WO2002032210A1

WO2002032210A1 - Mulch composition and method

Info

Publication number: WO2002032210A1
Application number: PCT/US2000/041178
Authority: WO
Inventors: Joseph Paternoster; Harold Jensen
Original assignee: Driwater, Inc.
Priority date: 2000-10-16
Filing date: 2000-10-16
Publication date: 2002-04-25
Also published as: KR20020065909A; JP2004511238A; EE200200328A; NO20022873L; TWI243160B; TR200300495T2; NO20022873D0; CN1423519A; IL150219A0; AU2001219651A1

Abstract

A mulch composition having extended moisture retention time and a method for use thereof are provided. In a first preferred embodiment of the present invention, a hydro mix moisturizing agent is added to a seeded mulch. The preferred embodiment comprises 93.95% of water, 5.85% of mulch, and 0.2% moisturizing agent by weight as a percentage of the weight of the water used, and fertilizer and seed in any selected amounts. In this preferred embodiment, the moisturizing agent comprises a cellulose gum, a cross-linker, and a surfactant. The moisturizing agent retains water in the mulch composition and releases water into the soil surface at a controlled rate while binding together the mulch composition. Moisture is retained for a longer amount of time than the prior art mulch compositions to promote maximum seed germination. The mulch composition according to the present invention additionally provides effective dust and erosion control properties.

Description

MULCH COMPOSITION AND METHOD

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention:

The present invention relates to a mulch for use in seeding. More specifically, the present invention relates to a composition and method for providing a seeding mulch having extended moisture retention time.

2. Description of Related Art:

The problem of maintaining a soil moisture content sufficient to sustain a growing plant has long been recognized. Sprayable mulches have been used to provide protection for the seed to promote the germination of seed on the soil surface. In a mulch, relatively large particles, such as wood fibers, straw, and sawdust, are mixed with water to form a slurry. A typical slurry mixture includes approximately 100 gallons of water for each 50 pounds of solid mulch, with fertilizer and seed added in amounts recommended by the suppliers. The slurry is then pumped through a hose and nozzle and sprayed onto the soil surface.

Binding agents, known as "tackifiers" are typically added to bind the slurry. The structural integrity of mulch is enhanced by the addition of the tackifier. Such an enhanced mulch is used to advantage for erosion control. Under normal conditions, sprinkler irrigation must be established within one day after the application of the mulch and seed.

Seeds can additionally be incorporated into the slurry mixture. The mulch protects the seeds from the weather and from being consumed, for example, by birds or insects. The mulch also protects the soil surface by preventing the topsoil from eroding during adverse weather conditions such as wind or rain storms. The water retained by the mulch nourishes the seeds to promote germination.

The water retention of prior art mulches is limited by the absorptive capacity of the solid mulGh material. The thickness of the mulch applied to the soil surface must be increased to increase the amount of retained water. However, this increased thickness can inhibit the growth of vegetation.

The amount of water retained by the prior art mulches is also determined by the weather. For example, in arid, windy areas, the mulch dries rapidly. If an irrigation system, such as sprinkler irrigation, is not established quickly, the mulch can dry out before the seed has germinated. The dried mulch can then either blow away in the winds, or form a hardened surface that inhibits the growth of new vegetation.

Moisturizing agents have been used to solve the problems inherent to manual and automatic watering systems. A moisturizing agent releases moisture into its immediate vicinity. One such moisturizing agent is described in Avera, Moisturizing Agent, U.S. Pat. No. 4,865,640. The Avera moisturizing agent is a gel-like product that appears dry to the touch and semi-solid in appearance. This moisturizing agent can contain approximately 98% of water bound in solid form.

The solid bound water is gradually converted to liquid water when placed in the microbial environment of natural soils. The bacteria and other microorganisms that liquefy this bound water do not migrate into the gel but act on its exposed surface. The liquefaction rate of moisturizing agents such as that taught by Avera can therefore be controlled by controlling the amount of moisturizing agent surface area that is exposed to the soil. It would therefore be an advantage to provide a mulch that retains sufficient water content to insure maximum seed germination. It would be a further advantage to provide a mulch that distributes water to the soil surface at a controlled rate.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a mulch composition having extended moisture retention time and a method for use thereof. The mulch composition according to embodiments of the present invention comprises water, mulch, and moisturizing agent. Seed and fertilizer can be added according to the particular requirements for the mulch composition. The preferred embodiment comprises 93.95% water, 5.85% mulch, and 0.20% moisturizing agent by weight as a percentage of the weight of the water used, and fertilizer and seed in any selected amounts. In this preferred embodiment, the moisturizing agent comprises a cellulose gum (preferably 92.95% cellulose gum), a cross-linker (preferably 7.00% aluminum sulfate), and a surfactant (preferably .05%) Smashing White® Water Softener & Detergent Booster).

The moisturizing agent according to the preferred embodiment is added to the mulch composition in lieu of a tackifier. The moisturizing agent releases water into the soil surface at a controlled rate while binding the mulch composition together.

The present invention retains moisture for a longer amount of time than the prior art mulches. Maximum seed germination can therefore be promoted. In addition, the present invention provides effective dust and erosion control properties. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a seeding mulch composition having extended moisture retention time and a method for use thereof. The present invention retains moisture for a longer amount of time than the prior art mulches. Maximum seed germination can therefore be insured.

For purposes of this application, the following definitions will be used. The term "mulch" describes a material that is used to coat soil. Mulch can retain water for distribution to the soil and can also inhibit the erosion of the underlying soil. Mulch can include fibrous matter such as wood fiber or shredded newsprint. Mulch can also include other materials such as fertilizer and seed. The term "mulch composition" is used to describe the present invention, namely, a mixture of a mulch and a moisturizing agent. The term "moisturizing agent" is used to refer to a substrate that gradually releases water and optionally air when interacting with biological organisms present in the environment of the object, for example, plant tissue, receiving the water and air. One such moisturizing agent is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,865,640. A moisturizing agent releases water and, optionally, air into the soil surface at a controlled rate, for example, when interacting with biological organisms typically found in soil.

The mulch composition according to embodiments of the present invention comprises water, mulch, and moisturizing agent. The amount of mulch can range from 4.39% to 7.3 % and the amount of hydro mix moisturizing agent can range from .05% to .35%). The mulch composition according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises 93.95%) water, 5.85% mulch, and 0.20% moisturizing agent by weight as a percentage of the weight of the water used, and fertilizer and seed in any selected amounts. As an example, the mulch composition according to the preferred embodiment can comprise 800 lbs. of water (100 gallons), 50 lbs. of mulch (1 standard size bag), and 1.6 lbs. moisturizing agent.

In the preferred embodiment, the mulch is preferably Excel® Fibermulch or Fibercel™ Mulch, both of which are currently manufactured by the American Excelsior Company of Arlington, Texas. However, the teachings of the present invention can also be applied to any suitable mulch.

Seed and fertilizer can also be added to the mulch composition as required for particular applications. For example, a mulch composition for use in erosion control can comprise .375 lb to 1.1 lbs of seed per 800 lbs of water (100 gallons). A mulch composition for pasture land can comprise .75 lb of seed per 800 lbs of water and a mulch composition for lawns can comprise 10.75 lbs per 800 lbs of water. The amount of fertilizer added to the mulch composition can vary from 4 to 8 lbs per 800 lbs of water.

The moisturizing agent used in the preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a dry mixture of:

92.95% cellulose gum; 7.00% aluminum sulfate; and

.05% Smashing White® Water Softener & Detergent Booster ("Smashing White").

For purposes of this application, this preferred moisturizing agent will be referred to herein as the "hydro mix moisturizing agent." The term "hydro mix moisturizing agent" is for descriptive purposes only and is not intended to limit in any way the scope of the claimed invention. The hydro mix moisturizing agent is advantageous because, when added to the other components of the mulch composition, such as mulch, seed, fertilizer, and water, the hydro mix moisturizing agent has excellent tackifier and water retention properties.

Table 1 lists examples of the mulch composition according to different embodiments of the present invention.

TABLE 1

The amount of seed and/or fertilizer, if any, in the mulch composition according to the present invention has little effect, if any, on the integrity of the mulch composition. However, the function of the hydro mix moisturizing agent does vary according to its percentage in the mulch composition. Thus, for Examples 1 and 2 of Table 1, the hydro mix moisturizing agent functions primarily as a tackifier. A tackifier functions essentially as a glue that holds the mulch composition together, thereby reducing, if not preventing, the effects of wind and water erosion on the mulch composition. However, a tackifier typically has little or no effect on the water retention properties of the mulch composition.

As the percentage of hydro mix moisturizing agent increases as shown in Examples 3 through 6 of Table 1 , the hydro mix additionally serves to retain water in the mulch composition, in addition to its function as a tackifier. The water retention property of the mulch composition of Example 3 is fair, the water retention property of the Example 4 mulch composition is good, that of Example 5 is excellent, while the water retention property of Example 6 is superior.

In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the hydro mix moisturizing agent is added to the mulch composition in lieu of an additional tackifier, such as guar. In the mulch composition according to the preferred embodiment, the hydro mix moisturizing agent comprises approximately 0.1%) to 0.3% by weight as a percentage of the weight of the water used (3.6 - 10.8 grams hydro mix per 8 lbs of water) and preferably 0.3%, as shown in Example 6 of Table 1.

In this range, the hydro mix moisturizing agent does not form a gel. As a result, the hydro mix moisturizing agent component of the mulch composition tends to bead and run off a surface on which the mulch composition is sprayed and would not remain mixed with the other components of the mulch composition. Therefore, in the preferred embodiment, a surfactant is added to the moisturizing agent to break the surface tension of the hydrated hydro mix moisturizing agent. Breaking the surface tension causes the hydro mix moisturizing agent to flow and to coat the surface on which it is sprayed. The hydro mix moisturizing agent remains mixed with the other components of the mulch composition to slow the rate of water evaporation from the mulch composition, thereby extending the period of moisture retention.

The Smashing White, which is distributed by the AMWAY Corporation, functions as the surfactant for the preferred embodiment of the mulch composition. While the hydro mix moisturizing agent preferably includes .05% of the Smashing White, in alternative embodiments the percentage of Smashing White can range from approximately .03% to .08% by weight.

One skilled in the art will readily recognize that other surfactants can also be used with the present invention. For example, in one embodiment, only the active ingredients of Smashing White, Sodium Sesquicarbonate and Sodium Tripolyphosphate, are added to the hydro mix moisturizing agent.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, Nova Clean, which is manufactureed by Micro Nova and which includes the active ingredient Novasan, is used instead of or in combination with the Smashing White. In this embodiment, the percentage of Novasan or the Novasan /Smashing White mixture is also preferably .05%). However, the percentage of Nova Clean can range from approximately .03%) to .08%) by weight.

While the hydro mix moisturizing agent according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention includes 92.95% cellulose gum, in alternative embodiments the percentage of cellulose gum can range from approximately 85% to 95%. When the cellulose gum is wet, it becomes sticky and clings to the mulch. The aluminum sulfate component of the hydro mix moisturizing agent functions as a "cross-linker" to cause the molecules of water to cling to the molecules of cellulose gum. While the preferred embodiment of the hydro mix comprises 7.00% aluminum sulfate, in alternative embodiments the percentage of aluminum sulfate can range from approximately 5.00% to 15%. In yet other embodiments of the invention, in lieu of the aluminum sulfate, the cross-linker can be a hydrated metallic salt such as zinc sulfate, indium sulfate, cadmium sulfate, and gallium sulfate in the same percentage as aluminum sulfate. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the hydro mix moisturizing agent is added to the other components of the mulch composition in an anhydrous form, preferably a powder. However, the anhydrous hydro mix moisturizing agent can be used in any other suitable form, including but not limited to granular or chunk forms. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, a hydrated moisturizing agent is mixed with the mulch, rather than an anhydrous moisturizing agent. In this embodiment, the moisturizing agent is hydrated by being mixed with water and is then poured in a tank to be mixed with the other ingredients of the mulch composition. In this embodiment, it is preferred that the hydrated moisturizing agent be mixed such that it remains a liquid capable of being poured. For example, the hydrated moisturizing agent can be mixed such that it has the consistency of a thin syrup.

The hydro mix moisturizing agent can be used for purposes other than to be mixed with the mulch to form the mulch composition. For example, the hydro mix moisturizing agent can be used as a fire retardant. In this embodiment, hydrated hydro mix moisturizing agent alone is applied to a surface that is to be protected from fire. The water released from the hydro mix moisturizing agent retards the spread of fire over the protected surface. The hydro mix moisturizing agent can be applied to the surface by any appropriate means, including but not limited to spraying, dipping, brushing, dusting, and sprinkling.

In one example, the hydro mix moisturizing agent can be applied to flammable areas in the path of a wild fire. The hydro mix moisturizing agent will leave a wet film on the flammable areas for an extended period of time. The time that the flammable areas will remain moist is dependent in part upon the formulation of the hydro mix moisturizing agent. The preferred fire retardant comprises .35 % anhydrous hydro mix by weight and 99.65 % water. However, in alternative embodiments, the amount of anhydrous hydro mix moisturizing agent can vary in a range of from .2 % to XI % by weight as a percentage of weight of water used. The length of time that the moisture will be retained on the flammable surface increases along with the percentage of anhydrous hydro mix moisturizing agent in the formulation. The desired formulation can be selected according to the intensity of the fire and according to atmospheric conditions such as wind velocity.

The anhydrous hydro mix moisturizing agent preferably comprises:

92.8 % cellulose gum; 7.00 % aluminum sulfate; and

.2 % surfactant, such as Smashing White._.

In alternative embodiments of the present invention, the percentage of cellulose gum used in the anhydrous hydro mix moisturizing agent can range from approximately 85 % - 95 % by weight. The percentage of aluminum sulfate can range from approximately

5.00 % - 15 % by weight, and the percentage of surfactant can range from approximately .1 % - .25 %.

In yet another embodiment, the hydro mix moisturizing agent can be directly applied to soil. In this embodiment, the hydro mix moisturizing agent is used to provide moisture directly to the soil, for example, to irrigate crops or planted seeds. The hydro mix moisturizing agent can be applied to the soil by any appropriate means, including but not limited to spraying, dipping, brushing, dusting, and sprinkling. In one embodiment, the hydro mix moisturizing agent is hydrated prior to being applied to the soil. In this embodiment, approximately .05 % to .3 % anhydrous hydro mix is mixed with approximately 800 lbs. water. Alternatively, the hydro mix moisturizing agent can be applied to the soil in an anhydrous form. Water can then be added, for example, by spraying the hydro mix moisturizing agent. The hydro mix moisturizing agent will retain water for controlled release to the soil. In yet another embodiment, the hydro mix moisturizing agent can be used as an additive to the core of a battery. Batteries are typically compression-formed in a dry state. After the core is formed, it is desirable to absorb moisture into the core to improve the life of the battery. To date, battery manufacturers have been unsuccessful in their attempts to absorb water into the battery core. This problem can be solved by mixing anhydrous hydro mix moisturizing agent with the battery core material prior to compression. After the core is formed, the hydromix moisturizing agent will absorb moisture back into the core by capillary action. The surfactant component of the hydro mix moisturizing agent is used to release the surface tension to allow the moisture to be absorbed back into the center of the battery core. In this embodiment, the anhydrous hydro mix moisturizing agent preferably comprises:

94.9 % cellulose gum;

5.00 % aluminum sulfate; and

.1 % surfactant, such as Smashing White.

In alternative embodiments, the percentage of cellulose gum can range from approximately 90 % - 95 % by weight. The percentage of aluminum sulfate can range from approximately 5 % - 10 % by weight, and the percentage of surfactant can range from approximately .075%) - .2 % by weight. In the preferred embodiment, anhydrous hydro mix moisturizing agent is added to the battery Gore material in an amount of .05% by weight as a percentage of the weight of the battery core material. In alternative embodiments, the amount of anhydrous hydro mix moisturizing agent mixed with the battery core material can vary from approximately .04 % - .08 % as a percent of the weight of battery core material.

While the hydro mix moisturizing agent is used in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, any other appropriate moisturizing agent can be used, such as the cellulosic compounds disclosed in Avera, Moisturizing Agent, U.S. Pat. No. 4,865,640 ("the '640 patent"). The moisturizing agent disclosed in the '640 patent is a mixture of cellulosic compound with carboxylic groups substituted on glucose units of the cellulosic chain through an ether linkage. The cellulosic compound is admixed with a hydrated metallic salt and then with aerated water to form a high viscosity substance that gradually releases water and air when interacting with biological organisms typically found in soil.

The moisturizing agent disclosed in the '640 patent comprises a mixture of:

(a) cellulosic compound ranging from l-3%o by weight (as a percentage of the weight of water used) and having an average molecular weight ranging between 90,000 and 700,000 represented by the formula:

R-O-COOM, in which "M" is a metal substituted for hydrogen on the carboxyl group of the cellulosic compound and "R" is a cellulosic chain;

(b) a hydrated metallic salt ranging from 0.1-0.3% by weight (as a percentage of the weight of water used); and

(c) water ranging from 91-99% by weight. The water can optionally be aerated. The metal substituted on the carboxyl group can include such metals as lithium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, and cesium. The hydrated salt can include such salts as aluminum sulfate, zinc sulfate, indium sulfate, cadmium sulfate, and gallium sulfate, with water being held mechanically to the salt molecule. A surfactant can also be added to the moisturizing agent disclosed in the '640 patent.

One exemplary embodiment that includes surfactant comprises a mixture of:

97.85% Water 2.0% Cellulose Gum 0.15% Aluminum Sulfate

To this mixture is added 0.5 oz. Original Palmolive® Liquid dishwashing soap per each 500 gallons of water used.

The Original Palmolive dishwashing soap, manufactured by the Colgate-Palmolive Company, contains the surfactant Sodium Laurel Sulfate. In this exemplary hydrated embodiment, however, the surfactant is only included for its properties in preventing the moisturizing agent from sticking to the sides of its container.

In another embodiment of the present invention, a tackifier is added to the mulch composition. The preferred tackifier is guar, although any other suitable vegetable gum or tackifier can also be used to bind the mulch.

The present invention can be illustrated by the following test examples. These test examples are for explanatory purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention disclosed herein. TEST EXAMPLES 1 - 7

The tests in Test Examples 1 - 7 were performed in 12 inch by 24 inch fish tanks. The tanks were filled with various types of dry soil, including clay, loam, sand, and decomposed granite. Tests 1 - 7 were performed indoors. Therefore, grow lights were used.

Two types of American Excelsior Company mulch were used in the tests. Excel® Fibermulch contains 100%) wood fiber. Fibercel™ Mulch contains 70% wood fiber and 30% recycled newsprint. These two types of mulch were used both with and without the standard American Excelsior Company guar tackifier. Various types of native grass seed were added to the test mulches. The native seeds used in the tests included California Barley, Prostrate Form, Idaho Fescue, Berkeley Blue Wildrye, Zoro Fescue and California Poppy. The amount of seed added to the mulch composition was based on the average seed-per-acre recommendations of the California State Department of Transportation (Caltrans). These recommendations vary according to the types of seed and the acreage to be covered.

The amount and type of fertilizer added to the mulch composition was determined by the soil type and condition. The fertilizers were added to the mulch composition in accordance with their manufacturers' recommendations.

American Excelsior Company recommends using one 50 lb. bag of their mulch for each added 100 gallons of water. For the purposes of this application, all references to "bags" of American Excelsior Company mulch will be considered to be 50 lb. bags. Test Examples 1 - 7 use a range of mulch to water ratios from 1/2 bag to 1 1/2 bags per one hundred gallons of added water, including the factory recommended mulch to water ratio. In Test Examples 1 - 7, hydro mix moisturizing agent in the form of a powder was added in a range of from .8 lb - 2.4 lbs, inclusive to water and to mulch that did not contain the standard American Excelsior Company tackifier. The amounts of hydro mix moisturizing agent added to the mulches were based upon the weight of the moisturizing agent as a percentage of the volume of water by weight.

The results of Test Examples 1-7 indicated that the amounts of added fertilizer and seed had no effect on the mulch composition's water retention. In addition, the mulch to water ratio had little to no effect on the water retention of the mulch composition. TABLE 2

The results of Test Examples 5 - 7 indicated that, as the concentration of hydro mix moisturizing agent is increased, a crust begins to form on the top of the mulch. As the concentration of hydro mix moisturizing agent approaches .25%, the plants that have germinated from the seeds in the mulch begin to have difficulties in pushing through the mulch. However, the mulch compositions having the higher concentrations of hydro mix moisturizing agent also exhibit increased erosion control properties.

In arid areas, irrigation must be rapidly started to insure germination of the seeds as well as to sustain the newly-germinated plants. The water retention properties of the mulch compositions used in Test Examples 1 - 7 all extended the period before irrigation must be started. In Test Examples 4 and 5, the period before irrigation must be started was extended from one day to from three to seven days. In non-arid areas, the mulch compositions of Test Examples 4 and 5 may eliminate entirely the necessity for irrigation.

The soil used in the tanks was dry, with the only added moisture being the water applied with the mulch composition. Seeds that take 25 days to germinate were added to the mulch compositions used in Test Examples 3 and 4. These seeds did germinate 25 days after planting, without any additional water being supplied. In the other Test Examples, seeds that take 7 - 10 days to germinate germinated in the expected time. The grasses that germinated grew to an eventual height of 5 - 6 inches and lived for between 20 and 30 days after planting, without additional water being supplied.

TEST EXAMPLES 8 - 12

In Test Examples 8 - 12 the mulch compositions were sprayed onto an embankment having an approximately 10% grade. American Excelsior Company Excel® Fibermulch was used for Test Examples 8 - 12. Each batch of mulch was mixed with 1,500 gallons of added water. The same amount of added seed was also added to each batch of mulch. The amount of seed added to each batch is not considered to be significant to the test results. The hydro mix moisturizing agent, in anhydrous powder form, was also added in varying amounts to the mulches. No tackifiers were added to the mulϋh compositions of Test Examples 8 - 1 1. Test Example 12 contained tackifier but no added hydro mix moisturizing agent.

TABLE 3

TEST EXAMPLES 13 - 14

In Test Examples 13 and 14, the mulch compositions according to the present invention were sprayed onto a new schoolyard in Floyd Knobs, Indiana. The mulch compositions and test conditions for Test Examples 13 and 14 are provided in Table 4, below. The results of the tests are listed in Table 5, below. The moisturizing agent added to the mulches in Test Examples 13-14 was the hydro mix moisturizing agent.

TABLE 4

TABLE 5

TEST EXAMPLES 15 - 19

In Test Examples 15 - 19, the compositions according to the present invention were sprayed onto a test site located in Santa Rosa, California. The compositions and test conditions for Test Examples 15 - 19 are provided in Table 6, below. The results of the tests are listed in Table 6, below. The moisturizing agent added to the mulches in Test Examples 15- 19 was the hydro mix moisturizing agent.

TABLE 6

TABLE 7

The results of Test Examples 15 - 19 clearly demonstrated the superior performance of the mulch composition according to the present invention. Unlike the prior art mulch, the mulch composition according to the present invention provided water both at and below the soil surface. The present invention also can serve as an effective dust control product.

Based upon the results of all tests, the presently preferred embodiment of the invention includes between 0.15% - 0.25%o of hydro mix moisturizing agent by weight as a percentage of the volume of added water by weight. More preferably, the preferred embodiment of the present invention includes 0.20% of hydro mix moisturizing agent by weight as a percentage of the volume of added water by weight. While the invention is described in conjunction with the preferred embodiments, this description is not intended in any way as a limitation to the scope of the invention. Modifications, changes, and variations which are apparent to those skilled in the art can be made in the arrangement, operation and details of construction of the invention disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

For example, the teachings of the present invention can readily be applied to mulch compositions having any appropriate amounts and types of moisturizing agent or mulch. Such types of mulch can include prior art mulches formed of relatively large particles, such as wood fibers, straw, and sawdust. Furthermore, the amounts of seed, water, and fertilizer that are added to a mulch composition according to the present invention can also be varied. It is not necessary to add seed or fertilizer at all. The erosion control properties of the present invention are evident with a composition consisting of mulch fiber and moisturizing agent, to which water is added. The mulch composition can also include any other additives, such as colorants or preservatives, that do not significantly affect the desirable properties of the mulch composition.

The composition according to the present invention can be applied to a surface by any appropriate means, including spraying, or manual application. Additionally, the mulch composition according to the present invention can be mixed by any appropriate means including automatic agitators or manual mixing.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A mulch composition, comprising: a mulch; and a moisturizing agent for incorporation into the mulch; and wherein water can be added to the mulch composition and retained for controlled distribution.

2. The mulch composition according to claim 1 further comprising fertilizer and seed.

3. The mulch composition according to claim 1, comprising: mulch in an amount ranging from approximately 4.4% to 7.3%> by weight; moisturizing agent in an amount ranging from approximately 0.05% to 0.35% by weight as a percentage of the volume of added water by weight; and water in an amount ranging from approximately 92.4% to 95.4% by weight.

4. The mulch composition according to claim 3, comprising: mulch in the amount of 5.85% by weight; moisturizing agent in the amount of 0.20% by weight as a percentage of the volume of added water by weight; and water in the amount of 93.95% by weight.

5. The mulch composition according to claim 1, wherein the mulch comprises ingredients selected from the group consisting of wood fiber, straw, sawdust, and recycled newsprint.

6. The mulch composition according to claim 5, wherein the mulch comprises 100%> wood fiber.

7. The mulch composition according to claim 5, wherein the mulch comprises about 10% wood fiber and about 30%> recycled newsprint.

8. The mulch composition according to claim 1, wherein the moisturizing agent comprises:

(a) cellulosic compound;

(b) a cross-linker; and (c) a surfactant.

9. The mulch composition according to claim 8, wherein the moisturizing agent comprises:

(a) cellulose gum ranging from approximately 85%> to 95%o;

(b) aluminum sulfate ranging from approximately 5.00%> to 15%>; and (c) surfactant ranging from approximately 0.03%) to 0.08%).

10. The mulch composition according to claim 9, wherein the moisturizing agent comprises:

(a) 92.95 % cellulose gum;

(b) 1.00% aluminum sulfate; and (c) .05% Smashing White Water Softener.

1 1. The mulch composition of claim 1 further comprising a tackifier.

12. The mulch composition of claim 1 1 in which the tackifier comprises guar.

13. The mulch composition according to claim 8, wherein the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of Smashing White Water Softener, Nova Clean, Novasan, Original Palmolive Liquid, Sodium Sesquicarbonate, and Sodium Tripolyphosphate.

14. A moisturizing agent comprising:

(a) cellulosic compound;

(b) a cross-linker; and

(c) a surfactant.

15. The moisturizing agent according to claim 14, further comprising:

(a) cellulose gum ranging from approximately 85% to 95%>;

(b) aluminum sulfate ranging from approximately 5.00% to 15%; and

(c) surfactant ranging from approximately 0.03% to 0.08%.

16. The moisturizing agent according to claim 15, further comprising:

(a) 92.95 % cellulose gum;

(b) 7.00% aluminum sulfate; and

(c) .05%) Smashing White Water Softener.

17. The moisturizing agent according to claim 14, wherein the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of Smashing White Water Softener, Nova Clean, Novasan, Original Palmolive Liquid, Sodium Sesquicarbonate, and Sodium Tripolyphosphate.

18. The moisturizing agent according to claim 14, wherein the cross-linker is a hydrated metallic salt.

19. The moisturizing agent according to claim 18, wherein the cross-linker is selected from the group consisting of aluminum sulfate, zinc sulfate, indium sulfate, cadmium sulfate, and gallium sulfate.

20. A method for providing a moisturizing agent comprising the step of mixing a cellulosic compound, a cross-linker, and a surfactant.

21. The method according to claim 20, further comprising the step of mixing cellulose gum ranging from approximately 85% to 95%, aluminum sulfate ranging from approximately 5.00%) to 15%), and surfactant ranging from approximately 0.03% to 0.08%o.

22. The method according to claim 20, wherein the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of Smashing White Water Softener, Nova Clean, Novasan, Original Palmolive Liquid, Sodium Sesquicarbonate, and Sodium Tripolyphosphate.

23. The moisturizing agent according to claim 20, wherein the cross-linker is a hydrated metallic salt.

24. The moisturizing agent according to claim 23, wherein the cross-linker is selected from the group consisting of aluminum sulfate, zinc sulfate, indium sulfate, cadmium sulfate, and gallium sulfate.

25. A method for retarding fire, comprising the steps of: hydrating a moisturizing agent; and applying the hydrated moisturizing agent to a surface to be protected.

26. A method for irrigating soil, comprising the steps of: hydrating a moisturizing agent; and applying the hydrated moisturizing agent to a surface to be protected.

27. A method for providing a mulch composition, comprising the steps of: adding water to a tank; adding mulch fiber to the water; adding powdered moisturizing agent to the water; and mixing the water, mulch fiber, and moisturizing agent.

28. The method of claim 27, further comprising the steps of: adding seed to the water after the step of adding mulch fiber and before the step of adding moisturizing agent; and adding fertilizer to the water after the step of adding the seed.

29. The method of claim 27, wherein the powdered moisturizing agent comprises:

(a) cellulose gum ranging from approximately 85%o to 95%₀;

(b) aluminum sulfate ranging from approximately 5.00% to 15%; and

(c) surfactant ranging from approximately 0.03%> to 0.08%.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein the powdered moisturizing agent comprises:

(a) 92.95 % cellulose gum;

(b) 7.00%) aluminum sulfate; and

(c) .05%) Smashing White Water Softener.

31. The mulch composition produced according to the method of claim 27.

32. A mulch composition, comprising: a mulch comprising ingredients selected from the group consisting of wood fiber straw sawdust, and recycled newsprint; and moisturizing agent of from approximately 0.05% to 0.35% by weight as a percentage of the volume of added water by weight for incorporation into the mulch, the moisturizing agent comprising:

(a) cellulose gum ranging from approximately 85% to 95%>; (b) aluminum sulfate ranging from approximately 5.00%) to 15%; and

(c) surfactant ranging from approximately 0.03%) to 0.08%o; wherein water can be added to the mulch composition and retained for controlled distribution.

33. The mulch composition according to claim 32, wherein the moisturizing agent comprises:

(a) 92.95 % cellulose gum;

(b) 7.00%) aluminum sulfate; and

(c) .05%) Smashing White Water Softener.

34. The mulch composition according to claim 32, wherein the mulch comprises 100% wood fiber.

35. The mulch composition according to claim 32, wherein the mulch comprises approximately 70% wood fiber and approximately 30%> recycled newsprint.

36. The mulch composition according to claim 32, comprising: mulch in an amount ranging from approximately 4.5%₀ to 1.00% by weight; moisturizing agent in an amount ranging from approximately 0.05% to 0.35% by weight as a percentage of the volume of added water by weight; and water in an amount ranging from approximately 92.35%> to 95.45%> by weight.

37. The mulch composition according to claim 36, comprising: mulch in the amount of 5.85% by weight as a percentage of the volume of added water by weight; moisturizing agent in the amount of 0.20% by weight as a percentage of the volume of added water by weight; and water in the amount of 93.95% by weight.

38. The mulch composition according to claim 32, further comprising seed.

39. The mulch composition according to claim 32, further comprising fertilizer.

AMENDED CLAIMS

[received by the International Bureau on 20 June 2001 (20.06.01); original claims 1 , 14, 20, 26 and 27 amended; remaining claims unchanged (4 pages)]

1. A mulch composition, comprising: a mulch; and a moisturizing agent for incorporation into the mulch; and wherein water can be added to the mulch composition such that the moisturizing agent binds the water [and retained for] to enable controlled distribution of the water.

3. The mulch composition according to claim 1, comprising: mulch in an amount ranging from approximately 4.4%o to 7.3%> by weight; moisturizing agent in an amount ranging from approximately 0.05%> to 0.35%> by weight as a percentage of the volume of added water by weight; and water in an amount ranging from approximately 92.4%> to 95.4%> by weight.

4. The mulch composition according to claim 3, comprising: mulch in the amount of 5.85%> by weight; moisturizing agent in the amount of 0.20%> by weight as a percentage of the volume of added water by weight; and water in the amount of 93.95%) by weight.

14. A moisturizing agent comprising:

(a) cellulosic compound;

(b) a cross-linker; and

(c) a surfactant; wherein the moisturizing agent is capable of binding water.

15. The moisturizing agent according to claim 14, further comprising:

(a) cellulose gum ranging from approximately 85%) to 95%;

(b) aluminum sulfate ranging from approximately 5.00%> to 15%; and

(c) surfactant ranging from approximately 0.03%o to 0.08%>.

16. The moisturizing agent according to claim 15, further comprising:

(a) 92.95 % cellulose gum;

(b) 7.00%o aluminum sulfate; and

(c) .05% Smashing White Water Softener.

20. A method for providing a moisturizing agent capable of binding water comprising the step of mixing a cellulosic compound, a cross-linker, and a surfactant.

21. The method according to claim 20, further comprising the step of mixing cellulose gum ranging from approximately 85%> to 95%>, aluminum sulfate ranging from approximately 5.00%) to 15%, and surfactant ranging from approximately 0.03% to 0.08%>.

26. A method for irrigating soil, comprising the steps of: hydrating a moisturizing agent to provide a moisturizing agent containing bound water; and applying the hydrated moisturizing agent to a surface to be protected.

27. A method for providing a mulch composition, comprising the steps of: adding water to a tank; adding mulch fiber to the water; adding powdered moisturizing agent to the water; and mixing the water, mulch fiber, and moisturizing agent; wherein the moisturizing agent binds the water.

28. The method of claim 27, further comprising the steps of: adding seed to the water after the step of adding mulch fiber and before the step of adding moisturizing agent; and

adding fertilizer to the water after the step of adding the seed. STATEMENT UNDER ARTICLE 19 (1)

In light of the amendments attached hereto (see substitute pages), it is respectfully

submitted that Spittle does not disclose the claimed limitation of a moisturizing agent that

binds water or is capable of binding water. Spittle discloses a "mechanically-bonded, water-

absorbent fiber mulch [wherein] ... [a] water-absorbent polymer-based material is dispersed

throughout the fiber mulch to increase its water absorption capacity." [Spittle, abstract,

emphasis added.] Basically, Spittle absorbs, whereas the present invention binds. Spittle

does not disclose a moisturizing agent that undergoes a change when impregnated with water

such that the water is bound by the moisturizing agent (i.e., bound in solid or semi-solid

form). The polymer-base water absorbent material of Spittle merely absorbs the water

intended for later release and maintains it inside the mulch composition in a saturated state,

and the mulch arrangement has no influence over subsequent water distribution, such as the

increased water loss hastened by many environmental effects. The Spittle mulch and its

water-saturated polymer material, which does not include water bound to any of its sub¬

components, do not posses the advantageous characteristic of being highly resistant or

immune to such adverse environmental factors. In other words, the polymer-based water-

absorbent material (powder) does not provide controlled distribution, but rather is merely

capable of increased water retention, so as to inhibit water run-off for example. [Spittle, col.

3, ll. 14-16.] Specifically, the mulch of Spittle, having polymer crystals expanded/swollen

with water, will dry out and lose its moisture-retaining benefits when exposed to high heat,

strong winds, arid conditions and other such environmental factors.

The inventive mulch composition requires a moisturizing agent that binds water or is

capable of binding water, wherein with the bound water is gradually converted to liquid water

when placed in the desired natural soil environment. When present in the mulch or when mixed with the water, the moisturizing agent of the present invention will accept and bind

with the water to form a solid or semi-solid water-retaining compound. This moisturizing

agent and bound water substance can range in consistency from a thin syrup to that of semi-

solid gel. [Application, p. 9, 1. 1 1 ; p. 2, 11. 16-17.] The moisturizing agent acts to bind the

water; this prevents the effects of wind, water erosion, and other environmental effects from

drying the bound water out of the mulch, providing a controlled distribution in spite of such

factors. [Application, p. 6, 11. 14-16.]

It is respectfully submitted that the claims, as amended, involve an inventive step that

is novel to one skilled in the art in light of the cited reference.