ECOBIONET - added value biodegradable and compostable nets

The main outcomes of ECOBIONET project are added value biodegradable and compostable nets. These nets have similar characteristics to the traditional ones. Moreover, they are eco-friendly and have a competitive price. The table below compares the main features of the bio-nets developed in the project with traditional ones. Both visual and mechanical similarities - such as tensile test on each kind of net - are available.

Material

Tensile strength (N)

Elongation at break (%)

Appearance

NON ORIENTED NETS

Traditional

8.5-9.5

560-580

Compostable

23-24

560-585

ORIENTED NETS

Traditional

14.5-15.5

145-155

Compostable

16.5-17.5

330-350

NETS FOR SHELLFISH PRODUCTS

Traditional

32-34

170-180

Compostable

34-35

50-55

First, the table displays mechanical properties for each type of traditional net. The characteristics are different due to the compounds, the weight of targeted products – i.e. the ones to be packaged – and the specific process for manufacturing each net. Therefore, biodegradable compounds have been tailored to meet the properties of corresponding traditional ones.
Second, according to the tables data, the mechanical properties of the tested nets (i.e. oriented, non-oriented nets and nets for shellfish products) have been improved with regard to traditional ones. The tensile strength is higher in biodegradable materials, which implies more resistance. Regarding the elongation at break, the results are sufficient enough to meet the requirement of every type of net: supporting the stress suffered during the package process and the final storage.

Finally, regarding the appearance of the developed bio-nets, although the threads of the biodegradable nets are slightly thinner than those of common nets, it is virtually impossible for customers to differentiate them. . Therefore, bio-nets are visually very similar to traditional nets and offer even enhanced mechanical properties.