Thank you so much Mr. Williams for your question. There are different factors that can affect the durability of hair. If hair is in the the soil it has the potential to last for several years. These factors will also be dependent on microbial activity, temperature, etc. Forsee's processing of the material is a huge factor in durability. For example the mats that are placed underneath sod have intricate layers that will take sufficient time for bacteria to decompose. The keratin content in the hair makes it less degradable. The goal is that the bacteria focus on the outside layer of the hair for decomposition for nitrogen to be released. The video under the tab water conservation shows after 3 years very little visible decomposition of the hair mat. Keep in my mind that bacteria will only be active when conditions are favorable (heat/moisture). I noticed that during the winter months when the grass is dormant, the microbial activity in decomposing the mat is dormant as well.
When used as insulation there are NOT many components for decomposition such as what is located in the soil (bacteria). There are studies where hair is present and has not decomposed for hundreds of years.
In my opinion depending on the type of process applied to the mats for durability, and the exposed environment the material could possibly could out live human life.
Thank you so much Mr. Williams for your question. There are different factors that can affect the durability of hair. If hair is in the the soil it has the potential to last for several years. These factors will also be dependent on microbial activity, temperature, etc. Forsee's processing of the material is a huge factor in durability. For example the mats that are placed underneath sod have intricate layers that will take sufficient time for bacteria to decompose. The keratin content in the hair makes it less degradable. The goal is that the bacteria focus on the outside layer of the hair for decomposition for nitrogen to be released. The video under the tab water conservation shows after 3 years very little visible decomposition of the hair mat. Keep in my mind that bacteria will only be active when conditions are favorable (heat/moisture). I noticed that during the winter months when the grass is dormant, the microbial activity in decomposing the mat is dormant as well.
When used as insulation there are NOT many components for decomposition such as what is located in the soil (bacteria). There are studies where hair is present and has not decomposed for hundreds of years.
In my opinion depending on the type of process applied to the mats for durability, and the exposed environment the material could possibly could out live human life.