Characterization of galactomannans and cellulose fibres based composites for new mulching spray technology

In order to develop new eco-sustainable technologies to set up biodegradable films for agricultural activities, spray mulching coating have been planned, prepared and tested on experimental fields. The suitable polymers used to this purpose were Arabic Gums and Agarose. Cellulose fibres were added to the polymeric water solution to improve the mulching power and to increase the tensile strength of the composite; glycerol as plasticizer was added in order to improve the mechanical response of mulching coatings. On the composites sprayed and naturally aged on the soil, both in greenhouse and in open field, mechanical, water vapor transmission rate and morphological analyses were carried out; the different environment influenced the outcomes of studied properties, evidencing better results and promising perspectives for composites employed and aged under controlled atmosphere of greenhouse.