EP4037470A1 - Substrat en mousse destiné à la culture de plantes, le substrat en mousse étant conçu sous forme de godet, et procédé de fabrication d'un tel godet - Google Patents

Substrat en mousse destiné à la culture de plantes, le substrat en mousse étant conçu sous forme de godet, et procédé de fabrication d'un tel godet

Info

Publication number
EP4037470A1
EP4037470A1 EP20786089.1A EP20786089A EP4037470A1 EP 4037470 A1 EP4037470 A1 EP 4037470A1 EP 20786089 A EP20786089 A EP 20786089A EP 4037470 A1 EP4037470 A1 EP 4037470A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
plug
foam substrate
recess
growing plants
top surface
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP20786089.1A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Martin TIETEMA
Vincent VAN ASSEN
Martijn BELJAARS
Marjolein VENHUIZEN
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Foamplant BV
Original Assignee
Foamplant BV
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Foamplant BV filed Critical Foamplant BV
Publication of EP4037470A1 publication Critical patent/EP4037470A1/fr
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G24/00—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor
    • A01G24/40—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor characterised by their structure
    • A01G24/48—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor characterised by their structure containing foam or presenting a foam structure
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G9/00—Cultivation in receptacles, forcing-frames or greenhouses; Edging for beds, lawn or the like
    • A01G9/02—Receptacles, e.g. flower-pots or boxes; Glasses for cultivating flowers
    • A01G9/029—Receptacles for seedlings
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G9/00—Cultivation in receptacles, forcing-frames or greenhouses; Edging for beds, lawn or the like
    • A01G9/02—Receptacles, e.g. flower-pots or boxes; Glasses for cultivating flowers
    • A01G9/029—Receptacles for seedlings
    • A01G9/0293—Seed or shoot receptacles

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a foam substrate for growing plants, wherein the foam substrate is configured as a plug, and a method for manufacturing of such plug for growing plants.
  • Substrates for growing plants wherein the foam substrate is configured as a plug or methods for manufacturing of a plug are known from practice.
  • Such substrates for growing plants are known from hydroponic, semi-hydroponic, hydroculture and similar systems, wherein plants are grown in an alternative medium that transports water, fertilizer and other relevant components.
  • Such (growing) systems can be applied in glasshouses/greenhouses, for example.
  • substrate material is made from a synthetic material, such as rockwool manufactured from an inorganic fibre material or rockwool manufactured from peat/PUR, or is made from degradable/compostable material, such as compressed cocos plugs or compost plugs coated with a polymer sheet.
  • the roots of the plant penetrate into the substrate and fixate the plant.
  • feed systems provide water, fertilizer and other relevant components to the plant roots to enable plant growth.
  • One of the problems with such foam substrate, wherein the foam substrate is configured as a plug, relates to the fact that such plugs limit and/or reduce the ability of root growth.
  • Rockwool may cause root diseases, is harmful during manual handling, and is easily damaged.
  • peat/PUR is known to potentially clog the water infrastructure and has a complicated nutrient composition.
  • the present invention has as its object to provide a plug that obviates or at least reduces one or more of the aforementioned problems.
  • the foam substrate for growing plants, wherein the foam substrate is configured as a plug, according to the invention, wherein the plug comprises: a top surface; a bottom surface; and at least four side walls, extending over a height between the top surface and bottom surface, wherein the top surface comprises a recess, and wherein the bottom surface comprises an incision which extends from the bottom surface in the height direction of the plug towards the top surface.
  • a height also refers to a height direction. Furthermore, it is noted that extending over a height direction between the top surface and bottom surface refers to extending in a height direction over a height between the top surface and bottom surface.
  • an incision may encompasses multiple incisions, and should for the purpose of this application thus be read as at least one incision.
  • the foam substrate according to the present invention is configured as a plug.
  • the top surface With a recess, the seed or seedling is effectively provided to the plug.
  • the recess holds the seed or seedling in place before the seed or seedling germinates.
  • movement of the plug reduces the loss of a seed or seedling.
  • the position of the seed or seedling can be better controlled.
  • the seed or seedling is protected by the recess at the initial germination, when the plant is most fragile. This results in higher survival rates of the plants.
  • edges of the side walls provide locking of the plug when placed in an opening of a holder, especially when the opening of the holder is substantially rounded. More specifically, in a presently preferred embodiment the edges of the side walls provide a type of clamp fit. More preferably, the corners of the side walls are fixated in the opening of the holder, while between adjacent edges some free space is available between the plug and the opening wall of the holder. For example, this may give some free room for expansion of the plug due to water uptake and/or plant growth and/or gives free room for oxygen to reach the roots more easily.
  • the foam substrate according to the present invention comprises an incision which extends from the bottom surface in the height direction of the plug towards the top surface.
  • the incision minimises the friction and the hindrance of the foam substrate whilst growing the root, for example the main root. As a result the main root grows efficiently and effectively. This effect is even strengthened further in combination with the free room mentioned earlier.
  • the substrate is dimensionally stable.
  • the substrate will return to the original shape when bended, compressed and/or expanded.
  • the effect of the dimensional stability is that the substrate is easily transportable and easy to apply in agricultural systems. During transport the substrate does not require severe protection. When applied in agricultural systems, the substrate can be imprudently used as the shape of the foam will stay intact. In other words, the foam is not fragile and substantially remains in shape.
  • Such open cell structure preferably relates to a sponge-type structure with a number of interconnected openings or voids or pores or cells.
  • Such open cell structure has an advantage that a homogeneous and well-defined distribution of water and/or air in the substrate is provided.
  • the foam substrate according to the invention provides the open cell structure wherein the biodegradable foam substrate provides an open cell structure enabling water uptake which in turn promotes plant growth.
  • such an open cell structure comprises an open cell content of at least 50%.
  • This open cell content can be measured in accordance with mercury porosimetry or gas physisorption. This measurement is used to measure specific surface areas and pore sizes with a pore size distribution. It will be understood that other suitable measurements can also be performed.
  • the foam substrate according to the invention could be watered constantly, wherein substantially no substrate degradation of the plug was measured. Therefore, the foam substrate according to the invention may be provided with an overload of water without flushing valuable nutrients away.
  • the biodegradable foam substrate meets the criteria for an OK COMPOST certification as stipulated by TUV Austria, or a comparable certificate which allows the disposal of these materials in industrial composting facilities.
  • the biodegradable foam substrate meets the criteria stipulated for conformity to OK COMPOST HOME, as stipulated by TUV Austria, or a comparable certificate which allows the disposal of these materials in home composting conditions.
  • the plug is a skinless plug, wherein the open cell structure forms the side walls. It will be understood that a skinless plug is a plug without a sealed outer surface.
  • the open cell structure comprises an open cell content of the biodegradable foam substrate of at least 70% measured according to mercury porosimetry or gas physisorption, preferably the open cell content of the foam substrate is at least 80% measured according to mercury porosimetry or gas physisorption, more preferably the open cell content of the foam substrate is at least 90% measured according to mercury porosimetry or gas physisorption, most preferably the open cell content of the foam substrate is at least 95% measured according to mercury porosimetry or gas physisorption.
  • the foam substrate By providing the foam substrate with a relatively large open cell content roots can grow more easily, especially the lateral root and root hair can grow more easily.
  • the plants and especially the plant roots can be provided with water, fertilizer, nutrients and other relevant components also more easily. This stimulates root and plant growth.
  • the opening, pore and/or void comprises an overall average cell size in the range of 0.001 - 3.0 millimetres, preferably 0.01 - 2.0 millimetres, more preferably 0.01 - 1.5 millimetres, wherein the cells are interconnected voids.
  • a foam substrate having an average cell size in the range or one of the ranges as mentioned enables most plant roots to penetrate easily and grow effectively within the biodegradable foam substrate according to the invention.
  • 75% of the voids have a cell size within the range or ranges as mentioned, more preferably 95% of the voids have a cell size within the range or ranges as mentioned. It will be understood that this percentage refers to the amounts of voids by number.
  • the cell size is defined by the characteristic length or diameter of the void.
  • the cell size is determined by counting the number of cell walls over a predefined length in two directions, in accordance to ASTM 3576-15.
  • the cell size is determined using imaging software. For example, the open source software ImageJ with Fiji plugin.
  • the substrate is safe in use for manual handling. This implies that the substrate can be used in a safe manner. No further safety precautions, such as protective gloves, safety glasses, dust masks and the like are required when handling the substrate.
  • the substrate is hygienic and/or sterile. This results in the substrate having a reducing effect on the propagation of diseases and/or fungi. Plant diseases and/or fungi are detrimental for plants, especially when started at the roots of the plants.
  • the substrate is substantially inert with a nutrient and/or fertilizer solution provided to the growing plant. This results in the substrate having a reduced effect on the waste of valuable nutrients. The nutrients can be consumed by the roots of the plant instead of flowing away.
  • the foam substrate is an integrally extruded foam.
  • integrally extruded foam provides a foam substrate suitable for continuous process.
  • the extruded material is cut into plugs. As a result an effective and efficient continuous process is achieved.
  • An advantage of such a plug is that waste is reduced to a minimum.
  • the plug can be adapted to the plant it is used for.
  • the size of the recess in the top surface of the plug can be dimensioned in accordance to the plant/seed size.
  • Extruding the foam integrally involves the extrusion of the foam within the extruder. Therefore, the extruder is provided with multiple zones, such zones are for example an intake zone, injection zone, and mixing zone. Expansion of the foam is achieved within and/or after a mould or die.
  • a further advantage of such integrally extruded foam is that the foam is dry and free of solvents when it is expanded. This reduces the costs of drying and/or removing any solvent.
  • the foam substrate comprises a biodegradable polymer, wherein the biodegradable polymer is a polyester and/or an aromatic polymer.
  • biodegradable relates to the degradation resulting in a loss of properties from the action of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and algae.
  • biodegradable polymer pertains to a degradable polymer material in which the degradation results from the action of naturally occurring microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and algae.
  • a biodegradable polymer material is a material designed to undergo a significant change in chemical structure, resulting in a loss of some properties that may be measured by standard tests methods appropriate to the plastic and the application in a period of time that determines its classification. Depending on the additional components present in the composition and the dimensions of the object made from said biodegradable material, the time required for a degradation will vary and may also be controlled when desired.
  • the foam substrate according to the invention By manufacturing the foam substrate according to the invention from a biodegradable polymer, wherein the biodegradable polymer is a polyester and/or an aromatic polymer, an environmentally friendly substrate for growing plants is achieved. This significantly reduces the environmental footprint of growing plants and plant substrates in glasshouses/greenhouses, for example involving hydroponic plant systems or other suitable systems.
  • the substrate is preferably also compostable.
  • compostable relates to degradation by biological processes resulting in the yield of C0 2 , water, inorganic compounds and biomass. Therefore, the biodegradable polymer in the foam substrate according to the invention is capable of being degraded such that the water infrastructure and/or water treatment plants are prevented from clogging.
  • the biodegradable polymer in the foam substrate according to the invention is dimensional stable which prevents accumulation of the foam substrate causing blockages.
  • the plants may even profit from the degradation of the substrate material.
  • the disposal of the substrate material is much easier, thereby contributing to an effective and efficient substrate for plant growth.
  • the foam substrate according to the invention further comprises a nucleating agent, wherein the nucleating agent is chosen from the group of talc, cellulose, hydrotalcite, calcium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, potassium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate, aluminium carbonate, aluminium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, calcium bicarbonate, calcium stearate, or a mixture thereof.
  • the nucleating agent is chosen from the group of talc, cellulose, hydrotalcite, calcium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, potassium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate, aluminium carbonate, aluminium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, calcium bicarbonate, calcium stearate, or a mixture thereof.
  • nucleating agent as one or more components from the aforementioned group provides an efficient biodegradable foam substrate according to the invention.
  • polyester and/or aromatic polymer is branched and/or crosslinked. This branching and/or crosslinking contributes to providing an open cell structure.
  • the biodegradable polymer is chosen from the group of polybutylene sebacate terephthalate and/or polybutylene adipate terephthalate.
  • polybutylene sebacate terephthalate and/or polybutylene adipate terephthalate provides an effective biodegradable foam substrate that is biodegradable and preferably compostable.
  • it also provides the improved possibility to fixate the plants in the substrate, while enabling plant roots to penetrate and grow into the foam substrate.
  • biodegradable polymers especially contribute to the flexibility and toughness of the resulting biodegradable foam substrate for growing plants.
  • the biodegradable polymer can also be of the group polyhydroxyalkanoate, poly(lactic acid), polybutylene succinate.
  • biodegradable polymers can be applied as an alternative to the aforementioned polymers or can be used in a mixture therewith. Such mixture provides a substrate that is flexible and tough, properties relating to a relatively high elastic modulus and strength.
  • polybutylene adipate terephthalate substantially contributes to the flexibility and toughness of the foam substrate, and the other biodegradable polymers contribute to the strength and rigidness of the foam substrate.
  • the biodegradable polymer of the group polyhydroxyalkanoate, poly(lactic acid), polybutylene succinate is used in a mixture with polybutylene sebacate terephthalate and/or polybutylene adipate terephthalate in the range of 10 - 90 wt%, preferably in the range of 10 - 60 wt% and most preferably in the range of 10 - 30 wt%. It was shown that such mixture provides a foam structure with an open cell structure having good properties for growing plants and enables providing a plug having good properties for growing plants.
  • the cells of the foam substrate have pores with a total volume in the range of 2.5 - 100 cm 3 g preferably in the rang of 2.5 - 50 cm 3 g more preferably in the range of 5 - 4 cm 3 g
  • the substrate according to the invention is capable of containing and/or absorbing water with its relevant components in its cells, to which is also referred to as openings, voids, pores, wherein the cells are preferably interconnected with each other.
  • the pores have a total volume with at least 75 % of the total pore volume being within this range, more preferably the pores have a total volume with at least 95% of the total pore volume being within this range.
  • the foam substrate according to the invention is capable of containing and/or absorbing water with its relevant components in its cells, to which is also referred to as openings, voids, pores, wherein the cells are preferably interconnected with each other.
  • openings, voids, pores wherein the cells are preferably interconnected with each other.
  • the foam substrate preferably has a glass-transition temperature of at most 60 °C or less, preferably a glass-transition temperature of at most 30 °C or less, more preferably a glass-transition temperature of at most 0 °C or less, most preferably a glass- transition temperature of at most -20 °C or less.
  • the foam substrate density is preferably in the range of 10 kg m 3 - 200 kg m 3 , more preferably the foam density substrate is in the range of 20 kg m 3 - 90 kg m 3 , even more preferably the foam substrate density is in the range of 30 kg m 3 - 70 kg m 3 , and most preferably the foam substrate density is about 50 kg m 3 .
  • the weight average molecular weight of the biodegradable polymer is preferably in the range of 10.000 g mol 1 - 1.000.000 g mol 1 , preferably the weight average molecular weight of the biodegradable polymer is in the range of 10.000 g mol 1 - 500.000 g mol 1 , more preferably the weight average molecular weight of the biodegradable polymer is in the range of 20.000 g mol 1 - 250.000 g mol 1 , most preferably the weight average molecular weight of the biodegradable polymer is in the range of 30.000 g mol 1 - 150.000 g mol 1 .
  • the weight average molecular weight was determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) according to ISO 13885-1.
  • a biodegradable polymer comprising a total pore volume in the range of 2.5 to 50 cm 3 g preferably 2.5 to 25 cm 3 g more preferably in the range of 5 to 25 cm 3 g a glass-transition temperature of at most 0 °C or less, preferably -20 °C or less, a foam substrate density in the range of 30 kg m 3 to 100 kg m 3 , preferably in the range of 55 kg m 3 to 100 kg m 3 , a weight average molecular weight in the range of 20.000 g mol 1 to 250.000 g mol 1 , preferably in the range of 30.000 g mol 1 to 150.000 g mol 1 , wherein at least 75%, preferably at least 95% of the voids have a cell size within the overall average cell size range of 0.01 to 2.0 millimetres, preferably in the range of 0.01 to 1.5 millimetres provided an efficient and effective biodegradable substrate for growing plants.
  • Such substrate provided efficient and effective root growth due to the combination of pore volume and foam substrate density. Furthermore, the substrate provided efficient and effective support for the roots to grow.
  • the weight average molecular weight was determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) according to ISO 13885-1.
  • a further advantage of the biodegradable substrate for growing plants is that the substrate is easily compostable due to the combination of pore volume and foam substrate density.
  • the biodegradable foam substrate with the aforementioned properties provides an effective and efficient substrate for growing plants.
  • the substrate fulfils all of the aforementioned properties to have the most optimum conditions for growing plants.
  • the foam substrate further comprises an additive, wherein the additive is chosen from the group of perlite, vermiculite, nanoclay, salts, cellulose fibres, hemp fibres, cotton fibres, coconut fibres, polyethylene glycol, poloxamers, surfactants, plant nutrients, sugars, or a mixture thereof.
  • the additive is chosen from the group of perlite, vermiculite, nanoclay, salts, cellulose fibres, hemp fibres, cotton fibres, coconut fibres, polyethylene glycol, poloxamers, surfactants, plant nutrients, sugars, or a mixture thereof.
  • the additive or additives that are actually added can be chosen depending on the desired properties of the biodegradable foam substrate, which may depend on the specific plant or plant variety.
  • perlite and vermiculite are beneficial for water uptake and root growth.
  • Nanoclay is beneficial for water uptake and fixation of the polymer matrix.
  • Salts can be used to improve water uptake and plant feed.
  • the cellulose fibres can be designed for different properties. For example, with regular cellulose fibres water uptake, compostability and the amount of bio-based content can be improved. Ultrafine cellulose fibres improve water uptake, fixation of the polymer matrix and improved bio-based content. Nanocrystalline fibres improve water uptake and fixation of the polymer matrix.
  • Nanofibril fibres improve fixation of the polymer matrix and water uptake.
  • Surface modified cellulose fibres such as CMC improve water uptake.
  • Other components improve other properties.
  • hemp fibres improve handling, compostability and improve bio-based content.
  • Cotton fibres improve water uptake, handling, compostability and improve bio-based content.
  • coconut fibres act as colorant and improve water uptake and compostability.
  • Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and poloxanes and (polymeric) surfactants improve water uptake.
  • Plant fertilizer and/or nutrients improve growing of seedlings, for example.
  • Sugars improve water uptake and also growth of seedlings.
  • the plug further comprises a number of side walls in the range of 5 to 12, more preferably in the range of 5 to 8, and wherein even more preferably the plug comprises six side walls.
  • a further advantage of the plug with a number of side walls in the range of 5 to 12, preferably 5 to 8, preferably in the range of 6 to 7, most preferably 6, is that water and/or nutrients and/or fertilizer and/or oxygen can more efficiently and effectively be provided to the roots. This results in improved root growth, especially the growth of root hair.
  • the side walls provide the top surface and bottom surface of the plug with substantially the shape in the form a square, pentagon, hexagon, heptagon or octagon.
  • the recess comprises a diameter of at least 3 mm, preferably of at least 4 mm, most preferably of at least 5 mm and preferably located substantially in the middle of the top surface.
  • a recess comprising a diameter of at least 3 mm, preferably of at least 4 mm, most preferably of at least 5 mm and located substantially in the middle of the top surface provides a plug which can hold a seed or seedling without loosing the seed or seedling during transport and which can be loaded automatically.
  • the recess comprises a diameter of at most 6 mm.
  • the diameter of at least 3 mm, preferably of at least 4 mm, most preferably of at least 5 mm or 6 mm of the recess preferably corresponds to (at least) the diameter of the recess at the top surface.
  • Another advantage of such a recess is that the contact surface between foam substrate and seed or seedling is increased compared to a foam substrate without a recess. This results in efficient and effective plant growth. Therefore, the seed or seedling is easily provided with all the water, nutrients, and oxygen required for the growth of the plant.
  • the recess comprises a depth of at least 15% of the height of the plug, preferably at least 20% of the height, most preferably at least 45% of the height.
  • a recess comprising a depth of at least 15% of the height of the plug, preferably at least 20% of the height, most preferably at least 45% of the height results in a plug wherein the seed or seedling has an optimal contact with the surface of the recess of the plug.
  • a further advantage is that the seed or seedling is protected by the recess, resulting in a reduction of the loss of plants during growth due to handling.
  • the recess comprises a depth of at least 50%, 66%, 75% or 100% of the height of the plug, wherein a depth of 100% of the height is a channel.
  • the recess includes a constant width.
  • the recess comprises a depth of 100% of the height of the plug such that the recess corresponds to a channel.
  • the width of the recess changes, wherein the change of width is tapered or stepwise.
  • Providing a recess wherein the change of width is tapered or stepwise has the advantage that the pen root growth improves due to reduction of friction and less hindrance.
  • a depth of 100% of the height the recess is a channel.
  • the recess is also a channel when the depth of the recess and the incision which extends from the bottom surface in the height direction of the plug towards the top surface together comprise 100% of the height of the plug.
  • Such a channel can be provided to the plug by a needle gap, punch and the like.
  • the incision which extends from the bottom surface in the direction of the top surface extends in the range of 10% to 80% of the height of the plug, preferably extends in the range of 20% to 70% of the height, more preferably extends in the range of 30% to 60% of the height, even more preferably extends in the range of 40% to 50% of the height, most preferably extends about 50% of the height.
  • the root is provided with all the required water, nutrients and oxygen. Therefore the pen root can grow efficiently and effectively.
  • the incision is a cross or star, wherein the cross or star comprises at least three legs preferably with at least four legs, wherein the legs extend from a substantial middle of the plug to the side wall.
  • the leg of a cross or star is defined as the part extending away from the middle of the cross or star.
  • the cross or star comprises four legs. Experiments showed that such a cross or star provided efficient and effective growth of the plant root.
  • the cross or star comprises eight legs, or even twelve legs. It was found that that such a cross or star provided efficient and effective growth of the plant root.
  • the top surface comprises a top-down incision which extends from the top surface in the direction of the bottom surface.
  • a top-down incision which extends from the top surface in the direction of the bottom surface results in a reduced friction and less hindrance for growing the pen root.
  • a further advantage is that the first leaves of the plant are protected and provided with stability. This will prevent damage of the leaves and stimulates efficient and effective growth of the plant.
  • top-down incision which extends from the top surface in the direction of the bottom surface is that the first leaves are less hindered by the plug.
  • Providing a top-down incision to the top surface extending from the top surface extending in the direction of the bottom surface as such, can be providing the incision to the top surface extending from the top surface in the direction of the bottom surface in a different plane compared to the incision to the bottom surface extending in the direction of the top surface.
  • the incision extends in a width direction from a centre position of the top surface of the plug to at least the radius of the recess, preferably wherein two or more top-down incisions extending from the top surface are configured in different planes, wherein the planes are substantially parallel to the height of the plug.
  • the centre position of the top surface of the plug preferably corresponds to the centre position of the top surface, wherein the centre position preferably is a substantial centre position of the recess and the recess is positioned substantially in the middle of the top surface.
  • the top-down incision from the top surface extending in the direction of the bottom surface extends in the range of 25% to 100% of the height of the plug, preferably extends in the range of 40% to 100% of the height, more preferably extends in the range of 50% to 90% of the height.
  • a top-down incision from the top surface extending in the direction of the bottom surface extending in the range of 5% to 100% of the height preferably extends in the range of 40% to 100% of the height, more preferably extends in the range of 50% to 90% of the height provides efficient and effective root growth.
  • the top-down incision from the top surface extending in the direction of the bottom surface extends over 100% of the height of the plug.
  • incision from the bottom surface extending in the direction of the top surface and/or the top-down incision from the top surface extending in the direction of the bottom surface can be alternatively or in addition thereto, an incision under an angle.
  • the top-down incision may extend and the incision which extends from the bottom surface in the height direction of the plug towards the top surface may be in a ratio of 40% to 60% of the height of the plug.
  • the top-down incision extends in a width direction from a centre position of the top surface of the plug to one or more of the at least four side walls.
  • the recess further comprises an additional recess, wherein the additional recess is operatively coupled with the recess and wherein the additional recess is substantially round and comprises about 95% of the top surface, preferably about 93% of the top surface, most preferably about 90% of the top surface.
  • An additional recess which comprises about 95% of the top surface, preferably about 93% of the top surface, most preferably about 90% of the top surface results in that the seed or seedling is efficiently and effectively directed to the recess and more plugs will effectively charged with a seed or seedling.
  • the additional recess comprises about 50% of the top surface or about 33% of the top surface.
  • An even further advantage of such an additional recess is that light can reach the seed or seedling more effectively and efficiently. Therefore, the grow rate of the plant is increased.
  • the bottom surface further comprises a bottom recess, wherein the bottom recess comprises a depth of at least 15% of the height of the plug, preferably at least 20% of the height, most preferably at least 45% of the height.
  • Root hair is preferred due to the fact that root hair provides the plant with valuable nutrients and water. Furthermore, so-called water roots are less likely to develop.
  • Another advantage of such a bottom recess is that the plug is more formable on the bottom of the plug. This results in easier placement of the plugs in a tray.
  • bottom recess may have a conical shape.
  • the recess of the foam substrate for growing plants comprising a depth of at least 15% of the height of the plug, preferably at least 20% of the height, most preferably at least 45% of the height, and the bottom recess of the foam substrate for growing plants comprising a depth of at least 15% of the height, preferably at least 20% of the height, more preferably at least 45% of the height, and most preferably at most 55% of the height.
  • the recess of the foam substrate for growing plants and the bottom recess of the foam substrate for growing plants are connected with each other, wherein the recess and the bottom recess are configured to provide two recesses extending over the entire length of the plug, wherein the bottom recces comprises a depth of at least 60% of the height of the plug, wherein the recess forms a bucket to hold a seed, and wherein the lowest point of the recess and the highest point of the bottom recess are separated from each other by at least 1 mm.
  • the additional recess comprises about 50% of the top surface or about 33% of the top surface.
  • the plug comprises one or more supply channels in the height direction of the plug.
  • the plug further comprises one or more supply channels in a width direction of the plug.
  • Providing the plug with one or more supply channels results in an improved uptake of water and/or nutrients and/or fertilizer and/or oxygen. As a result the lateral root and root hair grow efficiently and effectively.
  • the height of the plug may be in the range of 1 cm to 50 cm, preferably in the range of 1 cm to 40 cm.
  • the top surface and/or bottom surface may have a diameter of at least 0.5 times the height of the plug.
  • the diameter is 3 cm, 4 cm, 5 cm, or 6 cm.
  • the diameter is the distance between two points of the top surface or bottom surface which are furthest away from each other.
  • the depth of the recess is in the range of 6 to 18 mm, preferably in the range of 8 to 14, more preferably about 12 mm.
  • the incision in the foam substrate for growing plants comprises two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, or twelve incisions.
  • the invention also relates to a method for manufacturing of a plug for growing plants, comprising the steps of: providing a foam substrate; removing the outer surface of the foam substrate and shaping the plug; providing a recess in the top surface; and providing an incision in the bottom surface which extends in the direction of the top surface to form the plug according to the invention.
  • the method provides similar effects and advantages as described in relation to the foam substrate for growing plants, wherein the foam substrate is configured as a plug.
  • the method comprises the steps of providing a mixture of biodegradable polymer, nucleating agent and a branching agent and/or crosslinking agent to form a reagent mixture, heating the mixture, providing a physical blowing agent to the mixture, and substantially completely extruding of the mixture to form the biodegradable foam substrate.
  • the physical blowing agent is preferably carbon dioxide, nitrogen, argon, MTBE, air, (iso)pentane, propane, butane and the like or a mixture thereof. It is shown that this provides an effective foam structure with the desired open structure.
  • a branching and/or crosslinking agent is added.
  • the branching and/or crosslinking agent comprises, for example, a compound with multiple epoxide functionalities, preferably in the form of an oligomer or polymer where the epoxide functionalities are pendant to the main chain. It will be understood the branching and/or crosslinking agent could be any moiety with two or more unsaturations, capable of reacting with the polymer chain in the presence of free radicals.
  • branching agent/crosslinking agents are butadiene, butadiene derived polymers, divynylbenzene, benzoquinone, furfuryl sulphite, or a mixture thereof.
  • compounds which can form free radicals are dicumyl peroxide, di-ZcrZ-butyl peroxide, tert- butyl peroxibenzoate, ZerZ-peroxyacetate, or a mixture thereof.
  • branching and/or crosslinking can be initiated by other methods than chemical initiation, such as initiation by light, radiation and/or heat.
  • the removing step further comprises removing at least the outer 0.1 mm of the foam substrate and shaping the plug with a number of side walls in the range of 4 to 12, preferably in the range of 4 to 8, and more preferably shaping the plug with six side walls.
  • the side walls define a plug with substantially a cylindrical square shape, cylindrical pentagonal shape, cylindrical hexagonal, cylindrical heptagonal shape or cylindrical octagonal shape.
  • Providing 4 to 12 or 4 to 8 side walls results in a plug with improved aqueous medium uptake and/or root growth and/or oxygen excess to the roots.
  • the plug can expand by uptake of aqueous medium and/or nutrients, as a result damaging of the seed, seedling, plant cut, leaves and/or roots is reduced.
  • An advantage of removing the at least outer 0.1 mm of the foam substrate is that the skin of the plug is removed such that root growth is less hindered, due to the fact that the outer side of the plug is hard to penetrate for roots.
  • a further advantage of providing the plug with side walls is that root growth is improved. Water and/or nutrients and/or fertilizer and/or oxygen can reach the root more easily and lateral root and/or root hair growth is more efficiently and effectively.
  • the method further comprises the step of providing an incision in the top surface which extends in the direction of the bottom surface, wherein the step of providing a recess comprises providing a recess and an additional recess, the step of providing a recess in the bottom surface, and the step of providing the plug with a channel in the height direction and/or width direction.
  • the extrusion step of the method according to the invention comprises a single extrusion step to form an integrally extruded foam substrate.
  • the invention also relates to a method for growing a plant using the foam substrate configured as a plug according to the invention, comprising the steps of: providing a seed or plant cut to the recess; and providing the plug with an aqueous medium.
  • the method provides similar effects and advantages as described in relation to the foam substrate for growing plants, wherein the foam substrate is configured as a plug, and the method for manufacturing of a plug for growing plants.
  • the method provides an efficient and effective way to growth plants, wherein the environmental foot print is reduced.
  • FIG. 1 shows a side view of the foam substrate, wherein the foam substrate is configured as a plug for growing plants;
  • FIG. 2 shows a top view of the plug for growing plants of figure 1 ;
  • Figure 3 shows a cross section of the plug for growing plants of figure 1 ;
  • FIG. 4 shows an alternative embodiment of a plug
  • FIG. 5 shows a top view of the alternative embodiment of a plug for growing plants of figure 4;
  • FIG. 6 shows a cross section of an alternative embodiment of a plug
  • FIG. 7 - 9 shows a further alternative embodiment of a plug for growing a plant
  • FIG. 10 A - B shows a plant growing system with a plug from biodegradable foam substrate according to the invention
  • FIG. 11 schematically shows the method for manufacturing of a plug for growing plants
  • - Figure 12 schematically shows the method for growing a plant using the foam substrate configured as a plug
  • FIG. 13 shows a GPC spectrum of the biodegradable polymer of the foam substrate
  • FIG. 15 shows a microscopic photo of foam comprising an open cell structure
  • Plug 2 (Figure 1) comprises top surface 4, bottom surface 6 and side walls 8, wherein side walls 8 extend between top surface 4 and bottom surface 6.
  • Plug 2 has height h.
  • Top surface 4 comprises recess 10 and bottom surface 6 comprises incisions 12 which extend from bottom surface 6 in the height (h) direction of plug 2 towards top surface 4.
  • the connection between adjacent side walls 8 form edges 14.
  • the number of edges 14 is equal to the number of side walls 8. In the illustrated embodiment this number of edges is six and the cross- sectional shape substantially shows a hexagon.
  • top surface 4 further comprises additional recess 16, for guiding a seed or seedling to recess 10, and top-down incision 18 which extends from top surface 4 in the height (h) direction of plug 2 towards bottom surface 6.
  • Top view 20 of plug 2 ( Figure 2) comprises top surface 4 comprising recess 10, incision 12 which extends from bottom surface 6 in the height (h) direction of plug 2 towards top surface 4, additional recess 16, and top-down incision 18 which extends from top surface 4 in the height (h) direction of plug 2 towards bottom surface 6.
  • Top view 20 comprises six side walls 8, the connection between side walls 8 form edges 14.
  • the diameter of recess 10 is indicated with a
  • the diameter of additional recess 16 is indicated with b
  • the distance between two opposite and parallel side walls 8 is indicated with c.
  • diameter a is at least 3 mm
  • b is at most 0.5c.
  • Distance c is in the range of about 1 cm to about 20 cm, preferably about 1.25 cm to about 15 cm, more preferably about 1.5 cm to about 8 cm, most preferably about 2 cm.
  • Cross section 22 of plug 2 ( Figure 3) comprises top surface 4, recess 10, incision 12 which extends from bottom surface 6 in the height (h) direction of plug 2 towards top surface 4, additional recess 16, top-down incision 18 which extends from top surface 4 in the height (h) direction of plug 2 towards bottom surface 6, side walls 8, bottom surface 6, and bottom surface recess 24.
  • Incision 12 which extends from bottom surface 6 in the height (h) direction of plug 2 towards top surface 4 extends to about half way the height (h) direction of plug 2 in the shown embodiment.
  • Cross section 22 further comprises edges 14.
  • cross section comprises supply channel 26.
  • Supply channel 26 can be directed vertically, horizontally or diagonally. In the illustrated embodiment the supply channel 26 is shown with a relatively large diameter. It will be understood that this diameter will most likely be much smaller.
  • plug 28 ( Figure 4) comprises top surface 4, bottom surface 6 and side wall 8, wherein side walls 8 are extended between top surface 4 and bottom surface 6.
  • Top surface 4 comprises recess 10 and top-down incision 30 which extends from top surface 4 in the height (h) direction of plug 28 towards bottom surface 6.
  • Bottom surface 6 comprises incision 12 which extends from bottom surface 6 in the height (h) direction of plug 28 towards top surface 4.
  • the connection between side walls 8 form edges 14, it will be understood that the number of edges 14 is equal to the number of side walls 8.
  • Top view 32 of plug 28 ( Figure 5) comprises top surface 4 comprising recess 10, incision 12 (not shown) which extends from bottom surface 6 in the height (h) direction of plug 28 towards top surface 4, and top-down incision 30 which extends from top surface 4 in the height (h) direction of plug 28 towards bottom surface 6.
  • the diameter of recess 10 is indicated with a
  • the distance between two opposite and parallel side walls 8 is indicated with c.
  • diameter a is at least 3 mm
  • b is at most 0.5c.
  • Distance c is in the range of about 1 cm to about 20 cm, preferably about 1.25 cm to about 15 cm, more preferably about 1.5 cm to about 8 cm, most preferably about 2 cm.
  • Cross section 34 of plug 28 ( Figure 6) comprises top surface 4, recess 10, and bottom surface recess 24.
  • Cross section 22 further comprises edges 14 and additional incision not shown.
  • the additional incision is provided to recess 10, and extends from top surface 4 in the height direction (h) of plug 28 towards bottom surface 6.
  • Preferably the additional incision extends over the full height (h) of plug 28, forming a channel. This additional incision provides improved pen root growth.
  • Incision 12 which extends from bottom surface 6 in the height (h) direction of plug 2 towards top surface 4 extends to half way the height (h) direction of plug 28 in the shown embodiment.
  • cross section comprises centre part 38.
  • Centre part 38 comprises a variable width. The width of centre part 38 is depending on the height of incision 12 and incision 30.
  • centre part 38 is shown with a relatively large diameter. It will be understood that this diameter will most likely be much smaller.
  • Incision 12 which extends from bottom surface 6 in the height (h) direction of plug 2 towards top surface 4 and incision 30 which extends from top surface 4 in the height (h) direction of plug 2 towards bottom surface 6 are shown as a plane and line of a substantially perpendicular plane.
  • plug 29 ( Figure 7) comprises top surface 4, bottom surface 6 and side 8, wherein side walls 8 are extended between top surface 4 and bottom surface 6.
  • Top surface 4 comprises recess 10 and top-down incision 30 which extends from top surface 4 in the height (h) direction of plug 29 towards bottom surface 6.
  • Bottom surface 6 comprises incision 12 which extends from bottom surface 6 in the height (h) direction of plug 29 towards top surface 4.
  • the connection between side walls 8 form edges 14, it will be understood that the number of edges 14 is equal to the number of side walls 8.
  • Side wall 8 further comprises supply channel 40.
  • Supply channel 40 can be directed vertically, horizontally or diagonally. In the illustrated embodiment supply channel 40 is shown with a relatively large diameter. It will be under that this diameter will most likely be much smaller.
  • Top view 33 of plug 29 ( Figure 8) comprises top surface 4 comprising recess 10, incision 12 (not shown) which extends from bottom surface 6 in the height (h) direction of plug 29 towards top surface 4, and top-down incision 30 which extends from top surface 4 in the height (h) direction of plug 29 towards bottom surface 6.
  • the diameter of recess 10 is indicated with a
  • the distance between two opposite and parallel side walls 8 is indicated with c.
  • diameter a is at least 3 mm
  • b is at most 0.5c.
  • Distance c is in the range of about 1 cm to about 20 cm, preferably about 1.25 cm to about 15 cm, more preferably about 1.5 cm to about 8 cm, most preferably about 2 cm.
  • Cross section 35 of plug 29 ( Figure 9) comprises top surface 4, recess 10, and bottom surface recess 24.
  • Cross section 22 further comprises edges 14 and additional incision not shown.
  • the additional incision is provided to recess 10, and extends from top surface 4 in the height direction (h) of plug 29 towards bottom surface 6.
  • Preferably the additional incision extends over the full height (h) of plug 29, forming a channel.
  • This additional incision provides improved pen root growth.
  • cross section comprises supply channel 40.
  • Supply channel 40 can be directed vertically, horizontally or diagonally. In the illustrated embodiment the supply channel 40 is shown with a relatively large diameter. It will be understood that this diameter will most likely be much smaller.
  • Plug with plant 50 (Figure 10A) comprises plug 2 according to the invention and plant 52.
  • the roots of plant 52 can grow into the substrate as shown in excision 54 for the pen root and excision 56 for the lateral roots and root hairs.
  • Plant growing system 60 ( Figure 10 B) comprises tray or gutter 62 for holding biodegradable foam substrate, wherein the foam substrate is configured as plug 64. Tray or gutter 62 and plug 64 define free space 66. Free space 66 can be provided with water and/or nutrient and/or fertilizer and/or oxygen. Plants 68 are positioned and fixated in plug 64 having roots 70 penetrating and growing in plug 64. Supply 72 provides water and/or fertilizer and/or nutrients and/or oxygen (and other relevant components) to plant growing system 60 and especially to plug 64. Output 74 collects the remaining flow, which can be analysed by analyser 76 to optimise the plants needs. From analyser 76 the flow is sent to drain 78. In an alternative system, output 74 can be fed to plant growing system 60 by a pump. Furthermore, additives can be dosed to supply 72.
  • Manufacturing of a plug for growing plants 100 starts with providing a foam substrate 102.
  • Providing step 102 is followed by a removing and shaping step 104.
  • the outer surface of the foam is removed and the plug is shaped in the desired form.
  • the top surface of the plug is provided with a recess by providing step 106 and the bottom is provided with an incision by the step of providing an incision in the bottom surface which extends in the direction of the top surface 108.
  • an incision in the top surface which extends in the direction of the bottom surface is provided in providing step 110, a recess is provided in providing step 112, and supply channels in the height direction and/or width direction in providing step 114 can be provided to the method of manufacturing a plug for growing plants 100.
  • providing step 102 starts with selecting the desired properties for substrate 6 in selection step 116.
  • Mixing step 118 provides the desired mixture of biodegradable polymers and one or more nucleating agents.
  • This mixture of biodegradable polymers and nucleating agent(s) is provided to the extruder in supply step 120.
  • additives can also be added in adding step 122.
  • the mixture is heated in heating step 124 to or towards the desired temperature.
  • the heated mixture is transported in extrusion step 126, and preferably confronted with a physical blowing agent, such as carbon dioxide in blowing step 128. Then the actual forming of a foam structure in foaming step 130 takes place resulting in the raw end product.
  • the raw product is dimensioned in dimensioning step 132. For example, this may involve cutting the raw substrate material into the desired size and shape.
  • the substrate 6 is transported and stored in transport step 134.
  • foam substrate 6 As soon as foam substrate 6 is needed it is installed in installation step 136. After installation plants can grow on and into the substrate in growing step 138. This may also involve degradation of the substrate material at the optional use of its components for the plant growth.
  • Growing a plant 200 (Figure 12) using the foam substrate configured as plug 2 comprises the steps of providing a seed or plant cut to the recess 202 and providing the plug with an aqueous medium 204.
  • Analysis of the biodegradable polymer by GPC shows that a weight average molecular weight of the biodegradable polymer in the range of 10.000 g mol 1 - 1.000.000 g mol 1 was achieved. The weight average molecular weight was determined according to ISO 13885-1. The weight average molecular weight in g mol 1 (shown on the x-axis) was plotted against the PSS SECcurity RI (shown on the y-axis).
  • FIG. 14A and 14B A further analysis of the biodegradable polymer by GPC ( Figures 14A and 14B) show that a biodegradable polymer with a molecular weight of respectively 106.379 g mol 1 and 121.898 g mol 1 is achieved.
  • the weight average molecular weight was determined according to ISO 13885-1.
  • the retention volume (mL, shown on the x-axis) was plotted against the weight average molecular weight (Mw, shown on the y-axis).
  • the calibration line of Figure 14A and 14B comprises the values of 3,053 x 10 6 g mol 1 , also known as 3.053.000 g mol 1 , 956.000 g mol 1 , 327.300 g mol ⁇ 139.400 g mol ⁇ 74.800 g mol ⁇ 30.230 g mol ⁇ 21.810 g mol ⁇ 10.440 g mol ⁇ 4.730 g mol 1 , 1.920 g mol 1 , 1.320 g mol 1 , 575 g mol 1 .
  • These polymers were used as biodegradable foam substrate for growing plants. It was noted that such substrate provided efficient and effective plant growth, in particularly the growth of the root of the plant.
  • Figure 15 shows a microscopic photo of foam comprising an open cell structure.
  • the foam is provided using the method according to the invention.
  • the average size of the pores is 0.70 mm.
  • the majority of the cells comprise a size which is at least 0.5 times the average size of the pores and at most 2 times the average size of the pores.
  • the sizes of the pores are determined by the open source software ImageJ including Fiji plugin.
  • some additives are provided, such as ultrafine cellulose fibres.
  • C0 2 is used for foaming the mixture.
  • Branching and/or crosslinking agent is provided in the range of between 0 - 4 wt%, preferably 1 wt%.
  • CaC0 3 is used in a range of 2.5 - 3% as an additional filler in the substrate matrix.
  • the substrate in use can have a water uptake of about 20 times the dry weight of the substrate. In use, the substrate showed good fixation possibility and plant root growth potential. After use the material degraded and was optionally composted after which its components were used in the process, thereby contributing to the sustainable character of the biodegradable foam substrate according to the invention.
  • the porosity of the foam is at least 76% comprising a total volume of 2.49 cm 3 g
  • the porosity was determined by mercury intrusion porosimetry over three samples. For the measurement cubes of about 10 x 8 x 8 mm were used. The samples were degassed in vacuum at about 25 °C for about 16 hours. Subsequently, the intrusion and extrusion curves were recorded on a Micrometries Autopore 9505 analyser, applying pressures from 0.002 MPa to 220 MPa. The mass loss obtained upon pre-treatment has been recorded and the dry mass has been used in the calculations.
  • the samples comprise relatively large cubes and re-organisation of (loose) powder particles followed by fulling of inter- particle porosity is not applicable.
  • the fact that at relatively low pressures the intrusion curve of the samples displays substantial intrusion should thus be attributed to the presence and filling of large mZra-particle voids.
  • the intrusion-extrusion curves of the samples are shown in Figure 16 and the properties of the sample are incorporated in Table 1.
  • the intrusion curves is represented by the open marks, and the extrusion curves are represented by the solid marks.
  • the sample of entry 1 comprises a biodegradable foam substrate with a water capacity of 40% and a diameter of the top surface of 25 millimetres.
  • the sample of entry 2 comprises a biodegradable foam substrate with a similar water capacity of 40% and a diameter of the top surface of 25 millimetres.
  • the sample of entry 3 comprises a biodegradable foam substrate with a water capacity of 65% and a diameter of the surface of 20 millimetres.
  • the lower line at 10 MPa relates to entry 2 of Table 1
  • the middle line at 10 MPa relates to entry 3 of Table 1
  • the upper line relates to entry 1 of Table 1.
  • the first intrusion step occurs over a relatively broad pressure range from a pressure of about 0.002 MPa up to approximately 1 MPa where a plateau is reached.
  • a second intrusion step can be seen at a pressure which ranges from about 60 MPa to 220 MPa, this attributes to the elastic compression of the large cubes rather than actual pores. It will be understood that this is the case due to the fact that the extrusion curves are reversible to the intrusion curves, which is not the case when porosity is present.
  • Table 1 Properties samples analysed by mercury porosimetry at a pressure of 60 MPa.
  • the skeletal density of entry 1 of Table 1 has been determined using helium pycnometry and was about 1.26 g cm 3 . It will be understood that the differences could be induced by a high degree of porosity and low sample mass used could result in somewhat inaccurate sample volume, and thus porosity, determinations.
  • FIG 17 The pore size distributions derived from the intrusion curves (Figure 16) are displayed in Figure 17.
  • the lower line at about 300 pm relates to entry 2 of Table 1
  • the middle line at about 300 pm relates to entry 1 of Table 1
  • the upper line at about 300 pm relates to entry 3 of Table 1.
  • the sample of entry 3 comprises a distribution with a very high contribution of similar sized pores, ranging from about 10 pm to about 700 pm with a mode around 265 pm.
  • the distributions of the samples of entry 1 and 2 are slightly broader and lower, while the range of and modes are similar to the sample of entry 3, ranging from about 10 pm to about 700 pm with a mode around 265 pm.
  • the minor contribution noticed at very small pores size can be attributed to the elastic compression of the samples.
  • the three samples mainly comprise large intra particles pores.
  • the intrusion-extrusion curves of further samples are shown in Figure 18 and the properties of the sample are incorporated in Table 2.
  • the intrusion curves is represented by the open marks, and the extrusion curves are represented by the solid marks.
  • the sample of entry 1 comprises a biodegradable foam substrate with a water capacity of 55% and a diameter of the top surface of 23 millimetres.
  • the sample of entry 2 comprises a biodegradable foam substrate with a water capacity of 75% and a diameter of the top surface of 23 millimetres.
  • the lower line at 10 MPa relates to entry 1 of Table 2
  • the upper line relates to entry 2 of Table 2.
  • the samples were prepared as mentioned above.
  • the distributions of the samples show pores ranging from about 5 pm to about 700 pm, and both samples show a mode around 300 pm.
  • the intensity of the distribution of the sample of entry 2 of Table 2 is higher compared to that of the sample entry 1 of Table 2 in the range from about 180 pm to about 700 pm, while the intensity from about 5 pm to about 180 pm shows the opposite trend.
  • the higher initial intensity of the sample entry 2 of Table 2 is responsible for the higher total intruded volume, while the higher intensity of the sample of entry 1 of Table 2 indicates that this sample has a larger contribution of smaller pores. Therefore, it can thus be concluded that both samples mainly comprise large intra particles pores.
  • biodegradable foam substrate according to the invention comprises a foam substrate density a mentioned in Table 3.
  • Table 3 maximum and minimum value biodegradable foam substrate density.
  • PBAT pigment, branching agent and a nucleating agent, wherein the nucleating agent is one or more selected from the group of talc, cellulose, and calcium carbonate, are added to the first zone of the extruder and mixed.
  • the mixture is heated to about 200 °C in order to melt the PBAT, to homogenise the mixture and to react the branching agent and PBAT.
  • an about 70 °C pre -heated surfactant is added to the mixture.
  • the reaction mixture is slowly cooled down and C0 2 is injected.
  • the mixture is mixed using a static mixer and is provided to the die. As a result a continuous open cell foam substrate is achieved.
  • the present invention is by no means limited to the above described preferred embodiments and/or experiments thereof. The rights sought are defined by the following claims within the scope of which many modifications can be envisaged.

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  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Environmental Sciences (AREA)
  • Cultivation Of Plants (AREA)
  • Cultivation Receptacles Or Flower-Pots, Or Pots For Seedlings (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un substrat en mousse (102) destiné à la culture de plantes, le substrat en mousse (102) étant conçu sous forme de godet (28, 29, 2, 64), un procédé de fabrication d'un godet (28, 29, 2, 64) destiné à la culture de plantes et un procédé de culture de plantes à l'aide du substrat en mousse (102) conçu sous forme de godet (28, 29, 2, 64). L'invention concerne le substrat en mousse (102) destiné à la culture de plantes, le substrat en mousse (102) étant conçu sous forme de godet (28, 29, 2, 64) comprenant : une surface supérieure (4) ; une surface inférieure (6) ; et au moins quatre parois latérales (8), s'étendant sur une hauteur entre la surface supérieure (4) et une surface inférieure (6), la surface supérieure (4) comprenant un évidement (10, 16, 202), et la surface inférieure (6) comprenant une entaille (12, 30) qui s'étend de la surface inférieure (6) dans le sens de la hauteur du godet (28, 29, 2, 64) à la surface supérieure (4).
EP20786089.1A 2019-10-01 2020-10-01 Substrat en mousse destiné à la culture de plantes, le substrat en mousse étant conçu sous forme de godet, et procédé de fabrication d'un tel godet Pending EP4037470A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NL2023929A NL2023929B1 (en) 2019-10-01 2019-10-01 Foam substrate for growing plants wherein the foam substrate is configured as a plug, and method for manufacturing of such plug
PCT/NL2020/050607 WO2021066651A1 (fr) 2019-10-01 2020-10-01 Substrat en mousse destiné à la culture de plantes, le substrat en mousse étant conçu sous forme de godet, et procédé de fabrication d'un tel godet

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EP4037470A1 true EP4037470A1 (fr) 2022-08-10

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WO2023239949A1 (fr) * 2022-06-09 2023-12-14 Cruz Foam, Inc. Milieux et procédés de croissance de plantes

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US3877172A (en) * 1973-02-26 1975-04-15 Semperit Ag Foamed plastic profile member for hydroponic cultivation and growth of plants
US4175355A (en) * 1974-05-29 1979-11-27 Gravi-Mechanics Co. Rooting media and methods of making the same
NL9300128A (nl) * 1993-01-22 1994-08-16 Rockwool Grodan Bv Substraatblok met vloeistofopvangmiddelen.
ES2195271T3 (es) * 1998-06-05 2003-12-01 Piet W Houtepen Composicion solida de substrato.
DK2326162T3 (da) * 2008-09-03 2014-04-28 Grow Tech Llc Biopolymerbaserede vækstmedier og metoder til fremstilling og brug af samme
KR101210850B1 (ko) * 2012-01-31 2012-12-18 김현철 종자발아 및 재배용 스펀지
KR101570978B1 (ko) * 2013-11-18 2015-11-24 (주)유양디앤유 수경재배용 모종판
NL2018354B1 (en) * 2017-02-10 2018-09-04 Duemmen Group Bv A rooting plug and a container

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