Optimization of Processing Parameters to Increase Thermal Conductivity of Rice Straw Fiber Film

Abstract

Biodegradable mulching film (BMF) is a promising alternative to petroleum-based plastic mulching film. Thermal conductivity is an important quality factor of BMF that affects the heat transfer between ambient to soil and plant growth. The objective of this research was to enhance the thermal conductivity of fiber film through an environmentally friendly agent and optimized processing conditions. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the processing conditions. With optimized process conditions of 70 g/m2 basis weight, 1.5% wet strength agent content, 0.5% neutral sizing agent content, 15% charcoal addition ratio, and 55 °SR beating degree, the films showed satisfactory thermal conductivity (0.0714 W/m·K) and high dry and wet tensile strengths (33.4 and 12.2 N). The addition of charcoal increased the thermal conductivity of the film by 34.31%. This promising result shows the biodegradable fiber film is able to increase soil temperature and meet the required temperature for crop growth.