Enhanced Performance of Cow Dung Paper Mulch Films Through Cationic Starch Modification for Sustainable Agriculture

ABSTRACT The extensive utilization of plastic mulch and the lack of adequate recycling treatment have caused severe environmental pollution. Plant fiber agricultural mulch film has received much attention in academic research, and the exploration of cow dung fibers as a potential source for mulch film preparation has been rarely discussed. Herein, cow dung fibers were used to create biodegradable paper mulch films. Cationic starch powder was applied to modify the fibers through two methods: immersion and brushing. The starch was dissolved in warm water at concentrations of 1, 2, and 3 wt%, and then heated to 90°C, before application. This treatment resulted in a uniformly coated, biodegradable cow dung paper mulch film. The cationic starch was observed to fill the gaps between fibers, leading to a uniform coating on their surfaces. The optimal tensile strength of the mulch film, which was 3.576 MPa, was achieved with a 2 wt% cationic starch content, suggesting that the starch enhances the bond between fibers and improves the mulch film's overall performance.