Holistic Approach for the Comparative Assessment of Chemical Structure and Functional Properties of Major Categories...

This study evaluates the performance of major types of conventional and bio-based plastic items commonly used in agriculture to provide comprehensive insights into their key structural and functional properties, including the chemical composition of the polymer matrix and additives, mechanical behavior, and thermal and radiometric properties. Twelve agricultural plastic (AP) items were analyzed: covering mulch films, geotextile ground cover, protection fleece and low tunnel fleece cover, fertilizer sack, fly trap, irrigation pipe, tree binding net, guide for tree, silage film and hay bales protection fabric. This selection of APs also encompasses a broad range of basic polymers, including conventional materials (mainly polyethylene and polypropylene) and bio-based formulations (primarily starch- or lignocellulose-containing blends). Mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy analyses were performed to assess polymer composition and additives. Mechanical properties were assessed through tensile and puncture tests; in addition, radiometric, thermogravimetric, surface wettability, water absorption and permeability tests were also performed to assess other relevant physical characteristics. The study identified significant differences among bio-based biodegradable APs and compared them with their conventional polyolefin-based counterparts. Material composition and structure were found to critically influence water interactions, shaping the balance between durability, degradation, and crop protection performance. Notably, bio-based mulch films exhibited higher water vapor permeability (0.6-1.1 × 10^-13 g/m Pa s), reduced penetration resistance (12.1 N) and lowered impact and tensile strengths (21.8 MPa). Water interaction tests showed that the starch-based mulch film displayed very high swelling (above 100%), favoring biodegradation, whereas a biodegradable blend based on polyhydroxybutyrate and polybutylene succinate exhibited minimal swelling (<3%). Material composition and morphology were also key determinants of water vapor transport: dense polymer films provided superior moisture barriers (permeability range 0.013-0.04 × 10^-13 g/m Pa s), while fibrous or biodegradable materials allowed enhanced vapor permeability. The results of this study, highlighting functionality, advantages and limitations of biodegradable APs versus conventional APs, are intended to guide future innovation in AP design, ensuring alignment with both the operational demands of modern agriculture and environmental sustainability goals. The data obtained from this study can support scientific advancements and policy recommendations on the use and management of plastics in agriculture.