A Lignin-Based Biodegradable Mulch Film with Zn 2+ Coordination Networks for Sustainable Agriculture

作者：Jiaqian Cui, Junwei Tang, Xijiao Bian, Jungang Jiang, Yifan Zhang, Lei Wang · 发表于：Biomacromolecules · 年份：2025 · DOI：10.1021/acs.biomac.5c00607 · 被引用次数：12 · 研究领域：Lignin and Wood Chemistry、Postharvest Quality and Shelf Life Management、Plant Physiology and Cultivation Studies

The environmental persistence of conventional plastic mulch films imposes substantial ecological burdens. With rising demands for sustainable agriculture, biodegradable alternatives attract growing interest. However, existing biobased films often face trade-offs between mechanical robustness, environmental adaptability, and functional versatility. In this study, we fabricated a mechanically enhanced multifunctional lignin-based composite mulch by blending modified sulfate lignin (SKL), poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), nanocellulose (CNF), and ZnCl 2 . The work elucidated the synergistic interfacial mechanism underlying its superior properties. Zn 2+ coordination with lignin sulfonic acid groups and SKL/PVA/CNF hydrogen bonding form a hierarchical network. This yields exceptional toughness (40.57 MJ/m 3 ), ∼99% UV-blocking, hydrophobicity, moisture barrier, and thermal stability. The film degraded 70% in 40 days─far exceeding conventional mulch (CM). Its inherent biodegradability offers significant potential to replace agricultural plastics, advancing sustainable materials.