Experimental Processing of Biodegradable Drip Irrigation Systems—Possibilities and Limitations

Abstract

The increased cost associated with the waste removal and disposal of conventional agricultural plastic in contact with the soil combined with the gradually decreasing cost of the biodegradable plastics allowed the commercialization of biodegradable mulching films. Since the conventional thin wall or tape drip irrigation system lies under the mulching film and is used for one season only, it would be desirable to replace it with a biodegradable one. This paper presents the results of a research work investigating the possibilities and limitations in developing biodegradable drip irrigation thin wall pipes and pipes. The first ever experimental biodegradable drip irrigation thin wall pipes were produced. Rigid pipes were also produced for experimental purposes. Manufacturing problems were encountered in the processing of the biodegradable drippers and irrigation thin wall pipes with the experimental materials due to the complex formulation of the raw materials and the fact that the machinery used was specifically designed for PE processing. Experimental biodegradable thin wall pipes made of Bioflex with embedded drippers made of Mater-Bi were produced. The processing problems encountered with the production of thin wall pipes were surpassed during the experimental production of rigid type irrigation pipes. A biodegradable rigid irrigation pipe made of a grade of Mater-Bi, with embedded cylindrical drippers made of another grade of Mater-Bi was produced successfully. A better understanding of the thermal profile of the biodegradable raw materials and the use of processing equipment adapted to this profile might allow in the future the manufacturing of thin wall drip irrigation pipes for agricultural applications, and the use of alternative biodegradable materials.