Influence of spunbond degradable floating row covers on microclimate modification and yield of field cucumber

Abstract

In recent years, there has been an increase in interest in innovative plastic materials for use in horticulture. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of (bio)degradable floating covers (polylactide nonwoven ‒ PLA, and oxo-degradable polypropylene nonwoven with 0.1% iron stearate ‒ PP photo, both 20 g/m2) compared to the conventional PP nonwoven (control, 20 g/m2) on microclimate modification and yield of field-grown cucumber. The greatest PAR transmittance was recorded for the control nonwoven (83%), while the degradable materials transmitted 8% less radiation. Maximum soil surface temperatures were the highest under the PLA nonwoven, but minimum temperatures ‒ under the oxo-degradable fleece. The mean temperature under the oxo-degradable material was comparable to the control, while PLA increased the soil temperature by 1.8 °C, on average. The yield from cucumber plants covered with degradable materials was similar to that from the plants cultivated under the conventional oil-based nonwoven fleece. There were no significant changes in dry weight and soluble sugar content in cucumber fruits in 2013; however, the degradable nonwovens decreased these parameters in 2012. The lifespan of the oxo-degradable nonwoven was limited only to one growing season, thus the durability of the polymer must be increased. Polylactide nonwoven can be a sustainable ecological alternative to conventional non-degradable PP covers.

Biodegradable Nonwoven Agrotextile and Films—A Review

“…Its specific gravity, glass transition temperature, and modulus are within the values reported for polyamide (PA) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibres [ 31 ]. Due to the complicated production, PLA is more expensive than other polymers, but as stated before, different manufacturing technologies are being developed to simplify the process [ 109 ].…”

“…The PLA polymer is a good replacement for conventional synthetic nonwoven fabric used for vegetable growth since it transmits only 8% less radiation than PP nonwoven fabric. The investigation of cucumber yield in fields covered with PLA degradable and conventional oil-based nonwoven fabric shows the same yield [ 109 , 112 ]. Slightly higher temperatures under the PP and photodegraded PP mulches were observed and compared to control field.…”

Biodegradable polymers as floating row covers in field production of radish

“…In comparison to external PAR, the decrease was 28.8% (Control PP), 31.7% (SB20/13), and 33.9% (SB21/13). Radiation transmission through covers varied from 65% to 85%, depending on dust accumulation on the cover and water vapor condensation on the inner surface of the fabric, but transmission depended also on the type of nonwoven (Kalisz et al, 2018). Siwek et al (2012) recorded transmittance of PAR for an AAC degradable nonwoven of 59.7% of external radiation, while transmittance for a polylactide degradable nonwoven was higher by around 8%.…”

Analysis of the acid and alkali resistance of superhydrophobic paper mulch

“…Because of the exposure in the harsh outdoor environment for a long time, the paper mulch needs to have good durability. In both of the slightly acidic and alkaline soil and under the erosion of rain, it can still provide heat preservation and moisturizing living environment for plants [6][7] .…”