The effects of ‘Colas’ bitumen emulsion on soil temperature, soil moisture and the stability of soil structure were determined in temperate and tropical conditions.
At a depth of 5 cm, soil temperature increments of from 2°c in England to 8°c in Trinidad were recorded when the soil was mulched with bitumen. Temperatures under bitumen were shown to be higher than those under mulches of black polyethylene, sand or pine needles, and in unmulched soil. It was also shown that growing crops exerted an increasing shading effect which limited the period of effectiveness of a mulch. When the mulch is applied in bands, these should be at least 15 cm wide for maximum temperature increments to occur.
Soil moisture studies were conducted both in the field and under laboratory/glasshouse conditions. It was found that only comparatively thick mulches on smooth soil surfaces, caused any appreciable reduction in water losses through evaporation.
It was found that the crumb structures of soils treated with very thin bitumen mulches (∼150μ thick) were able to withstand considerably more weathering by rainfall or irrigation than unmulched soil before breakdown of the soil surface structure occurred.

This study examines the effects of various Iranian petroleum-based mulches on soil surface evaporation. The findings reveal that these mulches significantly reduce water loss through evaporation, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. By forming a protective layer over the soil, petroleum mulches help retain moisture and enhance soil resilience under harsh climate conditions. The effectiveness of the mulch depends on factors such as mulch type, application thickness, and soil characteristics.

This article investigates the consequences of using bituminous (oil-based) mulches in agriculture and construction projects. Results show that bitumen mulches increase soil temperature and help retain soil moisture. They are also effective in weed control and reducing soil erosion. However, improper use may lead to environmental pollution. The article emphasizes the importance of safe application and encourages exploring eco-friendly alternatives to mitigate environmental impacts.

This in-depth interview explores the origin and development of oil mulch technology in Iran, as recounted by its pioneer Engineer Seyyed Mehdi Mahdavi and field expert Engineer Ghamreza Ahannin. Developed in the 1960s to combat desertification and control shifting sands, this innovative petroleum-based method was successfully deployed across Iran, including Khuzestan and Boein Zahra. The article discusses technical implementation, challenges, environmental impacts, and the continued relevance of this technology in addressing dust storms and land degradation.

A comprehensive review on applying petroleum mulches for soil erosion control and vegetation enhancement in arid regions. Field experiences, environmental challenges, and optimization strategies discussed.