Nano-optics: Challenges, trends, and future

Plasma treatment process for accelerating the disintegration of a biodegradable mulch film in soil and compost

“…Mulch films are used to create a more suitable environment for crop growth by providing a physical barrier thus aiding in soil moisture retention, preventing weed growth, and maintaining a desirable soil temperature. Previous studies have reported a significant improvement in crop yield after using plastic mulch films: For example, a 45%-47% improvement in musk melon outputs and up to 369% increment in bell pepper yields have been reported (James et al, 2019). In addition, water savings of 12%-35% resulting from the use of mulch films have been reported (Liu et al, 2014a).…”

“…Surface treatment of polymers is a commonly applied industrial practice to improve adhesion, printability, and dye uptake of polymer surfaces (Grace and Gerenser, 2003;James et al, 2019). Plasma treatment is one of the most versatile methods of surface modification when compared to other techniques such as physical modification, flame and chemical surface etching (Komvopoulos, 2005).…”

“…Plasma treatment is one of the most versatile methods of surface modification when compared to other techniques such as physical modification, flame and chemical surface etching (Komvopoulos, 2005). Plasma treatment can result in a variety of surface changes including functionalization, deposition, etching and crosslinking (James et al, 2019). Unlike other methods, plasma surface treatment does not involve the use of harsh chemicals or release toxins, which makes it an environmentally friendly method of polymer surface modification (Komvopoulos, 2005;Kusano, 2014).…”