LDPE mulch film increases yield and improves N-cycling in comparison to biodegradable mulch film or no-mulch film application

The majority of short- and long-term effects and fate of conventional and biodegradable plastic films in soil are still undetermined. The aim of this field experiment is to compare the effects of conventional (LDPE) and biodegradable (PLA/PBAT blend) mulch film on soil and crop health, whilst also looking at the degradation of the plastic films and the potential microplastic contamination of the soil.Maize (Zea mays L.) was grown to harvest under both films and without any film for a duration of four months. To determine the effect of plastic mulch film usage on nitrogen use efficiency, 15N fertiliser was applied at the beginning of the experiment. The key soil measurements included moisture content, soil temperature, microbial diversity (16S), plastic contamination and 15N recovery. The key plant measurements included biomass, chlorophyll content, nutrient content and 15N uptake. The degradation of the films was determined by monthly visual assessment and the use of ATR-FTIR.