Study on the retention effect of condensed water at different soil levels in exposed areas of Hoh Xil lake upon water recession

An artificial water retention layer at 0–5 cm depth significantly enhances the adsorption of soil moisture through condensation, demonstrating superior performance compared to deeper layers. This study found that such a layer increases condensed water vapor from near-surface air by up to three times, with the highest frequency and amount of unidirectional condensation occurring in this shallow range. The findings also reveal that permafrost in Hoh Xil, Qinghai, creates a heat zero-flux plane migrating 30 cm below the surface, influencing moisture retention dynamics. These insights provide a theoretical foundation for improving condensate absorption capacity and supporting vegetation restoration in ecologically degraded lake bottom areas.

Li, B., Liu, J. T., Shi, W. P., Zhang, Y. X., Xie, F., & Zhou, B. (2022). Study on the retention effect of condensed water at different soil levels in exposed areas of Hoh Xil lake upon water recession. Water Supply, 22(12), 9048–9060. https://doi.org/10.2166/ws.2022.420