Superhydrophobic degradable cellulose-based film with radiation insulation performance for agricultural application.

The development of degradable alternative-plastic agricultural film is immediate to reduce the residual plastic pollution from the source. Degradable cellulosic films show tremendous potential for sustainable agricultural development in a low-carbon economy. However, radiative heat dissipation and poor water resistance are two main problems that hinder the practical application of cellulosic agricultural films. Herein, a superhydrophobic transparent cellulosic film with high radiation insulation was developed by combining copper nanowires (CuNWs) with high reflection of mid-far infrared radiation and hydrophobic functionalization strategy. The composite film (Cu/LC film) was constructed by facile blending and solvent volatilization self-assembly of lignocellulosic nanofibers (LCNFs) and CuNWs, followed by chemical vapor modification to obtain a superhydrophobic surface. The Cu/LC film exhibited acceptable mechanical strength and flexibility due to the excellent compatibility of LCNFs and CuNWs. The superhydrophobic interface endowed the composite film with high water resistance. More importantly, the Cu/LC film showed higher mid-far infrared reflectivity and radiation insulation effect than pure LC film. Based on the effect of CuNWs, the Cu/LC film showed good wide antimicrobial properties. Therefore, the superhydrophobic Cu/LC film with increased radiation insulation ability, some light transmittance, flexibility, and antimicrobial properties provided a new way for developing degradable agricultural film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]