INFRASTRUCTURE AND METHOD FOR THERMAL TREATMENT OF SOIL

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a process for thermal treatment of soil and to an infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil, as well as an apparatus for forming and deploying the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil.

Background Art

[0002] In agriculture, pest control can involve the use of gaseous pesticides in order to control or eradicate pests potentially harmful to plants. The process of using gaseous pesticides is commonly referred to as fumigation and is also applicable to pest control in buildings (e.g. structural fumigation), soil, grain, and produce, and during processing of goods to be imported or exported. Fumigation typically involves the use of hazardous gaseous pesticides and may include release of a fumigant into an area or space to be fumigated and allowing the fumigant to act on the area or space treated. Subsequently, the fumigant needs to be allowed to disperse sufficiently, for example by ventilation.

[0003] The gaseous pesticides used in fumigation are typically hazardous

pesticides that require careful handling. Stringent regulations concerning the use of such pesticides and the requirement for corresponding specialized handling render fumigation increasingly difficult and costly. Additionally, it may be difficult to target the fumigants towards particular pests and/or organisms, so that fumigation can have a generally detrimental effect on soil fertility because useful microorganisms necessary or beneficial for agricultural purposes may be adversely affected in the process. Further, the disposal of organic waste has become an increasingly important issue for many municipalities, which have to spend substantial amounts of money on the disposal of such waste, in addition to the obviously negative impact on environmental, health, and safety issues related to landfill and other modes of disposal.

[0004] Alternatives to fumigation include solarization or usage of steam or heating plates. These alternatives are typically less efficient and/or require relatively high amounts of energy. Therefore, their application may be problematic in regions having lower mean temperatures and/or located relatively remote from suitable energy sources. Further, sustained application of heat over extended periods of time is typically not economical.

[0005] WO 2015/020787 describes a bag constructed of a weed suppression material for packaging a ground cover material. When the bag is in a closed configuration, the bag serves as a container for shipping, handling, and storage of the ground cover material. When the bag is opened and unfolded, and the ground cover material within the bag is spread over the opened and unfolded bag, the bag serves as a layer of weed suppression material on top of underlying soil and beneath the ground cover. In addition, the bag may be used for planting individual plants in a planting bed, for establishing a buffer zone around the foundation of a building, or for controlling erosion around a downspout of a building.

[0006] EP 2352602 A1 describes a method of biological soil decontamination using a protein source added to the soil in the amount of 0.5-50 grams per liter of soil and application of a barrier layer between the soil and air. The barrier layer preferably has an oxygen transmission rate (OTR) no more than 2000 ml/m ² /hr to 1400 ml/m ² /hr to reduce the oxygen content of air in the soil under the barrier layer to at most 2 vol. % within 2 days.

[0007] CA 2,624,386 describes a bag made of geotextile landscape fabric that can be unfolded in order to be used as a mat of landscape fabric covered with mulch to create a vegetation barrier. The bag includes an easy to open fastener means located at the outer edges of a sheet of landscape fabric. The fastener means fastens a first portion of the landscape sheet to a second portion of the landscape sheet to form the inner cavity of a bag which is large enough to contain the appropriate amount of mulch to cover the sheet when unfolded into a mat. [0008] DE 2010 6875 U1 describes a mulching and planting base including a mulching mat or sheet, the lowest layer of which is made of a

biodegradable material like hemp, recycled cotton, flax, or wool, and which is turned into compost after a certain time. A second layer is either positioned on top of the biodegradable base or underneath, and is made of a light-proof bio foil. The top layer, made of coconut fibers, is joined with both layers by stitching, each of the resulting small holes serving as a water duct, but too small for weeds to penetrate. Slots for the insertion of plants can be provided. The mats or sheets can be used as a soil cover in landscaping and are particularly suitable for sloping roadsides. The device is only of a limited flammability, it is ecologically friendly, not light permeable, and easy to transport and store.

[0009] BE 1019816A3 describes a natural dynamic process and biodegradable mulch for mild, natural fertilization, limiting the growth of weeds, and allowing for temperature regulation of the soil. The mulching is composed of organic material introduced into bags made from recycled paper, which are then introduced into a pre-cut bag made from jute material, which is of plant origin and biodegradable. This allows a gradual release of the organic material, either directly or indirectly.

[0010] CN106431622 A describes one kind of biodegradable multi-purpose liquid plant film and its manufacturing method, the multi-purpose liquid plant biodegradable film, according to the quality of raw materials, including the percentage of plant / processing plants were 10-100%, 0-90% grass pest resistance, environmental protection glue 0-30%, 0-30% green powder, auxiliary substances include fertilizers or crop / soil material and nutrients needed, including 0-50% of the raw material according to the respective proportions processed into a thick syrup or liquid form and processed into other types, shapes, family, film and packaging specifications spare, as long as the cover when used in the field can be. Land surface forming a solid mesh versatile film, has excellent insulation, moisture, sun, frost, pest control, anti-soil erosion, disease, weed, breathable, fertility, improve soil compaction sclerosis and other functions. [001 1] CN 102776124 A describes a greenhouse crop planting field, in particular compound microbes for reducing and disinfecting greenhouse soil and a soil disinfection method. The compound microbes comprise bacteria, actinomycetes, saccharomycetes and moulds. The soil disinfection method includes the steps of selecting June to September as a

disinfection period to apply crop straws, organic fertilizer and the compound microbes on the soil after the crops are harvested; deeply plowing soil layers to form small ridges; covering ridge surfaces with plastic film, filling enough water under the film till the soil humidity achieves 100%, and sealing the mulching film and covering the greenhouse plastic film for 20 to 25 days; and uncovering the greenhouse plastic film and removing the mulching film for planting. According to the compound microbes for reducing and disinfecting greenhouse soil and the soil disinfection method, the method is non-toxic, harmless, pollution-free and residue-free, pathogenic bacteria, ova and the like in soil plough layers are killed, soil organics are increased, the soil physical and chemical structure is improved, soil fertility is improved, and good foundation is laid for improving product qualities.

[0012] CN102776124B relates to the field of greenhouse crops, in particular to a greenhouse, greenhouse soil reduction disinfection of complex microbial inoculants and soil disinfection methods, there are many defects existing methods to solve problems, including bacteria, actinomycetes, yeasts, molds hybrid composite microbial agents, sterilizing step for selecting from June to September for the disinfection period, after harvest, spreading straw on the ground, organic fertilizer, compound microbial agents; deep soil layer, made of small Takakuro; plastic film Qimian cover, and then filled in the film of water, soil humidity reaches 100%, sealed plastic film, plastic film covering the greenhouse, closing time is 20-25 days; opened leaked, remove mulch, planting. Is a non-toxic, harmless, no pollution, no residual soil disinfection methods to kill pathogens in the soil plow layer, eggs, etc., increased soil organic matter, improve soil physical and chemical structure and fertility of the soil fertility, to yield improve product quality and lay a good foundation. [0013] EP1074570 and WO96/21692 describe biodegradable polyesters that can be used in accordance with the present invention.

[0014] An aim of the present invention is to provide a process for thermal

treatment of soil. Another aim is to provide an infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil and an apparatus for forming and deploying the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil.

Summary of invention

[0015] According to the invention, in a 1 ^st aspect there is provided an

infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil, comprising a first film, a second film, and organic material distributed between the first film and the second film. The infrastructure is configured to be placed on top of or within soil, such that heat generated within the infrastructure and/or heat collected in the infrastructure is transferred at least partially to the soil the

infrastructure is in contact with.

[0016] In a 2 ^nd aspect according to the 1 ^st aspect, each of the first and second films present a respective surface extension greater than 5 m ² , preferably greater than 10 m ² , more preferably greater than 50 m ² .

[0017] In a 3 ^rd aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the organic material is distributed in a substantially uniform manner between the first and second films and is configured to promote composting and/or to generate heat energy along the entire infrastructure.

[0018] In a 4 ^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the organic material is in the form of a layer comprising at least 50% in weight, preferably at least 90% in weight, more preferably 100% in weight of organic material.

[0019] In a 5 ^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the organic material is in the form of a layer having a thickness greater than 10 mm, preferably between 10 mm and 200 mm, more preferably between 20 mm and 100 mm.

[0020] In a 6 ^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the first film and/or second film is a plastic film. [0021] In a 7 ^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the first film and/or the second film are made from a polymeric biodegradable material. The polymeric biodegradable material optionally includes MATER Bl by Novamont or poly(lactic acid) or polylactic acid or polylactide (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs, e.g. polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB)), or bio polyethylene (PE).

[0022] In an 8 ^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the

organic material includes one or more of 90% in weight of organic waste of vegetal origin, 90% in weight of organic waste of animal origin, and 90% in weight of a mix of organic waste of vegetal origin with organic waste of animal origin.

[0023] In a 9 ^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the organic material comprises a biologically active component configured to accelerate composting and/or generation of heat energy.

[0024] In a 10 ^th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the biologically active component comprises at least one of enzymes and bacteria.

[0025] In an 1 1 ^th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the biologically active component comprises probiotic bacteria, the probiotic bacteria comprising one or more of Actinomycetes, Streptomycetes, Penicillium, Aspergillus Niger, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus subtilis var. natto, Bacillus Thuringiensis, Cereus, Streptococcus, Pumilus,

Pediococcus spp., Enterococcus spp., and Leuconostoc spp.

[0026] In a 12 ^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the

organic waste includes one or more additives configured to control one or more of: a desired balance of microbial mix in the organic material, pests and pathogens in the soil, a moisture content in the organic material. The additives optionally include one or more of enzymes configured to facilitate degradation of brown waste, sugars, and/or nutrients, and hexanal, penthanal, hexenal, or similar aldehydes.

[0027] In a 13 ^th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the first and second films are configured as elongated stripes of plastic material, wherein the length of each stripe is at least 5 times greater that its width. [0028] In a 14 ^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the first and second films are arranged substantially in superimposition with one another in a use configuration of the infrastructure on or within the soil. Additionally or alternatively, the first and second films are configured for deposition on stripes of land. Additionally or alternatively, the first film is configured to have a moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR; evaluated at 38°C and 98 % R.H. according to ASTM D-1249) of between 10 and 1500 g/(m ² -day-atm), preferably of between 100 and 1000 g/(m ² -day-atm), more preferably of between 200 and 900 g/(m ² -day-atm). Additionally or alternatively, the second film is configured to have a transparency to light of between 20% and 100% (e.g. measured using spectrophotometer Jasco V550), more preferably between 40% and 100%, more preferably between 60% and 100%. Additionally or alternatively, the second film is configured to have a moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR; evaluated at 38°C and 98 % R.H. according to ASTM D-1249) of between 10 and 1500 g/(m ² -day-atm), preferably of between 100 and 1000 g/(m ² -day-atm), more preferably of between 200 and 900 g/(m ² -day-atm), the second film optionally being oxygen permeable.

[0029] In a 15 ^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the first and/or second films have respective edges on opposite lateral sides thereof, and the first and/or second films are connected to one another along their respective edges. The connection is optionally made by one or more of stitching, heat sealing, glue, bonding, welding or self welding, sides rolling or wrapping on themselves, pressure or IR or impulse sealing, melting, sun light reactive welding.

[0030] In a 16 ^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, at least a portion of the first film is gas permeable. The first film is optionally gas permeable in its entirety.

[0031] In a 17 ^th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the first film and/or the second film is/are gas permeable in its/their entirety and has/have an OTR (evaluated at 23°C and 0 % R.H. according to ASTM D-3985) greater than 1000 cm ³ /(m ² -day-atm), preferably greater than 6000 cm ³ /(m ² -day-atm), more preferably greater than 10000 cm ³ /(m ² -day-atm), most preferably comprised between 10000 cm ³ /(m ² -day-atnn) and 20000 cm ³ /(m ² -day-atnn). Additionally or alternatively to aspects 16 and 17, at least a portion of the second film is fully or partially transparent to light. Optionally the second film is fully or partially transparent to light in its entirety. Further optionally the second film and/or the first film exhibits/exhibit a transparency to light of between 20% and 100%; preferably between 40% and 100%, more preferably between 60% and 100%

[0032] In an 18 ^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, at least a portion of the first film is provided with one or more openings. Optionally, substantially the entire first film is provided with one or more openings.

[0033] In a 19 ^th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the first film is

perforated and thus presents a plurality of uniformly distributed through openings. The uniformly distributed through openings optionally cover a surface area of between 5% to 50% of the first film, further optionally each of the uniformly distributed through openings has a diameter of between 1 mm and 50 mm.

[0034] In a 20 ^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, at least a portion of the second film is impermeable to liquids. Optionally,

substantially the entire second film is impermeable to liquids.

[0035] In a 21 ^st aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the

infrastructure further includes a supply line positioned between the first and second films and configured to allow for the supply of one or more of nutrients configured to promote growth of plants and/or microorganisms, moisture, liquids, or steam, fertilizer, and enzymes.

[0036] According to the invention, in a 22 ^nd aspect there is provided a process for applying an infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil, comprising providing a first film, providing a second film, providing organic material, and positioning the first film, the second film, and the organic material such as to form or position on the soil the infrastructure of any one of the preceding aspects, whereby heat generated within the infrastructure and/or heat collected in the infrastructure is transferred at least partially to the soil the infrastructure is in contact with. [0037] In a 23 ^rd aspect according to the preceding aspect, the process further comprises a step of removing a top layer of soil from the soil and a step of providing the top layer of soil on the infrastructure after forming or positioning the infrastructure on the soil.

[0038] In a 24 ^th aspect according to aspect 22, the process further comprises placing a fresh layer of soil on the infrastructure after forming or positioning the infrastructure on the soil.

[0039] In a 25 ^th aspect according to any one of aspects 23 or 24, the top layer or the fresh layer have a thickness of between 5 cm and 30 cm, preferably between 10 cm and 25 cm, more preferably of about 20 cm.

[0040] In a 26 ^th aspect according to any one of aspects 22 to 25, the first film is configured to receive the organic material and the second film is configured to cover the organic material.

[0041] In a 27 ^th aspect according to any one of aspects 22 to 26, the step of positioning the first film, the second film, and the organic material comprises the sub-steps of placing the first film on the soil, supplying the organic material on the first film, and placing the second film on the organic material.

[0042] In a 28 ^th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the sub-steps are

substantially performed in a single combined step at substantially the same time.

[0043] In a 29 ^th aspect according to any one of aspects 22 to 28, the process further comprises the step of pre-treating the soil prior to placing the infrastructure The pre-treating optionally includes one or more of planarization of the soil, aeration of the soil, and shaping the soil.

[0044] In a 30 ^th aspect according to any one of aspects 22 to 29, the process further comprises providing edges of the first and second films with a connection configured to fixedly attach the edges to one another. The connection includes one or more of stitching, heat sealing, glue, bonding, welding or self welding, sides rolling or wrapping on themselves, pressure or IR or impulse sealing, melting, sun light reactive welding.

[0045] In a 31 ^st aspect according to any one of aspects 22 to 30, the step of providing the organic material comprises providing the organic material in the form of a layer comprising at least 50% in weight, preferably at least 90% in weight, more preferably 100% in weight of organic material.

[0046] In a 32 ^nd aspect according to any one of aspects 22 to 31 , the step of providing the organic material comprises forming a layer of organic material having a thickness greater than 10 mm, preferably between 10 mm and 200 mm, more preferably between 20 mm and 100 mm.

[0047] In a 33 ^rd aspect according to any one of aspects 22 to 32, the process further comprises leaving the infrastructure in place for a first time period configured to allow the organic material to reach a heat treatment temperature of 40°C or more, preferably 50°C or more, more preferably between 60°C and 70°C.

[0048] In a 34 ^th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the first time period is greater than 1 hour, preferably between 1 hour and 24 hours, more preferably between 2 hours and 6 hours.

[0049] In a 35 ^th aspect according to any one of aspects 22 to 34, the process further comprises leaving the infrastructure in place for a second time period configured to allow for thermal treatment of the soil by heat transferred from the organic material to the soil.

[0050] In a 36 ^th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the second time period is greater than 1 week, preferably between 1 week and 12 weeks, more preferably between 3 weeks and 6 weeks.

[0051] According to the invention, in a 37 ^th aspect there is provided an apparatus for the formation and deposition of an infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil, preferably according to any one of aspects 1 to 21. The apparatus comprises a first means for supplying the first film, a second means for supplying the second film, a third means for dispensing organic material, and a control unit operably coupled to the first, second, and third means and configured to control operation of the first, second, and third means.

[0052] In a 38 ^th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the apparatus further comprises one or more of a first cutting means configured to cut the first film, a second cutting means configured to cut the second film, and a grinding unit configured to provide the organic material dispensed from the third means with a desired granularity. [0053] According to the invention, in a 39 ^th aspect there is provided a process for formation and deposition of an infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil, preferably according to any one of aspects 1 to 21. The process makes use of the apparatus according to one of aspects 37 or 38. The process comprises the steps of controlling, by the control unit, the first means to supply the first film on the soil, controlling, by the control unit, the second means to supply the second film in order to define a volume between the first and second films, controlling, by the control unit, the third means to supply the organic material to the volume defined between the first and second films, controlling a means for moving the apparatus to advance the apparatus over the soil.

[0054] In a 40 ^th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the process further comprises providing edges of the first and second films with a connection configured to fixedly attach the edges to one another. The connection includes one or more of stitching, heat sealing, glue, bonding, and welding or self welding, sides rolling or wrapping on themselves, pressure or IR or impulse sealing, melting, sun light reactive welding.

[0055] In a 41 ^st aspect according to any one of aspects 39 and 40, the process further comprises controlling, by the control unit, the third means to supply the organic material at a rate suitable for forming a substantially

continuous layer of organic material between the first and second films having a thickness of greater than 10 mm, preferably between 10 mm and 200 mm, more preferably between 20 mm and 100 mm.

[0056] Advantages of the process for thermal treatment of soil, the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil, and/or the apparatus for forming and deploying the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil include that the treatment of soil can be performed without the use of potentially hazardous substances and in a biologically and environmentally friendly manner.

[0057] Further advantages of the process for thermal treatment of soil, the

infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil, and/or the apparatus for forming and deploying the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil include that the treatment of soil may be performed in a very cost-effective manner and/or without the use of substantial amounts of resources and/or energy.

[0058] Further advantages of the process for thermal treatment of soil, the

infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil, and/or the apparatus for forming and deploying the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil include that the treatment of soil may be performed based on the use of organic waste readily available and otherwise going into landfills, unused. This also entails that costs for disposal of such organic waste is reduced or eliminated.

[0059] Further advantages of the process for thermal treatment of soil, the

infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil, and/or the apparatus for forming and deploying the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil include that the treatment of soil leads to the quality of the soil being improved, for example based on beneficial microorganisms being retained in the soil and/or the soil being enriched with the organic waste material (e.g. in the form of compost). This entails that the problem of soil infertility is reduced or eliminated.

[0060] Further advantages of the process for thermal treatment of soil, the

infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil, and/or the apparatus for forming and deploying the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil include that the treatment of soil leads to the quality of the environment around the soil (the whole ecosystem) being improved, for example based on the beneficial effect of the balanced microorganism equilibrium that will lead to reduction of smells and spoiled organic matter, normally source and facilitator of insects (e.g. mosquitos) or proliferation of infestations.

[0061] Further advantages of the process for thermal treatment of soil, the

infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil, and/or the apparatus for forming and deploying the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil include that the need for additional pest control or fertilizers is reduced or eliminated.

[0062] Further advantages of the process for thermal treatment of soil, the

infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil, and/or the apparatus for forming and deploying the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil include that the occurrences of soil-borne diseases are reduced or eliminated.

Brief description of drawings

[0063] FIG. 1 shows a longitudinal cross section of an infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0064] FIG. 2 shows a lateral cross section of the infrastructure for thermal

treatment of soil shown in FIG. 1 ;

[0065] FIG. 3 shows a flow chart illustrating a process for thermal treatment of soil in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0066] FIGs. 3A to 3D show schematic cross sections of the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil and of the soil to be treated in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

[0067] FIGs. 4A to 4D show schematic cross sections of the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil and of the soil to be treated in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

[0068] FIG. 5 shows a schematic cross section of an apparatus forming and

deploying the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil in accordance with embodiments of the present invention; and

[0069] FIG. 6 shows a flow chart illustrating a process for forming and deploying the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

Detailed Description

[0070] FIG. 1 shows a longitudinal cross section of an infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention. The infrastructure 100 for thermal treatment of soil includes a biodegradable film 106, a layer of organic waste material 104, and a biodegradable film 102. The organic waste material 104 is configured to promote the creation of compost and may include solid and/or grinded organic waste. The organic waste material 104, or mulch, may include waste of vegetal origin and/or of animal origin, or a mixture thereof. The organic waste material 104 may be provided in solid or grinded form and may be mixed according to the individual application, for example depending on the soil to be treated, the plants to be cultivated on the soil, climatic factors, etc. Individual examples for organic waste material 104 suitable for particular applications are described further below. In some embodiments, the first and/or second films are non-biodegradable.

[0071] As used herein, the term "biodegradable" refers to films, polymers or

products that have the ability to break down, safely and relatively quickly, by biological means, into the raw materials of nature and disappear into the environment. These products can be solids biodegrading into the soil (which are also referred to as compostable), or liquids biodegrading into water. Biodegradable plastic is intended to break up when exposed to microorganisms.

[0072] The films 102 and/or 106 are biodegradable films, consisting of at least 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 99% or of 100% by weight of biodegradable polymers. Biodegradable polymers are selected from the group of polysaccharides, (co)polyesters and their blends. Examples of suitable polysaccharides are starches, preferably potato starches and their derivatives. Examples of suitable biodegradable polyesters are

polycaprolactone (PCL), polyhydroxybutyrate, polylactic acid esters or copolyesters of 1 ,4 butanediol, adipic acid and terephthalic acid, in particular is statistical, aliphatic-aromatic co-polyester of the monomers 1 ,4-butanediol, adipic acid, and a terephthalic acid named Ecoflex. Other examples of suitable biodegradable polyesters include MATER Bl by Novamont or poly(lactic acid) or polylactic acid or polylactide (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs, e.g. polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB)), or bio polyethylene (PE)

[0073] Particularly preferred biodegradable polymers are polycaprolactone, a coPET (copolyester of 1 ,4 butanediol, adipic acid and terephthalic acid) named Ecoflex F Blend C1200 (BASF), a starch-based polymer named BioPar® (Biopolymer Technologies) and the potato starch derivative Bioplast GF 106/02 (Biotec). The biodegradable films 102 and 106 according to the present invention include monolayer or multilayer films, preferably multilayer films. In case of a monolayer film, the biodegradable polymer may comprise for instance Bioplast GF106 (Biotec).

[0074] As used herein, the term "polyester" refers to homopolymers or

copolymers (also known as "copolyesters") having an ester linkage between monomer units which may be formed, for example, by

condensation polymerization reactions of lactones or by polymerization of dicarboxylic acid(s) and glycol(s). With the term "(co)polyesters" both homo and copolymers are intended.

[0075] As used herein, the term "polymer" refers to the product of a

polymerization reaction, and is inclusive of homo-polymers, and copolymers. As used herein, the term "homo-polymer" is used with reference to a polymer resulting from the polymerization of a single type of monomer, i.e., a polymer consisting essentially of a single type of mer, i.e., repeating unit. As used herein, the term "co-polymer" refers to polymers formed by the polymerization reaction of at least two different types of monomers. For example, the term "co-polymer" includes the co- polymerization reaction product of ethylene and an alpha -olefin, such as 1 -hexene. When used in generic terms the term "copolymer" is also inclusive of, for example, ter-polymers. The term "co-polymer" is also inclusive of random co-polymers, block co-polymers, and graft copolymers.

[0076] As used herein, "compost" is understood as including organic matter that has been substantially decomposed (or recycled, e.g. as a fertilizer and soil amendment). Generally, the process of composting is understood to require providing organic matter or green waste (e.g. leaves, food waste, etc.; preferably containing a sufficient amount of humidity) and allowing for the materials to break down into humus, typically within a period of weeks or months. Modern, methodical composting may be a multi-step, closely monitored process with carefully selected supply of water, air, and/or carbon- and/or nitrogen-rich materials. The process may benefit from shredding the organic matter in order to provide the matter in a desired granularity, by adding water, and/or by ensuring proper aeration by regularly moving or stirring the mixture. Small animals (e.g. worms) or insects and fungi may further break up the material. Bacteria requiring oxygen to function (aerobic bacteria) and fungi may benefit the chemical process by converting the inputs into heat, carbon dioxide and ammonium. The ammonium (NH ₄ ) may take the form of nitrogen used by plants. When available, ammonium is not used by plants it may further be converted by bacteria into nitrates (NO3) through the process of nitrification. Compost is typically rich in nutrients. It may be used in gardens, landscaping, horticulture, and agriculture. The compost itself is beneficial for the land in several ways, including as a soil conditioner, a fertilizer, addition of vital humus or humic acids, and as a natural pesticide for soil. In ecosystems, compost may be useful for erosion control, land and stream reclamation, wetland construction, and as landfill cover. Organic ingredients intended for composting can alternatively be used to generate biogas through anaerobic digestion.

[0077] In some embodiments, the organic waste material 104 has a substantially granular or otherwise tricklable form that allows for arranging the organic waste material 104 in a substantially even and continuous layer. The layer of organic waste material 104 may have a thickness of more than 10 mm, preferably between about 10 mm and about 200mm, more preferably between about 20 mm and 100 mm. In some embodiments, the organic material is in the form of a layer comprising at least 50% in weight, preferably at least 90% in weight, more preferably 100% in weight of organic material. In some embodiments, the organic material 104 includes one or more of 90% in weight of organic waste of vegetal origin, 90% in weight of organic waste of animal origin, 90% in weight of a mix of organic waste of vegetal origin with organic waste of animal origin.

[0078] In some embodiments, the organic material comprises a biologically active component configured to accelerate composting and generation of heat energy. The biologically active component may include enzymes and/or bacteria. The biologically active component may include probiotic bacteria, starting from a mix ad hoc studied for the organic waste mix selected.

Subsequently, the percentages will change due to the live bacteria. For example, a suitable mixture is of comparable amount (i.e. 1 : 1 among them) of Actinomycetes and Streptomycetes, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae, Bacillus Subtilis, Pumilus, Cereus, Thuringiensins and other Bacillus Species, Pediococcus spp., Enterococcus spp, Leuconostoc spp, and Aspergillus Niger. A minor change in relative % may be required when selecting a customer waste mix that is richer in green or brown parts. It is known that Bacillus species such as Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus subtilis var. natto, and Bacillus thuringiensis can rapidly decompose any type of organic waste, including animal dung, raw garbage and sewage sludge. As these aerobic bacteria require the presence of oxygen to live and grow they will be the first to act over green parts and other easily accessible waste, while the environment is still aerobic. Lactic-acid bacteria, including Lactobacillus spp., Enterococcus spp., Lactococcus spp., Pediococcus spp. and Leuconostoc spp., can work rapidly to decompose plant material and any type of organic waste in facultively anaerobic conditions. Bacterial species in this group prefer a more anaerobic condition to decompose organic waste that is rich in carbohydrate and sometimes work together with yeast species such as Saccharomyces spp. and

Schizosaccharomyces spp. Subsequently, temperatures within the material typically rise to ranges exceeding 60 °C to 70 °C and activate thermophilic composting. Actinomycetous species - including

Actinoplanes spp., Ampullariella spp., Dactylosporangium spp. and

Streptomyces spp. - play an important role in the decomposition of any type of organic waste, particularly oil, fat, and plant cell walls containing lignin, latex and chitin. The final action of molds and mushrooms like Aspergillus and Penicillium is important to speed up the degradation of the organic material and producing substances that are also antimicrobial and, thus, able to repel parasites, insects, and bad smells.

As shown, the biodegradable film 102 may be provided as a bottom layer, configured to separate the organic waste material 104 from the soil 60 to be treated (not shown). The biodegradable film 102 may be configured to allow for or otherwise promote minimum oxygenation needed for aerobic bacteria present in the soil 60 and/or the organic waste material 104. To this aim, the biodegradable film 102 may include holes, openings, or perforation configured to enable a desired degree of oxygenation. In some embodiments, a perforation is provided containing between 5 and 50% of holes per area of film. Holes can be with diameter of 1 to 50 mm in order also to guarantee proper moisture retention or loss depending on waste material and environmental conditions. Holes can be achieved at converting or made directly and customized to the application by the deposition machinery (e.g. by special tools attached to an agricultural vehicle) In some embodiments, oxygenation properties of the

biodegradable film 102 allow for a minimum of about 5% oxygenation is guaranteed inside the created bag.

[0080] In some embodiments, the biodegradable film 102 exhibits an oxygen transmission rate (OTR), evaluated at 23°C and 0 % R.H. according to ASTM D-3985, of greater than 100 cm ³ /(m ² -day-atm). In preferred embodiments, the biodegradable film 102 exhibits an OTR of greater than 6000 cm ³ /(m ² -day-atm), more preferably greater than 10000

cm ³ /(m ² -day-atm), most preferably comprised between 10000

cm ³ /(m ² -day-atm) and 20000 cm ³ /(m ² -day-atm).

[0081] As shown, the biodegradable film 106 may be provided as a top layer, configured to cover the organic waste material 104 and/or to protect it against environmental influences (e.g. wind, rain, etc.). The biodegradable film 106 is typically not perforated and not transparent, configured to retain heat received by sunlight (but not the direct UVA and UVB light) in order to partly regulate the temperature of the underlying organic waste material 104 and/or the temperature of the soil 60 to be treated. Soil 60 is shown, for example, in FIGs. 3A et seq. It is typically possible to use a perforated top film, if a higher oxygenation is needed. This is typically required in dry climates or inside covered greenhouses.

[0082] Biodegradable films 102 and/or 106 may be made from polymeric plastic material including MATER Bl, or PLA, commercially available from

Novamont and BioBag. Proper additives maybe added to films mentioned, expecially PLA, if higher thermal resistance is needed (for instance

Biostrength® 700 from Arkema). Films 102 and 106 may be made from different materials, also PHA, PHB, bio LLDPE, in order to optimize respective properties (e.g. heat retention, oxygenation; see above).

[0083] In some embodiments, each of the biodegradable films 102 and 106

presents a respective surface extension greater than 5 m ² , preferably greater than 10 m ² , preferably greater than 50 m ² . The biodegradable films 102 and 106 may be provided as elongated stripes of polymeric plastic material, wherein the length of each stripe is at least 5 times greater that its width. In some embodiments, the stripes may have a width of up to 1500 mm, preferably up to 1200 mm, more preferably of between 800 mm and 1200 mm. The biodegradable films 102 and 106 are typically arranged substantially in superimposition with one another.

[0084] FIG. 2 shows a lateral cross section of the infrastructure for thermal

treatment of soil shown in FIG. 1. The infrastructure 100 for thermal treatment of soil is typically provided in form of a three-layer band longitudinally extending over an area of soil to be treated. FIG. 2 shows a lateral cross section of the infrastructure 100 in which the biodegradable films 102 and 106 are joined at both sides 105 of the infrastructure 100. In the embodiment shown, the films 102 and 106 are joined, which can be achieved, for example by bonding, heat sealing, gluing, stitching, or any other suitable means. In other embodiments, however, the films 102 and 106 need not be joined or otherwise connected. In some embodiments, films 102 and 106 are merely placed against one another, in yet other embodiments, films 102 and 106 are separated by organic waste material 104 at their respective edges 105 so that they are not in contact with one another, not permanently in contact with one another, or only partially in contact with one another.

[0085] In preferred embodiments, films 102 and 106 are joined at their respective edges 105 or kept in close contact by pressure of a ground layer placed above. This may improve control over the processes taking place within the infrastructure 100, including heat, oxygen, and/or moisture retention, composting, etc. For example, in such preferred embodiments the supply of oxygen and/or water, or the retention thereof, as well as the

temperature of the organic waste material 104 may potentially be regulated more accurately with respective edges 105 of films 102 and 106 being joined together as shown in FIG. 2.

[0086] The organic waste material 104 is selected and configured to promote composting at temperatures of up to 60-70°C. Organic waste can be a mixture of food waste, yard waste, or agricultural waste, in addition to soil in the field. The carbon:nitrogen (C:N) ratio of these waste varies greatly. For example, the C:N ratio for corn stovers is 75: 1 , while livestock manure is 15: 1 and wood chips are 400: 1. The correct mixture is needed to reach a 25-30:1 ratio (C:N) for anaerobic activity by the bacteria, and heating of the organic matter or soil amended with organic matter. Further, the infrastructure 100 is configured and positioned to enable thermal energy from the organic waste material 104, from heat retained from sunlight and/or ambient air, and/or from processes taking place within the infrastructure 100 to be transferred to the soil 60 to be treated. In some embodiments, the infrastructure 100 is placed on the soil 60 to be treated. This can enable the infrastructure 100 to receive and transfer heat retained from sun radiation and/or from the ambient atmosphere to the soil 60 to be treated. In other embodiments, the infrastructure is positioned at a selected depth within the soil 60 to be treated (e.g. at about 20 cm depth). This can enable the infrastructure 100 to transfer heat from composting taking place within the organic waste material 104 to the soil 60 to be treated in a more efficient manner, for example on both the top and bottom side of the infrastructure 100.

[0087] The organic waste material 104 may be provided with additives of one or more kinds. Such additives may be configured to sterilize the organic waste material 104 and/or the soil 60. Other additives may be configured to control the growth of molds or to regulate pests. Additives are designed to evaporate after a selected period of time and/or after they have fulfilled their purpose. Examples for such additives include, but are not limited to, Hexenale and Hexanale C6 carbon aldehyde. Additives are preferably approved in food production.

[0088] FIG. 3 shows a flow chart illustrating a process for thermal treatment of soil in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention. The process 300 for thermal treatment of soil 60 starts at step 302. At this step, it is assumed that the soil 60 to be treated has already undergone any pre-treatment necessary for application of the infrastructure 100, for example including, but not limited to, planarization, furrowing, or any other agricultural treatment commonly used. At step 304, the soil 60 to be treated is provided with a first biodegradable film 102. It may be beneficial if the top layer of the soil 60 to be treated has undergone planarization, although this is not required for application of the infrastructure 100. At step 306, organic waste material 104 (e.g. mulch) is provided to the first biodegradable film 102. In some embodiments, the organic waste material 104 is provided in a suitable granular form that allows for a substantially even and continuous layer of more than 10 mm, preferably between about 10 mm and about 200 mm, more preferably between about 20 mm and 100 mm, to be formed on the first biodegradable film 102. In other embodiments, the layer of organic waste material 104 may be thicker or thinner, depending upon the individual application and/or environmental factors. The organic waste material 104 may optionally undergo

planarization, for example to evenly distribute the material 104 and/or to provide the material 104 with a smooth top surface. At step 308, the second biodegradable film 106 is provided on top of the layer of organic waste material 104. Optionally, respective edges 105 (see FIG. 2) of the first and second layers 102 and 106 may be joined together in a suitable manner (see above). Subsequently, during step 310, composting of the organic waste material 104 and/or heat treatment of the soil 60 is allowed to take place. This step may take anywhere from about 10 days to 1 year, as desired and/or depending upon the individual application and/or environmental factors. At step 312, the agricultural use of the soil 60 may proceed, for example by planting crops. It is noted that the planting of crops, i.e. step 312, may partially or entirely overlap with step 310, so that even when composting is still ongoing, planting can proceed. The process 300 ends at step 314.

FIGs. 3A to 3D show schematic cross sections of the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil and of the soil to be treated in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 3A shows the soil 60 to be treated at a stage before process 300 (see above) starts. The soil 60 to be treated may be pre-treated in a manner as described above or be subjected to the thermal treatment without such pre-treatment.

[0090] FIG. 3B shows the soil 60 to be treated at a stage after step 304 of

process 300 (see above), when the first biodegradable film 102 is provided to the soil 60 to be treated. The first biodegradable film 102 may

substantially follow the contours of the soil 60 to be treated or be provided in a manner spreading over the soil 60 to be treated substantially evenly (as shown in FIG. 3B). In some embodiments, the supply of the first biodegradable film 102 may be combined with a process for planarization of the soil 60 to be treated, for example using a roller or other suitable tool in order to smoothen the top surface of the soil 60 to be treated.

[0091] FIG. 3C shows the soil 60 to be treated at a stage after step 306 of

process 300 (see above), when the organic waste material 104 has been supplied to the first biodegradable film 102. The organic waste material 104 may be supplied substantially evenly on top of the first biodegradable film 102 or it may be distributed more evenly after initial supply in order to provide the organic waste material 104 with a substantially even and continuous form.

[0092] FIG. 3D shows the soil 60 to be treated at a stage after step 308 of

process 300 (see above), when the second biodegradable film 106 has been provided on top of the layer of organic waste material 104. As described in connection with FIG. 3B above, the application of the second biodegradable film 106 may be performed in combination with a treatment of the surface the second film 106 is applied to, for example in order to facilitate planarization of the layer of organic waste material 104 as shown in FIGs. 3C and 3D. From these two figures, it can be seen that the organic waste material 104 has been compacted to a desired degree from the initially comparably uneven and/or irregular distribution of material 104. As a result, the infrastructure 100 is formed and may be provided with a substantially even and continuous form over the soil 60 to be treated, as shown in FIG. 3D. [0093] FIGs. 4A to 4D show schematic cross sections of the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil and of the soil to be treated in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 4A shows a first example of how the infrastructure can be applied to the soil 60 to be treated. In line with what is described above, the infrastructure 100 is positioned on top of the soil 60 to be treated and configured to transfer heat to the soil 60 to be treated substantially from above. The heat is generated as described above, for example involving composting processes taking place in the organic waste material 104 and/or heat retained from sunlight and/or the ambient environment. In a preferred embodiment, the infrastructure 100 is configured to provide the soil 60 to be treated with a temperature of about 45°C at a depth of 20 cm for a period of between 2 and 40 days.

[0094] FIG. 4A shows a second example of how the infrastructure can be applied to the soil 60 to be treated. As shown, the infrastructure is applied to the soil 60 to be treated at a depth of about 20 cm. This can be achieved either by the application of fresh top soil on the infrastructure once it is laid out as described above, or, alternatively, by removing a portion of the top soil before application of the infrastructure 100 and by replacing the portion of the top soil once again after the application of the infrastructure 100. In this example, the heat generated by the infrastructure as described above may be transferred to the soil 60 to be treated from within. This may entail the advantage that substantially the entire heat generated by the infrastructure 100 may be used to thermally treat the soil 60 to be treated.

[0095] FIG. 4C shows a third example, in which the infrastructure 100 has been provided with openings through which planting has been performed. As shown, the infrastructure 100 has been laid out on the soil 60 to be treated and, subsequently, plants 30 have been planted through the infrastructure 100. In this manner, the plants may benefit from the heat generated from the infrastructure 100 while the treatment of the soil 60 is ongoing. This may be particularly beneficial in case of plants which require extended periods of time to grow and/or which are more sensitive to temperature and/or temperature changes. The infrastructure 100 may be configured to allow penetration of the first and second films 102 and 106, as well as of the layer of organic waste material 104 in order to facilitate the subsequent planting of plants 30.

[0096] FIG. 4D shows an embodiment of the infrastructure 100, which is provided with (micro-) irrigation in the form of a supply line 80. The supply line 80 is configured to provide the organic waste material 104 with a desired irrigation, for example in order to regulate composting and/or temperature or other factors relevant for the thermal treatment of the soil 60. In some embodiments, supply lines 80 may be used to provide the organic waste material 104 and/or the soil 60 to be treated with desired moisture and/or selected nutrients.

[0097] FIG. 5 shows a schematic cross section of an apparatus forming and

deploying the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. The infrastructure 100 may be laid out on the soil 60 to be treated as described above, i.e. in several separate steps. Alternatively, the infrastructure 100 may be laid out in an automated manner and substantially in a continuous process that provides the soil 60 to be treated with the infrastructure 100 as shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 5 shows an apparatus 200 for forming and deploying the

infrastructure 100 for thermal treatment of soil 60 in the form of a device attachable to a common agricultural vehicle 50. The apparatus 200 may be powered and/or operated by means of the vehicle 50 or may be a stand-alone unit operable independently from such vehicle 50.

[0098] The apparatus 200 includes a first supply unit 202 configured for supplying the first biodegradable film 102 and a second supply unit 206 configured for supplying the second biodegradable film 106. Further, the apparatus 200 includes a third supply unit 204 configured for supplying the organic waste material 104 and containing an amount of organic waste material 104' to be supplied to the soil 60 to be treated. The apparatus may include further elements, for example control elements, grinders, cutters, flaps, hatches, covers, lines, levers, etc., which have been omitted for clarity.

[0099] During operation, the apparatus 200 is configured to continuously supply the first film 102, the organic waste material 104 on top the first film 102, and the second film 106 on top of the organic waste material 104, in a continuous process substantially corresponding to the process 300 described above, with the exception that the steps 304, 206, and 308 are carried out substantially at the same time and in a continuous manner.

[00100] FIG. 6 shows a flow chart illustrating a process for forming and deploying the infrastructure for thermal treatment of soil in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. The process 600 for forming and deploying the infrastructure 100 for thermal treatment of soil 60 starts at step 602. At this step, again, it is assumed that the soil 60 to be treated has already undergone any pre-treatment necessary for application of the infrastructure 100, for example including, but not limited to, planarization, furrowing, or any other agricultural treatment commonly used. Any such pre-treatment may be performed with the vehicle 50 and/or by other means.

[00101] At step 604, the apparatus 200 is provided with substantially continuous movement over the soil 60 to be treated. This ensures that the continuous supply of the infrastructure 100 may be performed in the manner desired, for example regarding the area covered within a specified time, but also regarding the thickness of the layer of organic waste material 104, which is formed within infrastructure 100. At step 606, the first supply unit 202 continuously provides the soil 60 to be treated with a first biodegradable film 102. It may be beneficial if the top layer of the soil 60 to be treated substantially simultaneously undergoes planarization, although this is not required for application of the infrastructure 100. At step 608, the third supply unit 204 continuously provides organic waste material 104 (e.g. mulch) to the first biodegradable film 102. In some embodiments, the third supply unit 204 may include a grinder or other suitable component configured to provide organic waste material 104 (e.g. from the organic waste material 104' stored for this purpose) in a suitable granular form that allows for a substantially even and continuous layer to be formed on the first biodegradable film 102. In other embodiments, the third supply unit 204 may be configured to provide a layer of organic waste material 104 that is thicker or thinner, depending upon the individual application and/or environmental factors. The organic waste material 104 may optionally undergo planarization, for example to evenly distribute the material 104 and/or to provide the material 104 with a smooth top surface. This may be achieved by a suitable planarization unit (e.g. one or more rollers; not shown) included in apparatus 200 and/or vehicle 50. At step 610, the second supply unit 206 continuously provides the second biodegradable film 106 on top of the layer of organic waste material 104. Optionally, respective edges 105 (see FIG. 2) of the first and second layers 102 and 106 may be joined together in a suitable manner (see above) using a corresponding unit (not shown). At step 612, for example after a desired area has been covered with the infrastructure 100, the supply of films 102, 106 (e.g. by means of a cutter; not shown) and of organic waste material 104 is suspended, such that the apparatus 200 may be repositioned for providing another area with the infrastructure 100. The process 600 ends at step 614. Subsequently, composting of the organic waste material 104 and/or heat treatment of the soil 60 is allowed to take place as described above. Composting may typically take anywhere from about 90 days to 1 year, as desired and/or depending upon the individual application and/or environmental factors. Heat treatment of soil may typically take more than 1 week, preferably between 1 week and 12 weeks, more preferably between 3 weeks and 6 weeks. After step 614, the agricultural use of the soil 60 may proceed, for example by planting crops.

While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various

modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and the scope of the appended claims.