Abstract
The effect of different ionic crosslinking parameters on the thickness, radiometric profiles, and mechanical and water vapor permeation (WVP) properties of alginate mulching films was investigated. Crosslinking by Mn2+, Zn2+, and Ca2+ (but not Al3+) increased the tensile strength and light transmission and decreased the WVP of the films. Among the films, those crosslinked by Ca2+ had the greatest tensile strength and exhibited the highest elongation and light transmission. Furthermore, the WVP and light transmission decreased gradually with increasing Ca2+ concentration, and the maximum tensile strength and elongation were obtained for 2% (w/v) of Ca2+. However, the WVP of the films increased gradually with increasing crosslinking time, and the elongation saturated after 2min. These results suggest that alginate films crosslinked by 2% (w/v) calcium chloride for 2min had the best overall performance and therefore have the potential to be used as entirely biodegradable agricultural mulching films.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
