Biodegradation properties of natural fibers for agro textile nonwovens production

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to investigate biodegradation properties of PLA (as a bio-based polymer), Hemp, Jute (as natural bast fibers) and Viscose (as a cellulose regenerates) for agrotextile nonwovens production. For the purpose of those investigations, an analysis of the biodegradation time of samples were performed by soil burial test (ISO 11721 – Textiles – Determination of resistance of cellulose-containing textiles to microorganisms – Soil burial test ) conducted under controlled conditions in laboratory and under real weather conditions. The samples were exposed in the soil for 4, 7, 9 and 11 days. An analysis of mass loss and changes in their mechanical properties, compared to unexposed samples, were determined.