Field performance on lettuce crops of poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate)/polylactic acid as alternative biodegradable composites mulching films

This work developed biodegradable poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate)/polylactic acid (PBAT/PLA) composites with different fillers to improve their physicochemical properties and biodegradability. The films were tested considering mechanical, morphological, thermal, crystalline, biodegradability, and ecotoxicity tests. Mechanical and morphological results indicated that the fillers' nature influences mechanical performance; all composites showed high-tensile strength (similar to 30 MPa) than the pristine films (similar to 12 MPa). The use of both fillers resulted in an interface, improving the matrix compatibility, reflecting in good thermal performance, low-water absorption, and high hydrophobicity. The WA (water absorption) and hydrophobicity are essential to maintain the crop's moisture since the water lost through plant transpiration will be condensed and returned to the soil. Films showed biodegradability and absence of toxicity, which allows the substitution of polyethylene commodity films as mulching films. Biodegradation and ecotoxicity tests indicate that the developed films are beneficial for lettuce crops and contribute to the development of seedlings.

Automated summary

This study developed biodegradable PBAT/PLA composites with different fillers to enhance their physicochemical properties and biodegradability. The composites showed high tensile strength, good thermal performance and low water absorption, making them suitable as mulching films for lettuce crops. Biodegradation and ecotoxicity tests indicated that the developed films are environmentally friendly and beneficial for crop growth.