Coordinated Degradation Testing of Verdiflex Bio-Tube in Laboratory and Field Conditions
Following the approval of the STCB project, Alldrain has initiated the various activities in both the laboratory and in the field.
First, the biopolymer tubes (Humicur from B4Plastics) were extruded and perforated, after which they were wrapped with sisal and PLA.
These bio-tubes have now been delivered to Barth Drainage and Hydrus Ecosystems. These partners have begun installing bio-tubes across various plots. The coordinates are being carefully recorded so that we can conduct visual inspections of the tubes in different soil types at a later stage.
The visual inspection of the various locations will take place later using an endoscopic camera, documenting the visual differences compared to the PVC benchmark on the same plots.
In addition to the field tests, Alldrain is also having the biopolymers tested at laboratory level. All materials (including two soil types from the Belgian Soil Service) have been delivered to OWS-Normec in Ghent. The disintegration tests have been initiated, and the biodegradation tests (CO₂ measurement at nano level) will follow shortly.
Below are the initial findings from the disintegration test after 6 weeks:
Finally, we have also started the production of a stop-motion film to visually demonstrate the application and degradation of our bio-tubes, thereby helping to build momentum in the materials transition!
