Analysis of the degradation of mulching films in an accelerated degradation chamber

• Grant number: 25/10203-3
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: January 01, 2026
• End date: December 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Analytical Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Cassiana Carolina Montagner
• Grantee: Cassiana Carolina Montagner
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química (IQ). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• City of the host institution: Campinas
• Associated research grant: 22/12104-4 - Fate and impacts of microplastics and pesticides in aquatic and terrestrial matrices in agricultural contexts, AP.TEM
• Associated scholarship(s): 25/23053-0 - Analysis of the degradation of mulching films in an accelerated degradation chamber, BP.IC

Abstract

Mulching films play a crucial role in agriculture by conserving soil moisture, suppressing weeds, regulating soil temperature, and enhancing crop productivity. The environmental degradation of mulching films can lead to the generation of microplastics, harming soil health and nearby ecosystems. However, research on the degradation of mulching films is still limited in the scientific literature. In this context, the present study will evaluate the degradation of four commercial mulching films (low-density polyethylene) of different colors (black, red, silver, and white) over 12 weeks in an industrial accelerated degradation chamber (QUV, Q-lab, USA). The samples (exposure area of 59.9 cm²) will undergo repeated cycles of UVA radiation for eight hours (0.76 W¿cm¿², peak emission at 340 nm) at 60°C, followed by four hours of condensation at 50°C, according to protocol one of ISO 4892-3. Samples will be collected weekly, and the effects of degradation will be measured using mass loss analysis, DSC, FTIR, contact angle, AFM, and SEM. The results will be useful for the proper management of these materials in agriculture to prevent the formation of microplastics. (AU)