BIODEGRADABLE CROP PROTECTION FILMS FOR SUSTAINABLE FARMING

Abstract

This invention introduces a biodegradable crop protection film derived from Quercus griffithii leaves, offering soil coverage, weed suppression, and antibacterial properties. The film decomposes naturally, releasing nutrients that improve soil health and support sustainable agriculture. This eco-friendly solution provides an alternative to plastic mulches, promoting environmentally responsible farming practices.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to agricultural materials and sustainable farming technology, specifically focusing on biodegradable crop protection films. These films are designed to provide soil coverage, reduce weed growth, and enhance nutrient retention while decomposing naturally, contributing to eco-friendly agricultural practices.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Traditional plastic films used for crop protection have long-term negative impacts on soil and the environment due to their non-biodegradable nature. These films accumulate in agricultural fields, causing pollution, hindering soil aeration, and contributing to toxic waste. Current alternatives, though biodegradable, often fail to deliver the necessary durability and effectiveness for crop protection. Furthermore, the annual leaf fall from various tree species, including Quercus griffithii in the temperate regions of the Himalayas, remains underutilized despite being rich in nutrients and fibrous content suitable for biodegradable film production. This invention addresses these issues by using the natural fibers and cellulose content in Quercus griffithii leaves to create biodegradable films. These films not only provide effective soil protection and weed suppression but also enrich the soil as they decompose, supporting sustainable agriculture.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that are further described in the detailed description of the invention.
This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.
To further clarify advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.
The invention provides a biodegradable crop protection film composed of natural fibers and cellulose derived from Quercus griffithii leaves, combined with natural binders like cornstarch or agar. This film is designed to cover soil, suppress weed growth, retain soil moisture, and gradually decompose, releasing nutrients into the soil. The inclusion of phenolic and terpenoid compounds from the leaves adds antibacterial properties to the film, enhancing soil health. The eco-friendly nature of this film offers a sustainable solution for farmers seeking an alternative to conventional plastic mulch, promoting healthier crops and improved soil quality.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The detailed description of various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure is described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments are described herein in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of details provided herein is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
It is also to be understood that various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as specific examples, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a"," "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes" and/or "including," when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof.
It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions/acts noted may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two figures shown in succession may, in fact, be executed concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved.
In addition, the descriptions of "first", "second", "third", and the like in the present invention are used for the purpose of description only, and are not to be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Thus, features defining "first" and "second" may include at least one of the features, either explicitly or implicitly.
Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, e.g., those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
The biodegradable crop protection film developed in this invention leverages the natural composition of Quercus griffithii leaves, which are abundant in fibrous content and nutrients suitable for agricultural applications. The leaves contain cellulose, phenolic compounds, and terpenoids, providing the film with both structural strength and antimicrobial properties. These leaves are collected, processed, and combined with natural binders such as cornstarch or agar, forming a flexible, biodegradable sheet suitable for agricultural use.
When applied to the soil, the film acts as a protective layer, preventing weed growth by blocking sunlight and creating a physical barrier. This reduces the need for herbicides, supporting an eco-friendly approach to weed management. The film's moisture retention capabilities help reduce irrigation requirements, conserving water and ensuring optimal soil moisture levels for crop growth. Over time, the film naturally decomposes, with the phenolic and terpenoid compounds contributing antibacterial properties to the soil, promoting a healthier growing environment by inhibiting harmful soil pathogens.
The decomposition process of the film enriches the soil with organic matter, enhancing its structure and fertility. Unlike conventional plastic mulches, which persist in the soil and cause pollution, this biodegradable film integrates fully into the soil, leaving no harmful residues. The combination of Quercus griffithii fibers with natural binders provides a cost-effective, environmentally friendly solution that supports sustainable farming practices. The film can be tailored for different crop types and seasonal requirements, making it versatile for a variety of agricultural applications.
, Claims:1. A biodegradable crop protection film composed of natural fibers and cellulose derived from Quercus griffithii leaves, combined with natural binders, suitable for soil coverage, weed suppression, and nutrient retention.
2. The film as claimed in Claim 1, wherein phenolic and terpenoid compounds provide antibacterial properties, enhancing soil health by inhibiting harmful pathogens.
3. The film as claimed in Claim 1, wherein it decomposes naturally, releasing nutrients into the soil and improving soil structure without leaving harmful residues.
4. The film as claimed in Claim 1, wherein natural binders like cornstarch or agar are used to enhance the flexibility and durability of the film.
5. A method of producing a biodegradable crop protection film as claimed in Claim 1, involving the collection of Quercus griffithii leaves, fiber extraction, and combination with natural binders to form a biodegradable sheet.
6. The film as claimed in Claim 1, wherein it provides moisture retention and weed suppression, reducing the need for irrigation and herbicides in agricultural fields.

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