Nano-Superhydrophobic Materials Enhance Soil Desalination and Reshape Microbial Communities in Saline-Alkali Soils

Soil salinization severely constrains agricultural productivity worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a nano-superhydrophobic material (NSHM) in enhancing leaching desalination and to elucidate its effects on soil microstructure and microbial communities in saline-alkali soil and sand. A gradient concentration experiment (0.0001‰-10‰, w : w ) combined with controlled leaching was conducted. Soil physicochemical properties, aggregate structure, and desalination efficiency were measured. Microstructural changes were characterized using scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Bacterial and fungal communities were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequencing. NSHM exhibited a non-linear dose effect, with an optimal concentration of 0.01‰, increasing desalination rates by 10.09% in soil and 16.21% in sand. NSHM significantly improved pore connectivity and permeability without altering mineral composition. Bacterial communities were strongly reshaped, with increased diversity and enrichment of beneficial taxa in soil, whereas diversity decreased in sand. Fungal communities were more stable, but pathogenic guilds were reduced. Microbial responses were closely associated with changes in soil properties. NSHM enhances desalination primarily through microstructural optimization that improves water-salt transport, thereby indirectly regulating microbial community assembly. Its effects are soil type-dependent, highlighting the need for tailored management strategies. This study provides a mechanistic basis for applying nanomaterials in saline-alkali land remediation. Graphical