Biodegradable poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate)/polylactic acid mulching films containing glufosinate...

Biodegradable poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT)-based mulching films are currently attracting a lot of attention in the agricultural sector for boosting crops yields whilst preventing plastic waste accumulating in the environment. However, PBAT-based films are easily broken by weeds and then rapidly degrade resulting in a loss of moisture retention function. In this work, a series of PBAT/polylactic acid (PLA) mulching films containing glufosinate-ammonium-loaded nano layered double hydroxide nanosheets (Glu@LDH, with Glu loadings between 6 and 60 %) were successfully prepared. Results revealed that the addition of 3 wt% Glu@LDH (10 % Glu) to PBAT/PLA films resulted in improved mechanical and water vapor retention properties. Furthermore, the films showed an exceptional sustained release of Glu, which enhanced the weed control efficacy of the composite films and contributed to film longevity (76 days without any obvious damage to the surface of the films in weed control tests). This work demonstrates a simple way of extending the functional life of PBAT-based mulching films and thus holds significant importance for enhancing agricultural production efficiency, reducing production costs, safeguarding the environment, and fostering the sustainable development of agriculture.