Degradable extruded netting made from polymer blend compositions

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a degradable extruded netting comprising a plurality of interconnected strands, at least some of the strands being made of a polymer blend, the polymer blend comprising a polylactic acid polymer composition, polybutylene succinate, and a degradation additive, the degradation additive comprising a degradation agent in a carrier resin. The present disclosure also relates to a turfgrass sod and a method for preparing the turfgrass sod using the degradable extruded netting.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 860,931, filed June 13, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. background The field of the disclosure relates to extruded plastic netting, and more particularly to degradable extruded netting including a plurality of interconnected strands for use with turfgrass sods. [Background technology]

[0002] In the conventional method of growing turfgrass sod, the seeds of the turfgrass are planted in soil. The turfgrass crop is grown until the roots are sufficiently interwoven so that the sod will compact as a coherent carpet-like mat when cut, after which the sod can be peeled or rolled away from the underlying soil. Often, the soil layer includes a synthetic structure, such as a net, to help keep the sod intact and coherent after harvest. Extruded plastic netting is utilized in many commercial applications, such as erosion control applications, climbing plant support netting, barrier fences, tree guards, turfgrass sod netting, etc. Currently, a typical extrusion process for manufacturing plastic netting involves extruding individual plastic strands in an interconnecting network to form a net-like structure. Conventional plastic netting and methods for its manufacture are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,700,521; 3,767,353; 3,723,218; 4,123,491; 4,152,479, and 4,190,692, the complete disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

[0003] Existing plastic netting is typically manufactured from a variety of base resins that are non-corrosive, abrasion resistant, chemical resistant and / or tough, such as metal, polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, polyester, etc. Colorants and additives can be introduced during the extrusion process to provide distinct colors or properties, such as stabilization against degradation by ultraviolet light. One drawback of existing plastic nets is that the materials used to make these nets are generally not degradable or renewable, therefore they consume more landfill space and cause more harm to the environment than desired. It would therefore be desirable to provide an improved extruded netting having acceptable mechanical strength that is made from easily processable degradable materials derived from renewable resources. Summary of the Invention

[0004] overview The following presents a brief summary of the claimed subject matter in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the claimed subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview of the claimed subject matter. It is not intended to identify key or critical elements of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to delineate the scope of the claimed subject matter. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the claimed subject matter in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0005] The present disclosure relates to a degradable extruded netting comprising a plurality of interconnected strands. At least some of the strands of the netting are made of a polymer blend comprising a polylactic acid composition and a polybutylene succinate composition. In a particular embodiment, the polymer blend further comprises a degradation additive. At least some of the strands of the netting are made of a polymer blend comprising a polylactic acid composition, a polybutyrate composition, a polylactic acid-polybutyrate compatibilizer composition, and a degradation additive. The degradation additive may comprise a degradation agent in a carrier resin.

[0006] In a particular embodiment, the polymer blend comprises a polylactic acid composition in an amount ranging from about 40% to about 60% by weight, and polybutylene succinate (PBS) in an amount ranging from about 40% to about 60% by weight. The polymer blend further comprises a degradation additive in an amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 5% by weight. The polylactic acid composition may comprise one or more polymers derived at least in part from lactide or lactic acid, collectively referred to herein as polylactide or PLA. In certain embodiments, the polylactic acid composition comprises one or more polylactic acid polymers derived from plant starch, e.g., linear aliphatic thermoplastic polyesters derived from renewable resources such as corn. The PBS composition can include one or more polymers, including aliphatic polyesters produced by polycondensation of succinic acid or any of its derivatives with 1,4-butanediol. The degradation additive preferably comprises a decomposition agent in a carrier resin. In one or more embodiments, the carrier resin comprises about 90% to about 99% by weight of the degradation additive, with the remainder being the decomposition agent. In embodiments, the carrier resin is biodegradable, transparent, and derived from renewable resources. The degradation additive may include any suitable degradation additive that causes degradation of the plastic material primarily upon exposure to heat, hi certain embodiments, the degradation additive includes iron stearate, manganese stearate, metal carboxylates, or any combination thereof.

[0007] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a polymer blend for preparing a degradable extruded netting includes a polylactic acid (PLA) composition in an amount ranging from about 55% to about 60% by weight, a polybutyrate composition in an amount ranging from about 35% to about 40% by weight, a compatibilizer composition in an amount ranging from about 0.5% to 3% by weight, and a degradation additive in an amount ranging from about 2% to about 7% by weight. The polybutyrate composition may include one or more polybutyrate adipate terephthalate (PBAT) polymers. The compatibilizer composition may include any composition that helps ensure the achievement of a substantially homogenous mixture of PLA and PBAT. In certain embodiments, the PLA-PBAT compatibilizer composition includes a mixture of a PLA carrier resin and a compatibilizer, such as polypropylene glycol diglycidyl ether, epoxidized cottonseed oil (ECSO), or maleinized cottonseed oil (MCSO). The degradation additive may include any suitable degradation additive that causes degradation of the plastic material primarily upon exposure to heat, hi certain embodiments, the degradation additive includes iron stearate, manganese stearate, metal carboxylates, or any combination thereof.

[0008] In another aspect of the present invention, the present disclosure relates to a turfgrass sod comprising turfgrass grown in soil and a degradable extruded netting in the soil. The netting comprises a plurality of interconnected strands, at least a portion of the strands being made of a polymer blend comprising a polylactic acid composition in an amount ranging from about 40% to about 60% by weight, and a polybutylene succinate composition in an amount ranging from about 40% to about 60% by weight. The polymer blend may further comprise a degradable additive in an amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 5% by weight.

[0009] In yet another aspect of the invention, the disclosure relates to a method for growing sod, the method comprising the steps of: providing a netting material to soil, the netting material comprising a plurality of interconnected strands, at least a portion of the strands being made from a polymer blend comprising a polylactic acid composition in an amount ranging from about 40% to about 60% by weight, a polybutylene succinate composition in an amount ranging from about 40% to about 60% by weight, and a degradation additive in an amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 5% by weight; and cultivating a turfgrass crop in the soil. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the present disclosure. Additional features of the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows or may be learned by the practice of the present disclosure. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a net according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 1 depicts QUV test data collected from extruded films made with the compositions of Examples 1-5 of the present disclosure and comparative compositions, showing the percentage of strength loss over time in the machine direction. [Diagram 3] 1 depicts QUV with condensation test data collected from extruded films made with compositions of Examples 1-5 of the present disclosure and comparative compositions, showing the percentage of machine direction strength loss over time. [Figure 4] 1 depicts QUV test data collected from extruded netting made with the compositions of Example 3 and Examples 5-7 of the present disclosure, as well as comparative compositions, showing the percentage of longitudinal strength loss over time. [Diagram 5] 1 depicts modulus data for blends made with compositions of the present disclosure and the compositions of Examples 7-10. [Figure 6] 1 depicts tensile strength data for blends made with compositions of the present disclosure and the compositions of Examples 7-10. [Figure 7] 1 depicts QUV test data collected from extruded netting made with the compositions of Examples 8 and 10-12 of the present disclosure, as well as comparative compositions, showing the percentage of strength remaining over time. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Detailed Description This description and the accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments and should not be construed as limiting, and the claims, including equivalents, define the scope of the present disclosure. Various mechanical, compositional, structural, and operational changes may be made without departing from the scope of this description and the claims, including equivalents. In some cases, well-known structures and techniques have not been shown or described in detail so as not to obscure the present disclosure. Like numbers in two or more figures represent the same or similar elements. Furthermore, elements and their related aspects described in detail with reference to an embodiment may in fact be included in other embodiments wherever not specifically shown or described. For example, if an element is described in detail with reference to an embodiment and not described with reference to a second embodiment, the element may still be claimed to be included in the second embodiment. Furthermore, the description herein is for illustrative purposes only and does not necessarily reflect the actual shape, size, or dimensions of the system or illustrated components.

[0012] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the," as well as any singular use of any word, are recognized to include plural referents unless the use is clearly and unambiguously limited to one referent. As used herein, the term "include" and grammatical variations thereof are intended to be open-ended, such that the recitation of items in a list does not exclude other similar items that may be substituted for or added to the listed items. Although the disclosure below presents degradable extruded netting for use in connection with sod, it should be understood that the degradable extruded netting is readily adaptable to a variety of other applications, such as packaging netting, e.g., onion and turkey bags; agricultural netting, e.g., turf netting, lawn wrap, hay bales, and the like; erosion control applications; and netting for industrial, filtration, and furniture applications. Additionally, the degradable extruded netting can also be adapted for use in disposable diapers, incontinence briefs, training pants, bandages, dressings, diaper holders and liners, as well as feminine hygiene products, medical gowns, medical drapes, mattress pads, blankets, sheets, garments, composite fabrics for consumer wipes, and other similar products, such as building and construction composites.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, the net 10 includes strands 12 extending in one direction and strands 14 extending in a generally crosswise or transverse direction. Strands 12 and 14 are elongate members that cross and transverse during extrusion to form a net-like structure. Strands 12 and 14 may also be formed of extruded strands that are interwoven rather than crossed during extrusion. In certain embodiments, strands 12 and 14 are made of the same material. In alternative embodiments, strands 12 are made of a different material than strands 14. For example, net 10 may include 10-90 wt.% of strand 12 material and 10-90 wt.% of strand 14 material. In other embodiments, net 10 may include 45-55 wt.% of strand 12 material and 45-55 wt.% of strand 14 material. In embodiments in which strands 12 and 14 are made of the same material, the material from which strands 12 and 14 are made is the degradable composition of the present disclosure. When a material other than the degradable composition is used to manufacture one of the sets of strands 12 or 14, the material may include a non-degradable composition. Thus, the degradable extruded netting may be made entirely from a degradable composition or from a combination of degradable and non-degradable materials. In certain embodiments, the degradable materials used to prepare the extruded netting may include a combination of one or more polylactic acid (PLA) polymer compositions, one or more polybutylene succinate (PBS) polymer compositions, and a degradation additive. In other embodiments, the degradable materials used to prepare the extruded netting may include a combination of one or more polylactic acid (PLA) polymer compositions, one or more polybutyrate adipate terephthalate (PBAT) polymer compositions, a PLA-PBAT compatibilizer, and a degradation additive.

[0014] PLA composition Generally, polylactic acid compositions may comprise, at least in part, one or more polymers derived from lactide or lactic acid, collectively referred to herein as polylactide or PLA. In general, polymer nomenclature often refers to polymers based on the monomers from which they are made, and in other cases characterizes them based on the smallest repeating unit found in the polymer. For example, the smallest repeating unit in polylactide is lactic acid (actually the residue of lactic acid). However, typically, commercial polylactide will be produced by polymerization of lactide monomers, not lactic acid. Of course, lactide monomers are dimers of lactic acid. As used herein, the terms "polylactic acid", "polylactide", and "PLA" are intended to include within their scope both lactic acid-based polymers and polylactide-based polymers, and these terms are used interchangeably. That is, the terms "polylactic acid", "polylactide", and "PLA" are not intended to be limiting with respect to the manner in which the polymers are formed. The terms "polylactide-based" polymer or "polylactic acid-based" polymer are meant to refer to polymers of polylactic acid or polylactide, as well as copolymers of lactic acid or lactide, where the resulting polymers contain at least 50% by weight of lactic acid residue repeat units or lactide residue repeat units. In this context, the term "lactic acid residue repeat units" is meant to refer to the following units:

[0015] [ka]

[0016] In view of the above definitions, it will be apparent that one can refer to both polymers containing lactic acid residues and polymers containing lactide residues. As used herein, the term "lactide residue repeat unit" is meant to refer to the following repeat unit:

[0017] [ka]

[0018] It should be understood that the lactide residue repeating unit can be derived from L-lactide, D-lactide, and meso-lactide: L-lactide is composed of two S-lactic acid residues; D-lactide is composed of two R-lactic acid residues; and meso-lactide is composed of both S- and R-lactic acid residues. In embodiments, PLA may be a linear aliphatic thermoplastic polyester derived from renewable resources such as corn, and is compostable in many circumstances. In recent years, PLA has been increasingly used in textile applications such as netting, as it provides a raw material that is sustainable and derived from renewable resources. Plant-based PLA derived from corn is well known. Traditionally, the corn is soaked in a mixture to loosen the molecular bonds, then the mixture is ground and centrifuged to separate the corn oil from the starch. Hydrolysis is then used to extract dextrose from the starch. Finally, fermentation leads to the dextrose forming lactic acid. After conversion of lactic acid to lactide by electrodialysis, long lactide chains are formed by polymerization, resulting in a completely plant-based PLA. In embodiments, the PLA composition comprises a mixture of PLA polymers, at least some of which are derived from sustainable and renewable resources, such as from plant starch. In an embodiment, the PLA composition comprises at least 50% by weight of a PLA polymer having a nominal average molecular weight of about 200,000 Daltons.

[0019] PBS composition In general, the PBS composition may include one or more polymers, including aliphatic polyesters produced by polycondensation of succinic acid or any of its derivatives with 1,4-butanediol. The biodegradable polymers naturally decompose into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass. In an embodiment, the PBS used can be synthesized by melt condensation polymerization followed by chain extension with diisocyanates. Bio-based succinic acid is suitable for producing the biodegradable polymers, while polyalkylene succinates can be synthesized from petrochemical precursors. In an embodiment, the PBS composition may be commercially available FZ91 / FD92 available from PTT MCC Biochem Co., Ltd. under the trade name BioPBS®.

[0020] PBAT composition In general, the PBAT composition may comprise one or more polymers including diol-dicarboxylic acid condensation type polyesters having aliphatic dicarboxylic acids, aromatic dicarboxylic acids and aliphatic diols as their constituents. In an embodiment, the PBAT composition may comprise any biodegradable statistical aliphatic-aromatic copolyester. In an embodiment, the PBAT composition comprises at least one aliphatic-aromatic copolyester based on the monomers 1,4-butanediol, adipic acid and terephthalic acid in the polymer chain. The biodegradable polymers ultimately decompose into carbon dioxide, water and biomass when metabolized under standard conditions in soil or compost. In an embodiment, the PBAT composition may be the commercially available F Blend C1200 sold under the trade name ecoflex® available from BASF SE. In an embodiment, the PBAT composition comprises at least 50% by weight of a PBAT polymer. When the PBAT comprises a polymer having a lower molecular weight than the polymer in the PLA composition, the PBAT composition, when mixed with the PLA composition, can increase the flexibility of the PLA.

[0021] PLA-PBAT compatibilizer composition In general, the PLA-PBAT compatibilizer composition is any composition that helps ensure the achievement of a substantially homogenous mixture of PLA and PBAT. In embodiments, the PLA-PBAT compatibilizer composition includes a mixture of a PLA carrier resin and a compatibilizer. In embodiments, the PLA carrier resin comprises about 90% to about 99% by weight of the PLA-PBAT compatibilizer composition, with the remainder being the compatibilizer. The PLA carrier resin may be any extrusion grade thermoplastic resin that facilitates processing. In embodiments, the PLA carrier resin is transparent and derived from renewable resources. In embodiments, the PLA carrier resin may be Biopolymer 2003D, sold under the trade name Ingeo™, available from NatureWorks, and may comprise 95% by weight of the PLA-PBAT compatibilizer composition. In embodiments, the compatibilizer may be polypropylene glycol diglycidyl ether (EJ400) or an epoxy-based compound, such as epoxidized cottonseed oil (ECSO) or maleated cottonseed oil (MCSO).Other suitable compatibilizers that may be used in the PLA-PBAT compatibilizer composition include isocyanate compounds, including, but not limited to, 4,4'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate, dicyclohexylmethane diisocyanate, 3,3'-dimethyl-4,4'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate, hydrogenated 4,4'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate, 3,3'-tolidine-4,4'-diisocyanate, toluene diisocyanate, methylcyclohexane diisocyanate, hexamethylene diisocyanate, isophorone diisocyanate, toluene diisocyanate, secondary methylphenylene diisocyanate, hydrogenated secondary toluylene bismaleimide diisocyanate, tetramethylxylylene diisocyanate, tetramethylxylylene diisocyanate, methylene diphenyl diisocyanate, 4,4'-diisopropanol, tetramethylxylylene diisocyanate, methylene diphenyl diisocyanate, tetramethylxylylene ... The compatibilizer may be selected from the group consisting of propyl diphenyl diisocyanate, polymethylene polyphenyl diisocyanate, phenylene diisocyanate, 1,8-4-isocyanatomethyloctane diisocyanate, 1,5-naphthalene diisocyanate, dianisidine diisocyanate, diphenyl ether diisocyanate, lysine methyl ester diisocyanate, lysine ester triisocyanate, triphenylmethane triisocyanate, triisocyanatophenyl phosphorothioate, 1,6,11-undecane triisocyanate, bicycloheptane triisocyanate, trimethylhexamethylene triisocyanate, polymethylene polyphenyl isocyanate, or combinations thereof. In embodiments, the compatibilizer may be Joncryl ADR sold by BASF, Lotader AX8900 sold by Arkema, or Biomax Strong 120 sold by DuPont.

[0022] Decomposition Additives In certain embodiments, the decomposition additive comprises a decomposer in a carrier resin. In one or more preferred embodiments, the carrier resin comprises about 90% to about 99% by weight of the decomposition additive, with the remainder being the decomposer. In embodiments, the carrier resin is biodegradable, transparent, and derived from renewable resources. In embodiments, the carrier resin may be Biopolymer 2003D, available from NatureWorks under the trade name Ingeo™, and may comprise 95% of the decomposition additive. In embodiments, the decomposer comprises iron stearate, although any suitable decomposer may be used. Suitable decomposer additives are additives that cause the decomposition of plastic materials primarily upon exposure to heat. While metal carboxylates are relatively well-known decomposition additives, examples of other decomposition additives include, but are not limited to, self-oxidizing unsaturated organic compounds such as ethers, acetals, ketals, amines, aldehydes, natural oils, unsaturated fatty acids, and other compounds that aid in the generation of free radicals and peroxides involved in oxidation reactions.

[0023] Other Additives In embodiments, the composition used to make the extruded netting may include further conventional additives. In an embodiment, a suitable photodegradable additive may be used. A suitable photodegradable additive is an additive that causes the degradation of the plastic material mainly upon exposure to light. Examples of photodegradable additives include, but are not limited to, photosensitive polymers such as aromatic ketones, aromatic amines, peroxides, quinones, and azo compounds. In an embodiment, a colorant may be included. Colorants can reduce the intensity of UV radiation by reflecting, diffusing, absorbing, or refracting the UV radiation, and thus can affect the degradation rate. One suitable colorant is the green colorant 29025 GN PE Masterbatch available from PolyOne Corporation of Assesse, Belgium, where the green colorant in the carrier imparts a green color to the resulting extruded netting. In embodiments, a stabilizer is included. The stabilizer can help prevent excessive degradation of the net from exposure to UV light. In at least certain embodiments, the stabilizer includes a hindered amine compound, such as an oligomeric hindered amine light stabilizer or a hindered amine light stabilizer (HALS).

[0024] Exemplary Compositions In an embodiment, the polymer composition blend used to produce the degradable extruded netting may include a PLA composition in an amount ranging from about 40% to about 60% by weight and a PBS composition in an amount ranging from about 40% to about 60% by weight. In an embodiment, the polymer composition blend used to produce the degradable extruded netting may further include a degradable additive in an amount ranging from about 0.1% to 5% by weight. In a preferred embodiment, the polymer blend may include a PLA composition in an amount ranging from about 48% to about 52% by weight and a PBS composition in an amount ranging from about 48% to about 52% by weight. In another embodiment, the polymer blend composition for preparing a degradable extruded netting comprises a polylactic acid (PLA) composition in an amount ranging from about 55% to about 60% by weight, a polybutyrate composition in an amount ranging from about 35% to about 40% by weight, a compatibilizer composition in an amount ranging from about 0.5% to 3% by weight, and a degradation additive in an amount ranging from about 2% to about 7% by weight. In an alternative embodiment, the polymer blend composition comprises a polylactic acid (PLA) composition in an amount ranging from about 52% to about 58% by weight, a polybutyrate composition in an amount ranging from about 38% by weight, a compatibilizer composition in an amount ranging from about 2% by weight, and a degradation additive in an amount ranging from about 2% to about 8% by weight.

[0025] Preparation of the extrudable composition The extrudable composition can be prepared by any conventional process for forming a polymer composition. These processes include, but are not limited to, compounding. In general, suitable methods for producing polymer blend compositions include compounding as a separate operation using a twin screw extruder, or in-line compounding using a single screw extruder equipped with a screw that is characterized by good discrete and dispersive mixing properties.

[0026] Non-degradable fiber composition As mentioned above, in embodiments, some of the strands 12, 14 may be made of a non-degradable fiber composition. In embodiments, the non-degradable fiber composition may include non-elastomeric materials such as nylon, polyester, polylactic acid, polypropylene, polyethylene including HDPE and copolymers of said resins. In embodiments, the non-degradable fibers are made of polyolefins. In embodiments, the non-degradable fibers are made of polypropylene.

[0027] Net preparation The degradable extruded netting can be prepared by any suitable extrusion process. In general, a suitable method for making the extruded netting includes extruding the polymer blend composition through a die with reciprocating or rotating parts to form a netting structure. This creates transverse strands that cross the continuously flowing longitudinal strands. Of course, it should be understood that the degradable polymer blend composition can be used to form both the transverse strands and the longitudinal strands, or one or some of these strands, and when forming one or some of the strands, another material, such as a different biodegradable material or a non-degradable material, can be used to form the other or some of the strands. After extrusion, the netting is then typically stretched in the longitudinal direction using a differential between two sets of nip rolls. After this, the material is typically stretched in the transverse direction using any suitable method, such as the method described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,152,479, which is incorporated herein by reference, using a tenter frame. It should be understood that the above method is only one of many suitable methods that can be used to make the extruded netting of the present invention. EXAMPLES

[0028] The subject matter of the present disclosure is further illustrated by the following non-limiting examples. Example 1 The degradable extruded film of the present disclosure is produced using a mixture of 57% by weight Biopolymer 2003D, sold under the trade name Ingeo™, available from NatureWorks, 38% by weight F Blend C1200, sold under the trade name ecoflex®, available from BASF SE, 2% by weight TECHMER PLAM111474 compatibilizer, and 3% by weight degradation additive, the degradation additive comprising 5% iron stearate and 95% PLA carrier resin. The film is produced by known extrusion methods, extruding the composition through a desired die at a temperature of about 355 to about 380 degrees Fahrenheit (about 179 to about 193 degrees Celsius). After extrusion, the film is passed through nip rollers and finally rolled into a stack.

[0029] Example 2 A degradable extruded film of the present disclosure is produced using a mixture of 55% by weight Biopolymer 2003D as the PLA composition, 38% by weight F Blend C1200 as the PBAT composition, 2% by weight TECHMER PLAM111474 compatibilizer, and 5% by weight degradation additive, the degradation additive including 5% iron stearate and 95% PLA carrier resin. The same method as in Example 1 was used to extrude a film of the composition of Example 2.

[0030] Example 3 A degradable extruded film of the present disclosure is produced using a mixture containing 60% by weight Biopolymer 2003D as the PLA composition, 38% by weight F Blend C1200 as the PBAT composition, 2% by weight TECHMER PLAM111474 compatibilizer, and no degradation additive. The same method as in Example 1 was used to extrude a film of the composition of Example 3.

[0031] Example 4 A mixture containing 55% by weight Biopolymer 2003D as the PLA composition, 38% by weight F Blend C1200 as the PBAT composition, 2% by weight TECHMER PLAM111474 compatibilizer, 2.5% by weight degradation additive with iron stearate, and 2.5% by weight degradation additive with manganese stearate is used to manufacture a degradable extruded film of the present disclosure. The degradation additive includes 2.5% iron stearate, 2.5% manganese stearate, and 95% PLA carrier resin. The same method as in Example 1 was used to extrude a film of the composition of Example 4.

[0032] Example 5 The composition of polypropylene is used to produce a degradable extruded film of the present disclosure. No degradable additive is used. The same method as in Example 1 is used to extrude a film of the composition of Example 5.

[0033] Example 6 The degradable extruded netting of the present disclosure is produced using a mixture of 57% by weight Biopolymer 2003D sold under the trade name Ingeo™ available from NatureWorks as the PLA composition, 38% by weight F Blend C1200 sold under the trade name ECOFLEX® available from BASF SE as the PBAT composition, 2% by weight TECHMER PLAM111474 compatibilizer, and 3% by weight degradation additive, the degradation additive including 5% stearic acid and 95% PLA carrier resin. The netting was produced by extruding the composition through a die having reciprocating or rotating parts to form a netting structure. The extruded netting was then stretched in the machine and cross directions at a temperature of 100°F to 250°F (38°C to 121°C).

[0034] Example 7 The degradable extruded net of the present disclosure is manufactured using a mixture of 55% by weight Biopolymer 2003D as PLA composition, 38% by weight F Blend C1200 as PBAT composition, 2% by weight TECHMER PLAM111474, and 5% by weight degradation additive, the degradation additive comprising 5% iron stearate and 95% PLA carrier resin. The net is manufactured using the same procedure as in Example 6.

[0035] Example 8 A degradable extruded film of the present disclosure is produced using a mixture containing 50% by weight of Biopolymer 2003D sold under the trade name Ingeo™ available from NatureWorks as the PLA composition, and 50% by weight of FD92 sold under the trade name BioPBS™ available from PTT MCC Biochem Co., Ltd. as the PBS composition. No degradation additive was used. The same method as in Example 1 was used to extrude a film of the composition of Example 8.

[0036] Example 9 A degradable extruded film of the present disclosure is produced using a mixture containing 50% by weight of Biopolymer 2003D sold under the trade name Ingeo™ available from NatureWorks as the PLA composition, and 50% by weight of FZ91 sold under the trade name BioPBS™ available from PTT MCC Biochem Co., Ltd. as the PBS composition. No degradable additive was used. The same method as in Example 1 was used to extrude a film of the composition of Example 9.

[0037] Example 10 A degradable extruded film of the present disclosure is produced using a composition of 97% by weight polypropylene and 3% by weight Envirocare Ag 1000C available from Ciba Speciality Chemicals, UK, believed to contain 50%-80% polyethylene, 7.5%-22.5% cobalt stearate, and 7.5%-22.5% citric acid. The film of Example 10 is sold under the trade name Oxygrid™ available from Conewed. The same method as Example 1 was used to extrude a film of the composition of Example 10.

[0038] Example 11 A degradable extruded film of the present disclosure is produced using a mixture of 58% by weight Biopolymer 2003D as the PLA composition, 40% by weight F Blend C1200 as the PBAT composition, and 2% by weight degradation additive, the degradation additive including 5% iron stearate and 95% PLA carrier resin. The same method as in Example 1 was used to extrude a film of the composition of Example 11.

[0039] Example 12 A mixture containing 70% by weight of Biopolymer 2003D as the PLA composition, 15% by weight of F Blend C1200 as the PBAT composition, and 15% by weight of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHBH) is used to manufacture a degradable extruded film of the present disclosure. The same method as in Example 1 is used to extrude a film of the composition of Example 12.

[0040] Films of Examples 1, 2 and 4, the PLA / PBAT control film (Example 3), and polypropylene without degradation additives (Example 5) were tested for strength loss in the machine direction (MD strength loss). The MD strength loss of each sample was compiled through QUV-Accelerated Weathering testing following a slightly modified version of the procedure outlined in ASTM D4329-13. Samples were exposed to 50°C conditions with and without condensation using Q-Panel, QUV-Basic, and QUV-EM. UVA-340 lamps were used for 240 hours in an attempt to replicate conditions similar to those of a typical outdoor environment over time. Data collected from these strength loss tests are shown in Figures 2-3. Degradable extruded netting of the present disclosure was tested for longitudinal strength loss (MD strength loss) for netting made from the compositions of Examples 6 and 7, as well as the PLA / BPAT control of Example 3 and the polypropylene of Example 5. Data collected from these strength loss tests are shown in FIG.

[0041] Thermal stability testing was performed on films made from the compositions of Examples 1, 2, and 4, and the PLA / PBAT control (Example 3). No stabilizers were included in the given formulation. To test the materials, film samples were run on a cast film line at 365°F (185°C) to determine if the compositions showed signs of thermal degradation due to the thermal profile of the compositions during processing in the extrusion equipment. Degradation during processing results in lower pounds per inch readings for a given example as the polymer breaks down by hydrolysis, depolymerization, oxidation, etc. Data collected from the thermal stability testing is shown in Table 1 below. The PLA / PBAT control (Example 3) had a force per square inch value that was 5061 pounds per square inch. Examples 1 and 2 had higher values, while Example 4 showed signs of degradation and had a lower value as a result.

[0042] [Table 1]

[0043] In an embodiment where the presently described degradable netting is used to prepare sod, it is desirable to provide a degradable netting that is substantially bio-based without sacrificing affordability or manufacturability. Modulus and tensile strength tests were performed on blends of various amounts of PLA and PBS. The PLA composition was Biopolymer 2003D. The PBS compositions tested were BioPBS FZ91 and BioPBS FD92. Blends containing 0% PBS, 25% PBS, 50% PBS, 75% PBS, and 100% PBS were tested and compared to PLA / PBAT / Techmer blends containing 60%, 38% PBAT, and 2% Techmer™ PLAM111474 compatibilizer, as well as a composition made according to Example 10 above, sold under the trade name Oxygrid™, available from Conwed. Data collected from this testing is shown in Figures 5 and 6. As shown in FIG. 5, films made with a blend containing 50% PLA 2003D and 50% bioPBS FD92, i.e., the composition of Example 8, have lower modulus values ​​than films made with a blend containing PLA / PBAT / Techmer (Example 7), resulting in increased manufacturability. As shown in FIG. 6, the increased manufacturability afforded by films made from a blend containing 50% PLA 2003D and 50% bioPBS FD92, i.e., the composition of Example 8, is achieved while maintaining adequate tensile strength compared to the PLA / PBAT / Techmer control film.

[0044] The films of Examples 8 and 10-12 were tested for longitudinal strength loss (MD strength loss) through accelerated weathering. The percentage of remaining strength for each sample was collected through a QUV accelerated weathering test following a modified version of the procedure outlined in ASTM D4329-13. Using a Q-Panel, QUV-Basic, and QUV-EM, the samples were exposed to two different cycles designed to simulate conditions similar to those of a typical outdoor environment over time. The first cycle was 4 hours long, with UV light at 50 degrees Celsius. The second cycle was 4 hours long, with no light at 40 degrees Celsius. A UVA-340 lamp was used. After 100 hours of alternating between the two cycles, the samples were exposed to an outdoor temperature and moisture level of about 45 degrees Celsius and a humidity of about 80%. Data collected from the strength loss test is shown in FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 7, the film made with the composition of Example 8 performs similarly to the control film (Example 10) under accelerated weathering.

[0045] The degradable net can also be used to form other types of composites, in which the net is fixed to at least one or more layers of material.Examples of such composites include consumer wipes, reinforced tissue towels, and erosion control composites.Depending on the desired function of the net, those skilled in the art will be able to determine which composition should be used to make each layer and thereby control the rate of degradation. All issued patents, published patent applications, and non-patent publications mentioned in this specification are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes to the same extent as if each individual issued patent, published patent application, or non-patent publication was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

[0046] Although several embodiments of the present disclosure are shown in the drawings, it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the drawings, since the disclosure is as broad as the art will permit, and the specification is intended to be read in the same manner. Therefore, the above description should not be interpreted as limiting, but merely as exemplification of the presently disclosed embodiments. Thus, the scope of the embodiments should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, and not by the examples given. Those skilled in the art will understand that the apparatus and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting example embodiments. Features described or illustrated in connection with one example embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. Various alternatives and modifications can be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the disclosure. Accordingly, the disclosure is intended to encompass such alternatives, modifications and variations. Similarly, those skilled in the art will recognize additional features and advantages of the disclosure based on the above embodiments. Accordingly, the disclosure should not be limited by what has been particularly shown and described, except as indicated by the appended claims. Yet another aspect of the present invention may be as follows. [1] A degradable extruded netting comprising a plurality of interconnected strands, at least a portion of the strands being made of a polymer blend, the polymer blend comprising: a polylactic acid composition in an amount ranging from about 40% to about 60% by weight; and Polybutylene succinate composition in an amount ranging from about 40% to about 60% by weight. A degradable extruded netting comprising: [2] The degradable extruded net according to [1] above, further comprising a degradable additive in an amount ranging from about 0.1% by mass to about 5% by mass. [3] The polymer blend, About 48% to about 52% by weight of a polylactic acid composition; and About 48% to about 52% by weight of a polybutylene succinate composition The degradable extruded net described in [1] above. [4] The degradable extruded net according to [3] above, further comprising a degradable additive in an amount ranging from about 0.1% by mass to about 5% by mass. [5] The degradable extruded netting according to [1], wherein the degradable additive comprises a metal carboxylate in a carrier resin. [6] The degradable extruded netting according to [1], wherein the degradable additive comprises iron stearate in a carrier resin. [7] The degradable extruded net described in [1], wherein the polylactic acid composition contains one or more polylactic acid polymers derived from plant starch. [8] The degradable extruded net described in [1], further comprising a degradable additive in an amount of about 5% by mass. [9] The degradable extruded net described in [1], further comprising a degradable additive in an amount of about 3% by mass.

[10] The degradable extruded net described in [1], wherein the polybutylene succinate composition comprises an aliphatic polyester.

[11] The degradable extruded net according to [1], having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side; and a first layer of material secured to the first side of the netting; A complex comprising:

[12] A polymer blend composition suitable for preparing a degradable extruded net, comprising: a polylactic acid composition in an amount ranging from about 55% to about 60% by weight; a polybutyrate composition in an amount ranging from about 35% to about 40% by weight; a compatibilizer composition in an amount ranging from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight; and Decomposition additive in an amount ranging from about 2% to about 7% by weight The polymer blend composition comprising:

[13] A polylactic acid composition having a content of about 52% by mass to about 58% by mass; about 38% by weight of a polybutyrate composition; About 2% by weight of a polylactic acid-polybutyrate compatibilizer; and Approximately 2% to 8% by weight of decomposition additive The polymer blend composition according to

[12] above.

[14] About 55% by mass to about 57% by mass of a polylactic acid composition; and About 3% to about 5% by weight of decomposition additive The polymer blend composition according to claim 13,

[15] The polymer blend composition of

[12] above, wherein the decomposition additive comprises a metal carboxylate in a carrier resin.

[16] The polymer blend composition according to

[12] , wherein the decomposition additive comprises iron stearate in a carrier resin.

[17] The polymer blend composition according to

[12] , wherein the polybutyrate composition comprises one or more polybutyrate adipate terephthalate (PBAT) polymers.

[18] The polymer blend composition according to

[12] , wherein the polylactic acid composition comprises one or more polylactic acid polymers derived from plant starch.

[19] The polymer blend composition according to

[12] , wherein the compatibilizer composition comprises a compatibilizer selected from polypropylene glycol diglycidyl ether, epoxidized cottonseed oil (ECSO), or maleated cottonseed oil (MCSO).

[20] The polymer blend composition according to

[12] , wherein the decomposition additive comprises iron stearate and manganese stearate in a carrier resin.

[21] The polymer blend composition according to

[12] , wherein the decomposition additive comprises iron stearate in an amount of about 2.5% and manganese stearate in an amount of about 2.5%.

[22] A polymer blend composition suitable for preparing a degradable extruded net, comprising: a polylactic acid composition in an amount ranging from about 55% to about 60% by weight; a polybutyrate composition in an amount ranging from about 35% to about 43% by weight; and Decomposition additive in an amount ranging from about 2% to about 7% by weight The polymer blend composition comprising:

[23] A polylactic acid composition having about 58% by mass; about 40% by weight of a polybutyrate composition; and Approximately 2% by weight of decomposition additive The polymer blend composition according to

[22] above.

[24] The polymer blend composition according to

[22] , wherein the decomposition additive comprises a metal carboxylate in a carrier resin.

[25] The polymer blend composition according to

[22] , wherein the decomposition additive comprises iron stearate in a carrier resin.

[26] The polymer blend composition according to

[22] , wherein the polybutyrate composition comprises one or more polybutyrate adipate terephthalate (PBAT) polymers.

[27] The polymer blend composition according to

[22] , wherein the polylactic acid composition comprises one or more polylactic acid polymers derived from plant starch.

[28] Soil-grown grass and Degradable extruded net in soil and wherein the netting comprises a plurality of interconnected strands, at least a portion of the strands being made from a polymer blend, the polymer blend comprising: a polylactic acid composition in an amount ranging from about 40% to about 60% by weight; and Polybutylene succinate (PBS) composition in an amount ranging from about 40% to about 60% by weight. The turfgrass sod comprising:

[29] The turfgrass sod according to

[28] , further comprising a decomposition additive in an amount ranging from about 0.1 to about 5% by mass.

[30] The turfgrass sod according to

[28] , wherein the decomposition additive comprises iron stearate in a carrier resin.

[31] A method for growing sod, comprising the steps of: providing a netting material to the soil; and Cultivating a turfgrass crop in said soil. the netting material comprises a plurality of interconnected strands, at least a portion of the strands being made from a polymer blend, the polymer blend comprising: a polylactic acid composition in an amount ranging from about 40% to about 60% by weight; a polybutylene succinate (PBS) composition in an amount ranging from about 40% to about 60% by weight; and Decomposition additive in an amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 5% by weight The method comprising:

[32] The method according to

[31] , wherein the decomposition additive comprises iron stearate in a carrier resin.

Claims

1. 1. A degradable extruded netting comprising a plurality of interconnected strands, at least a portion of the strands being made from a polymer blend, the polymer blend comprising: A polylactic acid composition in an amount ranging from 40% to 60% by weight; and Polybutylene succinate composition in an amount ranging from 40% to 60% by weight A degradable extruded netting comprising:

2. The degradable extruded netting of claim 1, further comprising a degradable additive in an amount ranging from 0.1% by weight to 5% by weight.

3. The polymer blend comprises: 48% to 52% by weight of the polylactic acid composition; and 48% to 52% by weight of a polybutylene succinate composition The degradable extruded netting of claim 1, comprising:

4. The degradable extruded net described in claim 3, further comprising a degradable additive in an amount ranging from 0.1% by weight to 5% by weight.

5. 5. The degradable extruded netting of claim 4, wherein the degradable additive comprises a metal carboxylate in a carrier resin.

6. 5. The degradable extruded netting of claim 4, wherein the degradable additive comprises iron stearate in a carrier resin.

7. 2. The degradable extruded netting of claim 1, wherein the polylactic acid composition comprises one or more polylactic acid polymers derived from plant starch.

8. The degradable extruded netting of claim 1, further comprising a degradable additive in an amount of 5% by weight.

9. The degradable extruded netting of claim 1, further comprising a degradable additive in an amount of 3% by weight.

10. 2. The degradable extruded netting of claim 1, wherein the polybutylene succinate composition comprises an aliphatic polyester.

11. 10. The degradable extruded netting of claim 1 having a first side and a second side opposite the first side; and a first layer of material secured to the first side of the netting; A complex comprising:

12. A polymer blend composition for the preparation of a degradable extruded netting comprising: A polylactic acid composition in an amount ranging from 40% to 60% by weight; and Polybutylene succinate composition in an amount ranging from 40% to 60% by weight The polymer blend composition comprising:

13. 48% to 52% by weight of a polylactic acid composition; and 48% to 52% by weight of a polybutylene succinate composition 13. The polymer blend composition of claim 12, comprising:

14. 50% by weight of a polylactic acid composition; and 50% by weight of polybutylene succinate composition 14. The polymer blend composition of claim 13, comprising:

15. The polymer blend composition of claim 12, further comprising a compatibilizer composition, the compatibilizer composition comprising a compatibilizer selected from polypropylene glycol diglycidyl ether, epoxidized cottonseed oil (ECSO), or maleated cottonseed oil (MCSO).

16. The polymer blend composition of claim 12, further comprising a degradation additive, said degradation additive comprising one or more of iron stearate and manganese stearate in a carrier resin.

17. 17. The polymer blend composition of claim 16, wherein the degradation additive comprises iron stearate in an amount of 2.5% and manganese stearate in an amount of 2.5%.

18. A polymer blend composition for the preparation of a degradable extruded netting comprising: a polylactic acid composition in an amount ranging from 55% to 60% by weight; a polybutyrate composition in an amount ranging from 35% to 43% by weight; and Decomposition additive in an amount ranging from 2% to 7% by weight wherein the degradation additive comprises iron stearate and manganese stearate in a carrier resin.

19. A composition comprising 58% by weight of polylactic acid; 40% by weight of a polybutyrate composition; and 2% by weight decomposition additive 20. The polymer blend composition of claim 18, comprising:

20. 20. The polymer blend composition of claim 18, wherein the degradation additive comprises iron stearate in an amount of 2.5% and manganese stearate in an amount of 2.5%.

21. 20. The polymer blend composition of claim 18, wherein the polybutyrate composition comprises one or more polybutyrate adipate terephthalate (PBAT) polymers.

22. 20. The polymer blend composition of claims 12, 13 or 18, wherein the polylactic acid composition comprises one or more polylactic acid polymers derived from plant starch.

23. Grass grown in soil, Degradable extruded net in soil and wherein the netting comprises a plurality of interconnected strands, at least a portion of the strands being made from a polymer blend, the polymer blend comprising: A polylactic acid composition in an amount ranging from 40% to 60% by weight; and Polybutylene succinate (PBS) composition in an amount ranging from 40% to 60% by weight The turfgrass sod comprising:

24. The turfgrass sod of claim 23, further comprising a decomposition additive in an amount ranging from 0.1% to 5% by weight.

25. 25. The turfgrass sod of claim 24, wherein the degrading additive comprises iron stearate in a carrier resin.

26. 1. A method for growing sod, comprising: providing a netting material to the soil; and Cultivating a turfgrass crop in said soil. the netting material comprises a plurality of interconnected strands, at least a portion of the strands being made from a polymer blend, the polymer blend comprising: A polylactic acid composition in an amount ranging from 40% to 60% by weight; and Polybutylene succinate (PBS) composition in an amount ranging from 40% to 60% by weight The method comprising:

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the polymer blend further comprises a degradation additive.

28. 28. The method of claim 27, wherein the degradation additive comprises iron stearate in a carrier resin.

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