaluated an integrated EICP and vegetation treatment for rapid surface stabilization and early ecological restoration. The effects of soybean powder concentrations, reagent concentration, and mixed solution dosage on crust properties, water retention, soil chemistry, plant growth, and wind erosion resistance were systematically examined. Under clean airflow at 25 m/s, the untreated control exhibited a cumulative wind erosion ratio of 90.2%, whereas EICP treatment substantially reduced sand loss. The formed crust also reduced evaporation and maintained higher moisture contents during early seedling establishment. Vegetation decreased residual organic carbon and NH4+-N, indicating its contribution as a biological nitrogen sink. However, excessive treatment intensity increased crust resistance, conductivity, residual ammonium, and delayed seedling emergence. A treatment using 0.25 M reagent, 50 g/L soybean powder, and 3 L/m2 mixed solution provided the best overall balance among the tested conditions. These findings demonstrate the early stage of a complementary process in which EICP provides immediate protection while developing vegetation contributes nitrogen uptake, root reinforcement, and surface roughness.