Manufacturing a Biodegradable Container for Planting Plants Based on an Innovative Wood-Polymer Composite

The use of wood-polymer composites (WPC) based on a polymer matrix and wood filler is a modern, environmentally friendly direction in material science. However, untreated wood filler exhibits poor adhesion to hydrophobic polymers due to its hydrophilic lignocellulose fibers. To address this, ozone treatment is employed to enhance compatibility, reduce water absorption, and regulate biodegradation rates. This study investigates the hypothesis that ozone modification of wood filler improves adhesion to thermoplastic starch, thereby enhancing the physico-mechanical properties and controlled biodegradation of WPCs under compost conditions. A comprehensive analysis was conducted on composites containing untreated and ozonated wood flour, focusing on tensile strength, bending resistance, impact strength, and biodegradation kinetics. Results showed significant improvements in mechanical properties for modified composites: tensile strength increased by 20%–25%, bending resistance by 15%–30%, and impact strength by 15%–20% compared to untreated samples. The optimal composition identified contained 70% ozonated wood flour and 30% thermoplastic starch (70WF/30P), demonstrating excellent mechanical strength (flexural strength of 18–22 MPa), complete biodegradation within 140 days, and operational stability. The study revealed correlations between surface modification, interphase interaction, and biodegradation kinetics, advancing fundamental knowledge of lignocellulosic filler modification methods. These findings are crucial for developing eco-friendly composite materials with applications in biodegradable packaging and agricultural products, offering both scientific insights and practical solutions for sustainable material development.