Biomass Film Research Articles

A novel bio-based film-forming helper derived from Leuconostoc mesenteroides: A promising alternative to chemicals for the preparation of biomass film

Some microorganisms produce biopolymers with adhesive, film-forming, and plant-promoting properties in their fermentation broths. These biopolymers hold significant potential as substitutes for chemical film-forming helpers in liquid mulch. The present study involved the preparation of a novel bio-based film-forming helper (BFH-L) through the process of bio-fermentation utilizing Leuconostoc mesenteroides. The successful preparation of BFH-L was confirmed through the assessment of adhesive properties and plant growth-promoting efficacy exhibited by L. mesenteroides and BFH-L. The comprehensive genomic analysis of L. mesenteroides provided compelling evidence supporting the effectiveness of BFH-L, which can be attributed to the functional contribution of genes encoding extracellular glycoside polymers from L. mesenteroides. Through the evaluation and comparison of a triangle model, BFH-L can effectively replace chemical film-forming helpers in the preparation of biomass film (BF). The optimal performance of BF was achieved when 3.0 g/600 mL of BFH-L and 30 g/600 mL of cow dung were added. BF exhibited exceptional water retention ability (water loss: 38.00 ± 3.46 %), superior plant growth promotion effect (germination rate: 100.00 ± 0 %, plant growth: 0.34 ± 0.03 g), and minimal environmental impact (pH value = 8.7). This research provides a new strategy for reducing plastic film pollution while achieving green recycling of organic solid waste from agriculture and animal husbandry.

Mechanical properties and biodegradation characteristics of PHB-based films

An effect of plasticizers on physical properties and biodegradation characteristics of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) based films have been investigated. Laprol was a good plasticizer for PHB and for PHB containing biomass (BM) of Azotobacter chroococcum 23. A maximum plasticizing effect was attained with a LAP concentration up to 30% w/w. The biodegradation rate of PHB and BM films significantly decreased with an increase in laprol concentration. The dominant PHB-degrading soil microorganisms isolated from the tested PHB-based films have been identified. The dominant genera among bacteria were Pseudomonas, Azotobacter, Bacillus, and Streptomyces and among fungi — Penicillium, Cephalosporium, Paecilomyces, and Trichoderma. An effect of the PHB-based film composition on the quantitative changes of main microorganism groups in soil prior and post film incubation was determined.