Degradable bag for seedlings.

Degradable bag for cassava starch-based seedbeds

invention patent No. 16004103, Colombia (granted)

Biodegradable bag for seedlings made from a flexible film obtained from cassava starch, plasticizer, polylactic acid (PLA), incorporating a novel biodegradable color concentrate or masterbatch. Its purpose is to contain the substrate on which seedlings of various crops are planted, generally for a period of 1 to 4 months, until they reach an adequate stage of development prior to transplanting.

Agriculture, Sustainable development, Environment

bag for seedlings.

biodegradable bag, natural polymer, does not threaten food safety and has a shorter degradation time.

It has a high level of biodegradability, as it is based on agricultural products and contains matrix-based masterbatches with natural components.
The biodegradation time of the bag under compostable conditions is approximately 45 days.
Producers avoid the removal at the moment of transplanting to the final crop, which saves time and labor.
The need for final disposal of plastic waste is eliminated.
Compared to their non-woven, pots or cellulose-based counterparts, the bags have greater strength, are less expensive, meet biodegradability criteria and take up less warehouse space.

Universidad del Cauca.

TRL6