WO2025247779A1 - Procédé de production de longueurs continues de bouchons de propagation ou de tiges, et bouchons de propagation ou tiges produits par ledit procédé - Google Patents

Procédé de production de longueurs continues de bouchons de propagation ou de tiges, et bouchons de propagation ou tiges produits par ledit procédé

Info

Publication number
WO2025247779A1
WO2025247779A1 PCT/EP2025/064381 EP2025064381W WO2025247779A1 WO 2025247779 A1 WO2025247779 A1 WO 2025247779A1 EP 2025064381 W EP2025064381 W EP 2025064381W WO 2025247779 A1 WO2025247779 A1 WO 2025247779A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
netting
sheet material
range
mesh sheet
mesh
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
PCT/EP2025/064381
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Bjarne Brun Pedersen
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Ellepot AS
Original Assignee
Ellepot AS
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Ellepot AS filed Critical Ellepot AS
Publication of WO2025247779A1 publication Critical patent/WO2025247779A1/fr
Pending legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G24/00—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor
    • A01G24/60—Apparatus for preparing growth substrates or culture media
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G24/00—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor
    • A01G24/40—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor characterised by their structure
    • A01G24/44—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor characterised by their structure in block, mat or sheet form
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G24/00—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor
    • A01G24/20—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor based on or containing natural organic material
    • A01G24/28—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor based on or containing natural organic material containing peat, moss or sphagnum
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G24/00—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor
    • A01G24/30—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor based on or containing synthetic organic compounds
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G24/00—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor
    • A01G24/40—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor characterised by their structure
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G24/00—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor
    • A01G24/50—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor contained within a flexible envelope
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G9/00—Cultivation in receptacles, forcing-frames or greenhouses; Edging for beds, lawn or the like
    • A01G9/02—Receptacles, e.g. flower-pots or boxes; Glasses for cultivating flowers
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G9/00—Cultivation in receptacles, forcing-frames or greenhouses; Edging for beds, lawn or the like
    • A01G9/02—Receptacles, e.g. flower-pots or boxes; Glasses for cultivating flowers
    • A01G9/029—Receptacles for seedlings

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the production of propagation plugs or rods, primarily blocks with growth medium, for the growing of cuttings and seed plants, and of the type consisting of a cylindrical block or rod having an envelope of sheet material and an associated filling of growth medium.
  • Non-woven paper known for its versatility and environmental friendliness, serves as an ideal candidate for creating biodegradable plant pots.
  • This material typically made from medium to long fibres bonded mechanically, thermally, or chemically, is not only sturdy but also breathable, which is crucial for plant growth.
  • sphagnum as a growth medium complements the non-woven paper by providing excellent water retention properties and promoting healthy root development.
  • Sphagnum moss often used in horticulture, helps maintain moisture and nutrients, offering a conducive environment for roots to thrive.
  • the non-woven paper must be perforated. Perforation of the paper is critical as it allows roots to penetrate the walls of the pot, thereby allowing for air pruning of the plant roots. Air pruning functions by allowing the surrounding dry air to disturb or prune the penetrating (through the sheet material) tip of the roots. Once the roots are air pruned, they lose their dominance, and many secondary roots develop to replace them. These are then in turn also air pruned and again they are replaced by even more roots. Air pruning therefore results in a root system with a very large quantity of young vigorous roots that are needed for a subsequent transplanting operation where the larger number of roots quickly grow outwards, giving the plant a great head start.
  • the manufacturing process involves designing the paper to be durable enough to hold the growth medium and the developing plant while ensuring it will break down in the soil without leaving harmful residues. This biodegradability is a key feature, reducing plastic use and waste in gardening and commercial agriculture.
  • the inventor of the present invention has developed a sheet netting or mesh that is compatible with the current methods of producing paper plant pots, such that the sheet or mesh netting can merely be used in stead of the nonwoven paper.
  • the netting or mesh have been found to need a mesh size within the range of 0.1 to 1.5 mm to allow roots to penetrate the walls of the pot thereby to allowing for air pruning of the plant roots while still being able to retain the growth medium that it supports.
  • a first aspect relates to a method of manufacturing a continuous length of propagation pots or rods comprising:
  • netting or mesh sheet material has a mesh size within the range of 0.1 to 1.5 mm;
  • a second aspect relates to a propagation plug or rod produced by the method according to the first aspect.
  • a third aspect relates to a propagation plug or rod comprising a growth medium held in a netting or mesh sheet material having a mesh size within the range of 0.1 to 1.5 mm.
  • continuous lengths of propagation plugs or rods refers to the production of growth medium plugs or rods, which is made in a continuous line as e.g., disclosed in WO9203914. The length of growth medium is thereafter cut into pieces of suitable size (length relative to the diameter), corresponding to the desired size of a propagation pot or rod.
  • propagation plug also covers the term “plant pot”. The propagation pots and rods may e.g., be used for seedlings, seeds, flowers, and trees.
  • growth medium refers to physical support for plant growth, or the germination of a seed to take place, providing water retention, aeration, and optionally nutrient supply.
  • growth medium may e.g., be mosses in general, sphagnum, peat moss, soil, composted bark, potting mixes, bark, vermiculite, stone wool, polymeric foam, or a corresponding substrate material.
  • netting and “mesh” may be used interchangeably. However, in meshes are typically evaluated based on their ability to allow passage of air and liquids through precisely defined and uniform openings, and are typically made by weaving, or welding wires or fibres together. Nets generally refers to a fabric-like material made by knotting a thread or cord at intersections, creating a grid that can be elastic or fixed, and evaluated more for their physical properties and ability to contain objects, with various sizes and types of openings depending on the specific use.
  • the mesh sizes of the netting or mesh sheet material is between 0.1 to 1.5 mm, preferably within the range of 0.2-1.4 mm, such as within the range of 0.3-1.3 mm, e.g., within the range of 0.4-1.2 mm, such as within the range of 0.5-1.1 mm, e.g., within the range of 0.6-1.0 mm, such as within the range of 0.7-0.9 mm.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material is biodegradable.
  • biodegradable means that the referred substance or object is capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material is in some embodiments made from biodegradable polymers, preferably from polylactic acid (PLA), preferably combined with polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), polybutylene succinate (PBS), or polycaprolactone (PCL).
  • the method further comprises cutting the continuously produced length of propagation plugs into individual lengths of propagation plugs or rods.
  • the length of the propagation rod may preferably be within the range of 0.5-20 meters, such as within the range of 1-18 meters, e.g., within the range of 2-16 meters, such as within the range of 3-14 meters, e.g., within the range of 4-15 meters, such as within the range of 5-14 meters, and even more preferably within the range of 5-10 meters.
  • the length of the propagation plug may preferably be within the range of 1-49 cm, such as within the range of 5-45 cm, e.g., within the range of 10-40 cm, such as within the range of 15-35 cm, e.g., within the range of 20-30 cm.
  • Both the propagation plugs and rods are preferably tubular.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material exhibits an open area within the range of 15% to 40%, e.g., within the range of 20-35%, such as within the range of 25-30%. This configuration allows the netting or mesh sheet material to be air permeable.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material may have air permeability of at least 75 l/m 2 *s, preferably of 100 to 5000 l/m 2 *s.
  • An air permeability of at least 75 l/m 2 *s, and preferably of at least 100 l/m 2 *s enables the netting or mesh sheet material to provide the propagation plug or rod with a sufficient breathability to enable the growth of a plant disposed in this propagation plug or rod.
  • an air permeability of more than 5000 l/m 2 *s may lead to a too open structure and the retention of the growth medium used to fill the propagation plug might not be ensured.
  • the air permeability is measured according to ISO Standard 9237 at 196 Pa and reported in liter per square meter per second (l/m 2 *s).
  • the netting or mesh sheet material experiences an elongation in the Cross Direction of within the range of 3-15%, preferably within the range of 5-10 %.
  • the elongation may e.g., be measured according to ISO 13934-2.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material experiences an elongation in Machine Direction of within the range of 3-15%, preferably within the range of 5-10 %.
  • the elongation may e.g., be measured according to ISO 13934-2
  • the netting or mesh sheet material has a bending stiffness in the Cross Direction of within the range of 3-20 N/m, preferably within the range of 5-15 N/m.
  • the bending stiffness may e.g., be measured according to ISO 2493.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material has a bending stiffness in Machine Direction of within the range of 3-20 N/m, preferably within the range of 5-15 N/m.
  • the bending stiffness may e.g., be measured according to ISO
  • the netting or mesh sheet material has a weight of within the range of 15-50 grams per square meter.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material has a grammage within the range of 15 to 40 g/m 2 , preferably within the range of 20 to 35 g/m 2 , and preferably a thickness of 50-300 micrometres at 100 kPa, measured according to ISO Standard 534:1988.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material has a thickness of within the range of 60-500 microns at 100 kPa, measured according to ISO Standard 534:1988.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material has a thickness of within the range of 60-500 microns.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material may comprise additives conventionally employed in netting or mesh, preferably as long as they are biodegradable. If present, these additives may be included in amounts of less than 10 wt%, preferably less than 5 wt%, based on total weight of the (biodegradable) netting or mesh.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material is formulated with an additive adapted for enhancing the biodegradability thereof, such as enzymes (e.g., a PET hydrolase), transition metal salts (e.g., cobalt or manganese salts), biodegradable plasticizers, photodegradable additives (e.g., UV-sensitive additives), and peroxides.
  • an additive adapted for enhancing the biodegradability thereof, such as enzymes (e.g., a PET hydrolase), transition metal salts (e.g., cobalt or manganese salts), biodegradable plasticizers, photodegradable additives (e.g., UV-sensitive additives), and peroxides.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material will typically and preferably exhibit a degradation time of at least 30 days, preferably 40 days, in soil.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material disclosed herein may be employed for forming (biodegradable) propagation plugs, such as plant plugs, such as propagation plugs for flowers and trees.
  • the method further comprises the step of conveying the lining hose containing the compacted sphagnum or a corresponding substrate material from the suction chamber by gripping the lining hose and moving the gripped lining hose.
  • Another aspect relates to a netting or mesh sheet material supplied on a reel, the sheet material being for producing continuous lengths of propagation plugs; wherein the netting or mesh sheet material has a mesh size within the range of 0.1 to 1.5 mm.
  • Yet another aspect relates to a netting or mesh sheet material supplied on a reel; wherein the netting or mesh sheet material has a mesh size within the range of 0.1 to 1.5 mm.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material is preferably made from a thermoplastic polymer, preferably a biodegradable thermoplastic polymer.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material may be coated with a hot- melt adhesive.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material may preferably be provided with a hot-melt adhesive. This embodiment allows for an easier joining of the edge area of the lining hose in the heating station.
  • hot-melt adhesive refers to a thermoplastic polymer or copolymer (e.g., polyhydroxybutyrate, polyhydroxyvalerate, or polyhydroxyalkanoate) that is heated to obtain a liquid of flowable viscosity, and, after application, cooled to obtain a solid.
  • the molecular weight of the adhesive is tailored to provide good rheology as a melt and sufficient strength as a solid to resist shearing forces experienced in the application.
  • the primary feature of hot-melt adhesives is the ability of the thermoplastic material (e.g., polyhydroxybutyrate, polyhydroxyvalerate, or polyhydroxyalkanoate) to flow above a certain temperature, and to provide a strong bond at the normal use temperature. Upon cooling, the material hardens, either through passing through the glass transition temperature or the crystallization temperature. This hardening provides physical integrity to the bond.
  • the hot melt may be coated on the entire face, or on both faces, of the biodegradable (and preferably air permeable) composite sheet material.
  • the hot melt is coated only on the one or two side edge areas (in the longitudinal direction) of the composite sheet material, since only the joining edge area needs fixation.
  • the hot melt adhesive comprises or consists of one or more biodegradable polymers selected from the group consisting of poly(lactic acid), aliphatic biopolyesters, polyhydroxybutyrate, polyhydroxyvalerate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, cellulose-based polymers, polycapreolactone, and mixtures thereof.
  • polyhydroxyalkanoates have shown also to function as soil conditioner.
  • soil conditioner implies compounds, which favourably alter the physical and/or chemical properties of soil.
  • the concept of using polymer materials as soil conditioners is not new.
  • Natural polymers such as polyuronic acids, alginic acids, agar, gum, pectin, starch, etc. have been successfully used in the past for soil conditioning.
  • the hot melt adhesive comprises or consists of polyhydroxyalkanoates.
  • PHAs polyhydroxyalkanoates
  • soil microbes for use as intracellular storage material.
  • nonwoven sheet material made from the polymers are generally recognized by soil microbes as a food source.
  • the hot melt adhesive comprises or consists of one or more biodegradable polymers selected from the group consisting of a poly(3- hydroxy butyrate) homopolymer, a poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate), a poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate), a poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-5- hydroxyvalerate), a poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate), and mixtures thereof.
  • the hot melt adhesive comprises or consists of one or more biodegradable polymers of non-GMO (genetically modified organism) origin.
  • the hot melt adhesive may comprise at least 50% w/w of one or more biodegradable polymers, such as at least 55% w/w, e.g., at least 40% w/w, such as at least 65% w/w, e.g., at least 70% w/w, such as at least 75% w/w, e.g., at least 80% w/w, such as at least 85% w/w, e.g., at least 90% w/w, such as at least 95% w/w, e.g., at least 99% w/w.
  • Other components may be inorganic fillers or biodegradable organic fillers.
  • hot melt adhesive comprises a reactive filler component, such as an aluminium compound, a magnesium compound, a calcium compound, a barium compound or a mixture thereof.
  • a reactive filler component such as an aluminium compound, a magnesium compound, a calcium compound, a barium compound or a mixture thereof.
  • acidic functional groups for example carboxylic acid groups, carboxylic acid anhydride groups, hydroxyl groups, acidic amine groups, sulfonic acid groups, phosphonic acid groups, etc.
  • the reactive filler may be, for example, in the form of oxides, hydroxides, silicates, etc., or a mixture thereof.
  • Some exemplary compounds include, for example, aluminum oxide (AI203), aluminum hydroxide (AI(OH)3), magnesium oxide (MgO), magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2), calcium oxide (CaO), calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2), barium oxide (BaO), barium hydroxide (Ba(OH)2), aluminometasilicates, fluoroaluminosilicates and mixtures thereof.
  • Aluminium compounds are particularly preferred, especially aluminium compounds that react with acidic functional groups.
  • Aluminium oxide aluminium hydroxide, aluminium silicate, aluminium metasilicate and mixtures thereof are of particular note.
  • the reactive filler may be present in the hot-melt adhesive composition in any suitable amount. Of particular note is an amount of about 5% to about 50% by weight, or, of about 10% to about 45% by weight, or, of about 15% to about 40% by weight, based on the weight of the hot-melt adhesive composition. Use of reactive filler in the amounts noted above helps to bring characteristics of the adhesive composition closer to those of the biodegradable and air permeable nonwoven sheet material in terms of thermal expansion, deformation, stiffness, etc.
  • the amounts noted above also lead to less shrinkage due to consolidation thus reducing internal stress in the adhesive, to less stress concentration in a joint formed with the adhesive, to better fatigue resistance in the joint, and to decreased sensitivity of the adhesive composition to moisture.
  • Another aspect relates to a netting or mesh sheet material supplied on a reel, the sheet material being of the type used for producing continuous lengths of propagation plugs; wherein the netting or mesh sheet material has a mesh size within the range of 0.1 to 1.5 mm; and wherein the netting or mesh sheet material comprises a hot melt adhesive comprising one or more biodegradable polymers; wherein the hot melt adhesive is supplied to at least a part of a face of the composite sheet material.
  • Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a system performing the method in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.
  • Continuous lengths of propagation plugs or rods refers to the production of growth medium plugs or rods, which is made in a continuous line as e.g., disclosed in WO9203914. The length of growth medium is thereafter cut into pieces of suitable size (length relative to the diameter), corresponding to the desired size of a propagation pot or rod.
  • the term “propagation plug” also covers the term “plant pot”. The propagation pots and rods may e.g., be used for seedlings, seeds, flowers, and trees.
  • Growth medium refers to physical support for plant growth, or the germination of a seed to take place, providing water retention, aeration, and optionally nutrient supply.
  • growth medium may e.g., be mosses in general, sphagnum, peat moss, soil, composted bark, potting mixes, bark, vermiculite, stone wool, polymeric foam, or a corresponding substrate material.
  • Netting and “mesh” may be used interchangeably. However, meshes are typically evaluated based on their ability to allow passage of air and liquids through precisely defined and uniform openings, and are typically made by weaving, or welding wires or fibres together. Nets generally refer to a fabric-like material made by knotting a thread or cord at intersections, creating a grid that can be elastic or fixed, and evaluated more for their physical properties and ability to contain objects, with various sizes and types of openings depending on the specific use.
  • the mesh sizes of the netting or mesh sheet material is between 0.1 to 1.5 mm, preferably within the range of 0.2-1.4 mm, such as within the range of 0.3-1.3 mm, e.g., within the range of 0.4-1.2 mm, such as within the range of 0.5-1.1 mm, e.g., within the range of 0.6-1.0 mm, such as within the range of 0.7-0.9 mm.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material is biodegradable.
  • biodegradable means that the referred substance or object is capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material is in some embodiments made from biodegradable polymers, preferably from polylactic acid (PLA), preferably combined with polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), polybutylene succinate (PBS), or polycaprolactone (PCL).
  • the method further comprises cutting the continuously produced length of propagation plugs into individual lengths of propagation plugs or rods.
  • the length of the propagation rod may preferably be within the range of 0.5-20 meters, such as within the range of 1-18 meters, e.g., within the range of 2-16 meters, such as within the range of 3-14 meters, e.g., within the range of 4-15 meters, such as within the range of 5-14 meters, and even more preferably within the range of 5-10 meters.
  • the length of the propagation plug may preferably be within the range of 1-49 cm, such as within the range of 5-45 cm, e.g., within the range of 10-40 cm, such as within the range of 15-35 cm, e.g., within the range of 20-30 cm. Both the propagation plugs and rods are preferably tubular.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material exhibits an open area within the range of 15% to 40%, e.g., within the range of 20-35%, such as within the range of 25-30%. This configuration allows the netting or mesh sheet material to be air permeable.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material may have air permeability of at least 75 l/m 2 s, preferably of 100 to 5000 l/m 2 s.
  • An air permeability of at least 75 l/m 2 s, and preferably of at least 100 l/m 2 s enables the netting or mesh sheet material to provide the propagation plug or rod with a sufficient breathability to enable the growth of a plant disposed in this propagation plug or rod.
  • an air permeability of more than 5000 l/m 2 s may lead to a too open structure and the retention of the growth medium used to fill the propagation plug might not be ensured.
  • the air permeability is measured according to ISO Standard 9237 at 196 Pa and reported in liter per square meter per second (l/m 2 s).
  • the netting or mesh sheet material experiences an elongation in the Cross Direction of within the range of 3-15%, preferably within the range of 5-10 %.
  • the elongation may e.g., be measured according to ISO 13934-2.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material experiences an elongation in Machine Direction of within the range of 3-15%, preferably within the range of 5-10 %.
  • the elongation may e.g., be measured according to ISO 13934-2.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material has a bending stiffness in the Cross Direction of within the range of 3-20 N/m, preferably within the range of 5-15 N/m.
  • the bending stiffness may e.g., be measured according to ISO 2493.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material has a bending stiffness in Machine Direction of within the range of 3-20 N/m, preferably within the range of 5-15 N/m.
  • the bending stiffness may e.g., be measured according to ISO 2493.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material has a weight of within the range of 15-50 grams per square meter.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material has a grammage within the range of 15 to 40 g/m 2 , preferably within the range of 20 to 35 g/m 2 , and preferably a thickness of 50-300 micrometres at 100 kPa, measured according to ISO Standard 534:1988.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material has a thickness of within the range of 60-500 microns at 100 kPa, measured according to ISO Standard 534:1988.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material has a thickness of within the range of 60-500 microns.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material may comprise additives conventionally employed in netting or mesh, preferably as long as they are biodegradable. If present, these additives may be included in amounts of less than 10 wt%, preferably less than 5 wt%, based on total weight of the (biodegradable) netting or mesh.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material is formulated with an additive adapted for enhancing the biodegradability thereof, such as enzymes (e.g., a PET hydrolase), transition metal salts (e.g., cobalt or manganese salts), biodegradable plasticizers, photodegradable additives (e.g., UV-sensitive additives), and peroxides.
  • an additive adapted for enhancing the biodegradability thereof, such as enzymes (e.g., a PET hydrolase), transition metal salts (e.g., cobalt or manganese salts), biodegradable plasticizers, photodegradable additives (e.g., UV-sensitive additives), and peroxides.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material will typically and preferably exhibit a degradation time of at least 30 days, preferably 40 days, in soil.
  • the method further comprises the step of conveying the lining hose containing the compacted sphagnum or a corresponding substrate material from the suction chamber by gripping the lining hose and moving the gripped lining hose.
  • the suction chamber may be configured as a movable, axially reciprocating unit.
  • the suction chamber may be formed by two half-shells that enclose a perforated suction tube. After compacting the growth medium into the mesh-lined hose, the suction chamber can be moved forward to discharge the compacted portion of the rod and draw the mesh material forward. The chamber is then opened (i.e. , the two halves separate), allowing it to return to its starting position.
  • This reciprocating mechanism enables continuous, stepwise advancement of the propagation rod through the manufacturing line without relying on high-friction contact or mechanical pushing.
  • Residual plug sealing effect In certain configurations, a portion of compacted substrate remains in the outlet conduit of the suction chamber after each discharge cycle. This residual plug acts as a partial air seal for the following cycle, improving suction efficiency and consistency in substrate packing. This arrangement eliminates the need for temporary mechanical closures at the suction chamber inlet and simplifies system operation.
  • a suction pressure regulator may optionally be included in the system to modulate the vacuum level during substrate compaction.
  • suction strength By adjusting suction strength, the density of the compacted plug can be fine-tuned depending on the moisture content or particle size of the substrate material. This allows for consistent plug integrity and performance across a range of raw materials and environmental conditions.
  • suction-based advancement of the substrate-filled mesh tube is preferred due to its simplicity and reliability, alternative methods may be considered.
  • mechanical advancement systems using rollers, friction drives, or toothed wheels engaging the exterior of the rod may be employed.
  • such alternatives may introduce higher friction and complexity, particularly when processing soft or fibrous materials.
  • suction-assisted methods remain the most effective and low-maintenance solution.
  • the system may be equipped with a sub-pressure sensor or vacuum gauge connected to the suction conduit. This allows for real-time monitoring of suction conditions within the chamber. A significant pressure rise indicates that the chamber is fully filled and the airflow is restricted by compacted substrate, providing a reliable signal for initiating the chamber’s discharge and return cycle.
  • the rod of substrate enclosed in the mesh tube is advanced to a cutting unit.
  • This unit may employ a reciprocating knife, rotary cutter, or saw to divide the rod into discrete propagation plugs or rods of defined length.
  • the cut plugs may then be dropped into funnel chutes or positioned above receiver trays.
  • a push-down piston system ensures that each plug is accurately placed into a corresponding cell or socket in a tray system, enhancing automation and reducing handling errors.
  • Another aspect relates to a netting or mesh sheet material supplied on a reel, the sheet material being for producing continuous lengths of propagation plugs; wherein the netting or mesh sheet material has a mesh size within the range of 0.1 to 1.5 mm.
  • Yet another aspect relates to a netting or mesh sheet material supplied on a reel; wherein the netting or mesh sheet material has a mesh size within the range of 0.1 to 1.5 mm.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material is preferably made from a thermoplastic polymer, preferably a biodegradable thermoplastic polymer.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material may be coated with a hot- melt adhesive.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material may preferably be provided with a hot-melt adhesive. This embodiment allows for an easier joining of the edge area of the lining hose in the heating station.
  • hot-melt adhesive refers to a thermoplastic polymer or copolymer (e.g., polyhydroxybutyrate, polyhydroxyvalerate, or polyhydroxyalkanoate) that is heated to obtain a liquid of flowable viscosity, and, after application, cooled to obtain a solid.
  • the hot melt may be coated on the entire face, or on both faces, of the biodegradable (and preferably air permeable) composite sheet material.
  • the hot melt is coated only on the one or two side edge areas (in the longitudinal direction) of the composite sheet material, since only the joining edge area needs fixation.
  • the hot melt adhesive comprises or consists of one or more biodegradable polymers selected from the group consisting of poly(lactic acid), aliphatic biopolyesters, polyhydroxybutyrate, polyhydroxyvalerate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, cellulose-based polymers, polycapreolactone, and mixtures thereof.
  • soil conditioner implies compounds, which favourably alter the physical and/or chemical properties of soil.
  • the hot melt adhesive comprises or consists of polyhydroxyalkanoates.
  • PHAs polyhydroxyalkanoates
  • soil microbes for use as intracellular storage material.
  • nonwoven sheet material made from the polymers are generally recognized by soil microbes as a food source.
  • the hot melt adhesive comprises or consists of one or more biodegradable polymers selected from the group consisting of a poly(3- hydroxy butyrate) homopolymer, a poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate), a poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate), a poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-5- hydroxyvalerate), a poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate), and mixtures thereof.
  • biodegradable polymers selected from the group consisting of a poly(3- hydroxy butyrate) homopolymer, a poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate), a poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate), a poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-5- hydroxyvalerate), a poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate), and mixtures thereof.
  • the hot melt adhesive comprises or consists of one or more biodegradable polymers of non-GMO (genetically modified organism) origin.
  • the hot melt adhesive may comprise at least 50% w/w of one or more biodegradable polymers, such as at least 55% w/w, e.g., at least 40% w/w, such as at least 65% w/w, e.g., at least 70% w/w, such as at least 75% w/w, e.g., at least 80% w/w, such as at least 85% w/w, e.g., at least 90% w/w, such as at least 95% w/w, e.g., at least 99% w/w.
  • Other components may be inorganic fillers or biodegradable organic fillers.
  • hot melt adhesive comprises a reactive filler component, such as an aluminium compound, a magnesium compound, a calcium compound, a barium compound or a mixture thereof.
  • a reactive filler component such as an aluminium compound, a magnesium compound, a calcium compound, a barium compound or a mixture thereof.
  • the reactive filler may be, for example, in the form of oxides, hydroxides, silicates, etc., or a mixture thereof.
  • Some exemplary compounds include, for example, aluminum oxide (AI 2 O 3 ), aluminum hydroxide (AI(OH) 3 ), magnesium oxide (MgO), magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH) 2 ), calcium oxide (CaO), calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH) 2 ), barium oxide (BaO), barium hydroxide (Ba(OH) 2 ), aluminometasilicates, fluoroaluminosilicates and mixtures thereof.
  • Aluminium compounds are particularly preferred, especially aluminium compounds that react with acidic functional groups. Aluminium oxide, aluminium hydroxide, aluminium silicate, aluminium metasilicate and mixtures thereof are of particular note.
  • the reactive filler may be present in the hot-melt adhesive composition in any suitable amount. Of particular note is an amount of about 5% to about 50% by weight, or, of about 10% to about 45% by weight, or, of about 15% to about 40% by weight, based on the weight of the hot-melt adhesive composition.
  • Another aspect relates to a netting or mesh sheet material supplied on a reel, the sheet material being of the type used for producing continuous lengths of propagation plugs; wherein the netting or mesh sheet material has a mesh size within the range of 0.1 to 1.5 mm; and wherein the netting or mesh sheet material comprises a hot melt adhesive comprising one or more biodegradable polymers; wherein the hot melt adhesive is supplied to at least a part of a face of the composite sheet material.
  • producing biodegradable sheet netting or mesh with mesh sizes between 0.1 to 1.5 mm may e.g., involve an extrusion process that utilizes a blend of biodegradable polymers, such as polylactic acid (PLA) combined with other materials like polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), polybutylene succinate (PBS), or polycaprolactone (PCL). These materials are selected to enhance the biodegradation rate and the environmental compatibility of the final product.
  • PLA polylactic acid
  • PBS polybutylene succinate
  • PCL polycaprolactone
  • PLA Poly(lactic acid)
  • PLA stands out as a promising biodegradable polymer due to its renewable origin from corn starch or sugarcane, and mechanical properties resembling those of conventional plastics.
  • PLA slow degradation rate in certain environments, such as soil, necessitates enhancement strategies to expedite its breakdown.
  • PLA polyhydroxyalkanoates
  • PBS polybutylene succinate
  • PCL polycaprolactone
  • PBS possesses favourable mechanical properties and is biodegradable under various environmental conditions, including soil. Blending PLA with PBS not only accelerates degradation but also offers improved flexibility, expanding the applicability of the resulting materials.
  • PCL another commonly used biodegradable polymer, complements PLA by enhancing its biodegradation rate.
  • PCL exhibits slow degradation kinetics on its own but can synergistically interact with PLA to expedite degradation.
  • PLA By blending PLA with PCL, the resulting material benefits from PCL’s biodegradability while retaining PLA’s strength and stiffness.
  • biodegradable polymer blends in expediting degradation relies on careful selection and optimization of blend compositions. Balancing the properties of individual polymers to achieve desired mechanical strength, degradation kinetics, and environmental compatibility is crucial. Additionally, factors such as polymer compatibility, phase morphology, and processing techniques play significant roles in determining the performance of these blends.
  • biodegradable polymer blends based on PLA offer a promising solution to mitigate plastic pollution by accelerating degradation in soil and other environments.
  • PHA polyhydroxyadiene
  • PBS polyhydroxyadiene
  • PCL poly(ethylene glycol)
  • the manufacturing process begins with the preparation of these biodegradable polymers, which are typically supplied in pellet form. These pellets might include a mix of PLA and another biodegradable polymer, such as PHA, to optimize the netting’s mechanical properties and degradation rate.
  • the mix can be tailored with additives that promote stability, UV resistance, or facilitate the biodegradation process, depending on the intended application of plant pot.
  • the netting or mesh undergoes a cooling process, typically in a controlled air or water bath, to solidify the netting or mesh while preserving its intricate structure. This stage is critical to ensure that the net retains its dimensional stability and mesh uniformity.
  • the netting or mesh After cooling, the netting or mesh might be subjected to a stretching process. This orientation step is crucial for aligning the polymer chains, thereby enhancing the bending stiffness and mechanical integrity of the biodegradable netting or mesh. This makes the netting more robust and suitable for practical applications while maintaining its biodegradability.
  • the final product is then either wound onto spools or cut into sheets.
  • the mesh or netting material plays a crucial role in facilitating air pruning.
  • This design allows root tips to penetrate the mesh openings and become exposed to air. Upon exposure, the root tips desiccate, halting their elongation. This process stimulates the plant to develop lateral roots, resulting in a denser and more fibrous root system. Such root systems enhance nutrient uptake and improve transplant success rates. Studies have shown that air-pruning containers produce trees with significantly more root tips and greater total root length compared to traditional methods.
  • bonding methods are critical for ensuring structural integrity. Two primary methods are employed: thermal bonding and hot-melt adhesive application.
  • Thermal Bonding This method involves applying heat to fuse the edges of the thermoplastic mesh material. It is efficient and eliminates the need for additional materials. However, it requires precise temperature control to prevent degradation of biodegradable polymers like PLA.
  • Hot-Melt Adhesive This technique uses biodegradable adhesives, such as those based on polylactic acid (PLA), which are applied in a molten state and solidify upon cooling.
  • Hot-melt adhesives offer advantages in scenarios where thermal bonding is unsuitable, such as with thicker or multi-layered meshes. They provide strong bonds at lower processing temperatures, reducing the risk of polymer degradation.
  • degradation time refers to the period required for the netting or mesh material to lose its structural integrity under specific environmental conditions. In this context, degradation encompasses both physical disintegration and microbial assimilation of the material.
  • Soil Type Loamy soil with active microbial communities.
  • Temperature Maintained at approximately 25°C to simulate typical outdoor conditions.
  • Moisture Soil moisture content kept at 60% of field capacity. Under these conditions, materials like PLA and PBS exhibit varying degradation rates. For instance, PLA may take several months to degrade, while PHA-based materials degrade more rapidly.
  • the propagation plugs and rods produced using the described netting or mesh materials are designed to be compatible with standard horticultural trays and planting systems.
  • the dimensions of the plugs may align with common tray sizes, such as 72-cell or 128-cell trays, facilitating seamless integration into existing workflows.
  • Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a system performing the method in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.
  • an amount of sphagnum or a corresponding substrate material 2 supplied on a conveyor belt 4 forwardly conveying towards the end of a suction funnel 6.
  • the suction funnel 6 projects into a first part 8 of a conveyor pipe. It is not decisive how the sphagnum is supplied to the first part 8 of the conveyor pipe, as long as it is a continuous delivery.
  • the first part 8 of the conveyor pipe extends into a folding zone 12, in which the netting or mesh sheet material 14 according to the present invention is supplied from a storage reel 16 and successively wrapped about the first part 8 of the conveyor pipe and continues into a second part 20 of the conveyor pipe.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material 14 continues into the second part 20 of the conveyor pipe through a narrow annular slot 18 (holding means 26 is arranged for fixing of the pipe parts in this area) to form an inner lining hose in the second part 20 of the conveyor pipe.
  • the netting or mesh sheet material 14 is a thermoplastic material.
  • the thermoplastic material is activated in a heating station 24, whereby the netting or mesh sheet material 14 is stabilized in its hose shape for further advancing inside the second part 20 of the conveyor pipe.
  • the length of growth medium is thereafter cut into pieces of suitable size (length relative to the diameter), corresponding to the desired size of a propagation pot or rod.
  • Standard T494 om-96 (equivalent to ISO 1924-2:2008) with the following modifications: 50 mm strips were used, the initial jaw distance was 127 mm, and the break force value was recorded as the maximum of the recorded force curve instead of 25 mm strip and reported in Newtons per meter (N/m).
  • the dry tensile strength is measured in Machine Direction (MD). The arithmetic average of machine direction and cross direction is also given.
  • the PBS-based netting demonstrated a slow degradation rate and relatively stable tensile strength through 217 days of soil exposure. Although some samples showed partial disintegration after 350 days, the material generally retained integrity up to that point.
  • the PHBV-based netting showed lower initial and ongoing tensile strength but retained complete structural integrity through 350 days. This material is highly biodegradable and environmentally compatible, yet less mechanically durable in the short term compared to PBS.
  • the 70/30 PBS/PHBV blend exhibited accelerated degradation behavior. By day 70, all samples had degraded to such an extent that tensile testing could no longer be conducted. This blend offers rapid breakdown in soil environments, making it especially useful in applications where short-term structural integrity followed by quick biodegradation is preferred.

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  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Environmental Sciences (AREA)
  • Biological Depolymerization Polymers (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne la production de bouchons de propagation, principalement des blocs de milieu de croissance pour la croissance de boutures et de plants de semences, et du type constitué d'un bloc cylindrique comportant une enveloppe en matériau en feuille et un remplissage associé de sphaigne ou d'un matériau de substrat correspondant. Le matériau en feuille est ici un filet ou un maillage, de préférence biodégradable, présentant une taille de maille dans la plage de 0,1 à 1,5 mm.
PCT/EP2025/064381 2024-05-27 2025-05-23 Procédé de production de longueurs continues de bouchons de propagation ou de tiges, et bouchons de propagation ou tiges produits par ledit procédé Pending WO2025247779A1 (fr)

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DKPA202430269A DK202430269A1 (en) 2024-05-27 2024-05-27 A method for producing continuous lengths of propagation plugs or rods, and propagation plugs or rods produced by such method

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