Parameter optimization of a biodegradable agricultural film manufactured with wheat straw fiber

Abstract

Straw fiber mulch film is a promising alternative to petroleum-based plastic mulching film. The optimal combination of process parameters during the manufacturing process of the wheat straw fiber-based plant fiber film (hereinafter referred to as film), was studied via a five-factor and five-level central composite design methodology. Response surface methodology was used to analyze the effects of sizing agent content, wet strength agent mass fraction, basis weight, KP pulp mixing ratio, and beating degree of wheat straw fiber on the dry tensile index, wet tensile index, and degradation time. The optimal parameters were as follows: a sizing agent content of 2.0%, a wet strength agent mass fraction of 60%, a beating degree of wheat straw fiber of 60 °SR, a basis weight of 54.6 to 60.8 g/m2, and a KP pulp mixing ratio of 37.6% to 44.7%. These parameters achieved the desired physical properties, i.e., a degradation time of 55 to 65 d, a dry tensile index of 10 to 12 N·m/g, and a wet tensile index 3.5 to 5.5 N·m/g. With the optimal manufacturing parameters, straw mulch film would meet the demands for agriculture.