Feuchthalte

Feuchthalte is a term used to describe the ability of a material or substance to retain moisture. In German usage it is often expressed as Feuchthaltevermögen or Feuchthaltung and is a key concept in soil science, horticulture and materials engineering. The idea encompasses different forms of moisture storage, including hygroscopic water, capillary water and bound water, and it is influenced by the material’s pore structure and chemistry.

In soils the Feuchthaltevermögen determines how much water remains available for plants between irrigation events or rainfall. It is affected by texture (clay, silt and sand proportions), soil structure, organic matter content and salinity. The soil–water retention curve describes how water content changes with matric potential, with typical reference points such as field capacity and the wilting point. Finer soils with more organic matter generally exhibit higher moisture retention than coarse, sandy soils.

In growing media and substrates used for horticulture, Feuchthaltekapazität is important for buffering moisture fluctuations and reducing irrigation frequency. A medium with good moisture retention can improve drought tolerance but may also prolong drying after overwatering if aeration is poor.

In construction and building materials, moisture retention affects indoor humidity buffering, durability and the risk of moisture-related damage. Materials such as wood, brick and concrete differ in hygroscopic behavior and their capacity to exchange moisture with the surrounding air.

Measurement and assessment methods include gravimetric moisture content, porosity analysis, capillary absorption tests and hygrometric tests. Understanding Feuchthalte properties supports irrigation planning, substrate selection, humidity control and material performance under variable environmental conditions.