Comparison of Physical and Thermal Properties of Mulching Films Made of Different Polymeric Materials

Abstract

The development of polymer materials causes their huge expansion into various areas of everyday life, as well as plant and animal production. Their chemical resistance, good physical properties, and ease of processing result in an increasing use of this group of materials. Outdoor plant production both in open plantations and greenhouses requires various types of materials supporting the vegetation process as well as protecting against pests and weeds. A large group here are various types of materials used for covers of field crops, the main role of which is to prevent uncontrolled and excessive growth of weeds and thus reduce the use of herbicides as plant protection products. Cover films also have other important functions, such as reducing direct water evaporation, better moisture retention around the root system, increasing soil temperature (faster vegetation), etc. However, as always, the problem of introducing new material into agriculture production and the difficulty of its disposal arises. In recent times, farmers’ interest in various forms of mulch to protect crops and increase yields has grown significantly. In the publication, the authors attempted to analyze selected commercial properties, but also mulch produced on a laboratory scale, based on biodegradable and petroleum-derived materials.