Biodegradable Mulching Films for Sustainable Agriculture
05.05.2025
Sirmax introduces biodegradable BioComp® mulching films for agriculture. A study by the University of Turin confirms the films' effectiveness in controlling weeds without leaving microplastics in the soil, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional solutions.
BioComp® Mulching Films Pass Open-Field Trials with Success
Sirmax Group, a leading producer of thermoplastic compounds based in Cittadella (Padua), Italy, has successfully validated its biodegradable BioComp® mulching films through independent open-field testing. The company, traditionally active in sectors such as automotive, electronics, and construction, is now expanding into agriculture with a strong focus on sustainability.
The mulching films are made from BioComp®, a material certified as biodegradable in soil according to EN 17033:2018-3. Used primarily to control weed growth in orchards, vineyards, and vegetable fields, these films offer an eco-conscious alternative to conventional plastics, addressing the urgent issue of microplastic contamination in agricultural soils.
Independent Study by the University of Turin
To validate the real-world performance of BioComp®, Sirmax partnered with the University of Turin in a comparative study analysing biodegradable mulching films from multiple manufacturers.
Key findings from the tests, conducted over one year at the university’s Carmagnola experimental centre, include:
- Effective weed suppression throughout the crop cycle
- No significant impact on crop yield compared to chemically or non-weeded controls
- Reduction in micro-bioplastic concentration in the soil within six months post-harvest, suggesting full biodegradation over time
Further testing is scheduled to reinforce these promising results.
Industry and Academia Collaborate for Sustainable Innovation
Alberto Zanon, Head of the BioComp® Division at Sirmax Group, states:
"We aimed to provide solid scientific evidence supporting a product that contributes to more sustainable natural resource management in agriculture. BioComp® is a viable, biodegradable alternative that meets practical performance requirements while reducing soil pollution."
Francesco Ferrero, scientific coordinator of the project at the University of Turin, adds:
"Our interdisciplinary approach assessed not only agronomic performance but also soil biodiversity and the behaviour of biodegradable plastics. The collaboration between Sirmax and academia demonstrates the power of industry-research partnerships in fostering sustainable innovation."