Biodegradable castor oil based polyurethane composite for controlled release of biostimulant and sustainable agricultural applications
摘要
Addressing environmental issues related to nutrient leaching and the build up of non-biodegradable materials, this research focused on creating a biodegradable polyurethane derived from castor oil and starch composites for the regulated release of humic acid as a biostimulant. The synthesized composites demonstrated up to 45% enhancement in tensile strength, coupled with improved thermal stability, reflecting superior structural integrity. Elevating starch levels enhanced water uptake, thereby facilitating better moisture retention in the soil. The release rate of humic acid diminished as the starch content increased, validating the diffusion-controlled behaviour and extended availability of humic acid. Investigation on biodegradation demonstrated the environmental suitability of the prepared PU biocomposite, highlighting a notable mass loss in cow dung when compared to unmodified PU. Pot experiments revealed a remarkable enhancement in growth, with plant height increasing by 59% and leaf width by 45% compared to the control group. The developed PU composites demonstrate significant potential as biodegradable materials for the controlled release of bio-stimulants, paving the way for sustainable applications.