阅读说明：本技术 生产植物生长基质的方法 (Method for producing plant growth substrate ) 是由 夏洛特·林德 托马斯·耶尔姆高德 于 2017-11-13 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明涉及一种生产由人造玻璃质纤维(MMVF)形成的凝聚性生长基质产品的方法,包括以下步骤：(vi)提供MMVF；(vii)提供未固化的粘结剂组合物；(viii)提供超吸收性聚合物；(ix)形成MMVF、未固化的粘结剂组合物和超吸收性聚合物的混合物；(x)将所述混合物中的未固化的粘结剂组合物固化以形成凝聚性生长基质产品；其中所述未固化的粘结剂组合物包含至少一种水胶体。(The present invention relates to a method for producing a coherent growth substrate product formed of man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF), comprising the steps of: (vi) providing an MMVF; (vii) providing an uncured binder composition; (viii) providing a superabsorbent polymer; (ix) forming a mixture of MMVF, uncured binder composition, and superabsorbent polymer; (x) Curing the uncured binder composition in the mixture to form a cohesive growth matrix product; wherein the uncured adhesive composition comprises at least one hydrocolloid.)

1. A method of producing a coherent growth substrate product formed of man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF), comprising the steps of:

(vi) providing an MMVF;

(vii) providing an uncured binder composition;

(viii) providing a superabsorbent polymer;

(ix) forming a mixture of the MMVF, the uncured binder composition, and the superabsorbent polymer;

(x) Curing the uncured binder composition in the mixture to form the cohesive growth matrix product;

wherein the uncured adhesive composition comprises at least one hydrocolloid.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the uncured binder composition further comprises at least one fatty acid glyceride.

3. The method of claim 2 wherein the uncured binder composition and the superabsorbent polymer are added simultaneously.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the mixture in step (iv) is formed by adding the uncured binder composition and the superabsorbent polymer to the MMVF after forming fibers.

5. The method of claim 4 wherein the uncured binder composition and the superabsorbent polymer are added simultaneously.

6. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the superabsorbent polymer is a solid, preferably a solid particulate.

7. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein 0.1 to 10 wt%, preferably 0.5 to 7 wt%, preferably 1 to 5 wt% is provided based on the weight of the growth substrate.

8. The method of any preceding claim, further comprising the steps of: providing an additive prior to curing of the uncured binder composition, wherein the additive is selected from the group consisting of clays, fertilizers, pesticides, microorganisms, bioactive additives, pigments, wetting agents, and mixtures thereof.

9. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of gelatin, pectin, starch, alginate, agar, carrageenan, gellan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, locust bean gum, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose, arabinoxylan, cellulose, curdlan, β -glucan.

10. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one hydrocolloid is a polyelectrolytic hydrocolloid.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the at least one hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of gelatin, pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose.

12. The method according to any of the preceding claims, comprising at least two hydrocolloids, wherein one hydrocolloid is gelatin and at least one other hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of pectin, starch, alginate, agar, carrageenan, gellan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, locust bean gum, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose, arabinoxylan, cellulose, curdlan, beta-glucan.

13. The adhesive composition according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the gelatin is present in the adhesive composition in an amount of 10 to 95 wt. -%, such as 20 to 80 wt. -%, such as 30 to 70 wt. -%, such as 40 to 60 wt. -%, based on the weight of the hydrocolloid.

14. The method according to any one of claims 12 or 13, wherein the one hydrocolloid and the at least one other hydrocolloid have complementary charges.

15. The method according to any one of claims 2 or 14, wherein the at least one fatty acid glyceride is in the form of a vegetable oil and/or an animal oil.

16. The method of any one of claims 2 or 15, wherein the at least one fatty acid glyceride is a vegetable-based oil.

17. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 16, wherein the at least one fatty acid glyceride is selected from one or more components of the group consisting of linseed oil, olive oil, tung oil, coconut oil, hemp oil, rapeseed oil and sunflower oil.

18. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 15, wherein the at least one fatty acid glyceride is in the form of an animal oil, such as fish oil.

19. The process according to any one of claims 2 to 18, wherein the at least one fatty acid glyceride comprises a vegetable oil and/or an animal oil having an iodine value of 75 or more, such as 75 to 180, such as 130 or more, such as 130 to 180.

20. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 18, wherein the at least one fatty acid glyceride comprises a vegetable oil and/or an animal oil having an iodine value of ≤ 100, such as ≤ 25.

21. The method according to any of claims 2 to 20, wherein the fatty acid glycerides are present in an amount of 0.5 to 40 wt. -%, such as 1 to 30 wt. -%, such as 1.5 to 15 wt. -%, such as 3 to 10 wt. -%, such as 4 to 7.5 wt. -%, based on the dry weight of the hydrocolloid.

22. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein curing step (v) occurs at a temperature of no more than 95 ℃, such as from 5 ℃ to 95 ℃, such as from 10 ℃ to 80 ℃, such as from 20 ℃ to 60 ℃, such as from 40 ℃ to 50 ℃.

23. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the binder composition is not a thermosetting binder composition.

24. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the adhesive composition does not comprise poly (meth) acrylic acid, a salt of poly (meth) acrylic acid, or an ester of poly (meth) acrylic acid.

25. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one hydrocolloid is a biopolymer or a modified biopolymer.

26. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the binder composition is formaldehyde-free.

27. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the adhesive composition consists essentially of:

at least one hydrocolloid;

at least one fatty acid glyceride;

optionally at least one pH adjusting agent;

optionally at least one cross-linking agent;

optionally at least one anti-swelling agent

Optionally at least one antifoulant;

and (3) water.

28. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the binder composition is not crosslinked.

29. The method of any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the binder composition is crosslinked.

30. An agglomerated growth substrate product, said agglomerated growth substrate product comprising;

man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF) bonded with a cured binder composition; and

a superabsorbent polymer;

wherein the adhesive composition comprises at least one hydrocolloid prior to curing.

31. The cohesive growth matrix product according to claim 30, wherein the Loss On Ignition (LOI) is in the range of 0.1% to 25.0%, such as 0.3% to 18.0%, such as 0.5% to 12.0%, such as 0.7% to 8.0% by weight.

32. The cohesive growth matrix product of claim 31, further comprising the features of any one of claims 2 and 6 to 29.

33. Use of a cohesive growth matrix product as a matrix for growing plants or propagating seeds; wherein the cohesive growth matrix product comprises;

man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF) bonded with a cured binder composition; and

a superabsorbent polymer;

wherein the adhesive composition comprises at least one hydrocolloid prior to curing.

34. The use according to claim 33, wherein the growth substrate product further comprises the features of any one of claims 2 and 6 to 29.

35. A method of growing plants in a cohesive growth substrate product, the method comprising:

(i) providing at least one growth substrate product;

(ii) placing one or more plants in the growth substrate product for growth; and

(iii) irrigating the growth substrate product;

wherein the cohesive growth matrix product comprises;

man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF) bonded with a cured binder composition; and

a superabsorbent polymer;

wherein the adhesive composition comprises at least one hydrocolloid prior to curing.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the growth substrate product further comprises the features of any one of claims 2 and 6 to 29.

37. A method of propagating seeds in a cohesive growth matrix product, the method comprising:

(i) providing at least one growth substrate product

(ii) Placing one or more seeds in the growth substrate product,

(iii) irrigating the growth substrate product; and

(iv) germinating and growing the seed to form a seedling;

wherein the cohesive growth matrix product comprises;

man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF) bonded with a cured binder composition; and

a superabsorbent polymer;

wherein the adhesive composition comprises at least one hydrocolloid prior to curing.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein the growth substrate product further comprises the features of any one of claims 2 and 6 to 29.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a method for producing a cohesive growth matrix, a cohesive growth matrix product, a method for propagating seeds or seedlings, a method for cultivating plants and the use of a cohesive growth matrix.

Background

For many years, it has been known to cultivate plants in a cohesive growth matrix formed by man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF). MMVF products used for this purpose (provided in the form of cohesive plugs, chunks or sheets) typically contain a binder (typically an organic binder) to provide structural integrity to the product. Such binders have traditionally been associated with extensive cure times and high cure temperatures, and require special curing equipment to cure the binder composition. The curing apparatus is conventionally an oven operating at a temperature of from 150 ℃ to 300 ℃, typically from 200 ℃ to 275 ℃.

At the same time, it is desirable to incorporate additives into the cohesive plant growth matrix. In particular, the re-saturation characteristics are improved; water distribution characteristics; water retention; initial wettability; additives for seed germination, rooting and plant growth are commonly used in plant growth substrates. High temperatures generally have a negative effect on these additives. For example, these additives may begin to degrade, decompose, or be destroyed by temperatures of 50 ℃ or higher, such as 100 ℃ or higher, or 200 ℃ or higher, and fail to provide their desired function after decomposition.

Particularly desirable additives are superabsorbent polymers. Such polymers can absorb and hold fluid under pressure without dissolving in the absorbed fluid. However, superabsorbent polymers may begin to degrade or break down by temperatures of 50 ℃ or higher, such as 100 ℃ or higher or 200 ℃.

Thus, if a binder composition is to be used, these additives must be added after the binder composition is cured in a conventional curing oven.

US 2014/0130410 discloses a method of including superabsorbent polymers in MMVF plant growth substrates. The method involves needling the superabsorbent polymer into a matrix so as to avoid the use of a binder composition, and its associated high curing temperature that degrades the superabsorbent polymer. However, this method requires the use of complex equipment and does not allow the presence of any binder, which adversely affects the structural integrity of the substrate.

Accordingly, it is desirable to produce an adhesive composition that cures at 5 ℃ to 95 ℃, 5 ℃ to 80 ℃, such as 10 ℃ to 60 ℃, such as 20 ℃ to 40 ℃, and thus allows the addition of temperature sensitive additives such as superabsorbent polymers before curing of the adhesive composition occurs, and does not cause the additives to degrade or decompose such that they cannot perform their desired function.

Furthermore, in addition to the need for high curing temperatures, known binder compositions often also comprise phenol-formaldehyde resins, since these can be produced economically. Examples of documents disclosing the use of formaldehyde-containing binders include WO2009/090053, WO2008009467, WO2008/009462, WO2008/009461, WO2008/009460 and WO 2008/009465. However, these binders have the disadvantage that they contain formaldehyde. Formaldehyde compounds have been reported to cause health damage and are therefore environmentally undesirable; this has been reflected in regulations relating to the reduction or elimination of formaldehyde emissions. Furthermore, formaldehyde is known to have negative effects on phytotoxicity.

Binder types other than the standard phenol urea formaldehyde type have been disclosed for use in MMVF growth substrates

Examples of non-phenol-formaldehyde binders include those described in WO2017/114723 and WO 2017/114724. However, these binders require high curing temperatures, such as at least 200 ℃.

WO2012/028650 discloses a mineral fibre product comprising MMVF bonded with a cured binder composition, wherein the binder composition prior to curing comprises the reaction product of (i) a saccharide component, (ii) a polycarboxylic acid component and an alkanolamine component. The binder composition of WO2012/028650 requires a high curing temperature, such as from 200 ℃ to 300 ℃. In addition, the starting materials used to produce these binders are rather expensive chemicals. Thus, there is a continuing need to provide formaldehyde-free binders that have low curing temperatures and can be economically produced.

Another effect associated with previously known binder compositions for plant growth substrates is that at least a majority of the starting materials used to produce these binders are derived from fossil fuels. Consumers are continually inclined to select products that are produced wholly or at least in part from renewable materials and there is a need for binders that provide plant growth substrates produced at least in part from renewable materials. Preferably, the binder is produced from a non-toxic material.

Binder compositions based on renewable materials have previously been proposed. However, MMVF products prepared with these binders still have some disadvantages in terms of strength when compared to MMVF products prepared with phenol-formaldehyde resins.

Reference EP 2424886B 1(Dynea OY) describes a composite material comprising a cross-linkable protein material resin. In a typical embodiment, the composite material is a cast mold (cast mould) comprising inorganic fillers, such as, for example, sand and/or wood, as well as a proteinous material and an enzyme suitable for crosslinking the proteinous material. Mineral wool products are not described in EP 2424886B 1.

Reference C.

K. dela Caba, a. eciza, r. ruseckaite, i.mondragon in biores.technol.2010,101,6836-6842 relates to the replacement of non-biodegradable plastic films by renewable raw materials from plant and meat industry waste. In this connection, the reference describes the use of hydrolysable chestnut tannin for modifying gelatin in order to form a film. This reference does not describe binders, in particular for mineral wool.

Another effect associated with previously known binder compositions is that they contain corrosive and/or hazardous components. This requires safeguards to the machinery involved in the production of the growth substrate to prevent corrosion, as well as safety measures to the personnel handling the machinery. This can increase costs and create health concerns.

It would be desirable to have a method of producing a growth substrate that allows for the incorporation of temperature sensitive additives, such as superabsorbent polymers, prior to curing of the binder composition. Temperature sensitive refers to additives that begin to degrade, decompose, or destroy when exposed to temperatures of 50 ℃ or more, such as 100 ℃ or more or 200 ℃, such as 50 ℃ to 300 ℃, such as 80 ℃ to 230 ℃, or 100 ℃ to 200 ℃. Thus, there is a need to produce binder compositions that do not require high temperature curing. It is desirable for the binder composition to have a cure temperature that does not degrade, decompose, or destroy temperature sensitive additives such as superabsorbent polymers. Additionally, it is desirable that the binder composition be formaldehyde-free. It is also desirable that the binder composition be derived primarily from renewable materials. It is also desirable that the binder composition be economical to produce. It is desirable that the binder composition be free of corrosive and/or harmful components.

Disclosure of Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of producing a coherent growth substrate product formed from man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF), comprising the steps of:

(i) providing an MMVF;

(ii) providing an uncured binder composition;

(iii) providing a superabsorbent polymer;

(iv) forming a mixture of MMVF, uncured binder composition, and superabsorbent polymer;

(v) curing the uncured binder composition in the mixture to form a cohesive growth matrix product;

wherein the uncured adhesive composition comprises at least one hydrocolloid.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a cohesive growth matrix product comprising;

man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF) bonded with a cured binder composition; and

a superabsorbent polymer;

wherein the adhesive composition comprises at least one hydrocolloid prior to curing.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided the use of a cohesive growth substrate product as a substrate for growing plants or propagating seeds;

wherein the cohesive growth matrix product comprises;

man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF) bonded with a cured binder composition; and

a superabsorbent polymer;

wherein the adhesive composition comprises at least one hydrocolloid prior to curing.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of growing plants in a cohesive growth substrate product, the method comprising:

(i) providing at least one growth substrate product;

(ii) placing one or more plants in the growth substrate product for growth; and

(iii) irrigating the growth substrate product;

wherein the cohesive growth matrix product comprises;

man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF) bonded with a cured binder composition; and

a superabsorbent polymer;

wherein the adhesive composition comprises at least one hydrocolloid prior to curing.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of propagating seeds in a cohesive growth matrix product, the method comprising:

(i) providing at least one growth substrate product

(ii) Placing one or more seeds in the growth substrate product,

(iii) irrigating the growth substrate product; and

(iv) germinating and growing the seeds to form seedlings;

wherein the cohesive growth matrix product comprises;

man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF) bonded with a cured binder composition; and

a superabsorbent polymer;

wherein the adhesive composition comprises at least one hydrocolloid prior to curing.

The present inventors have surprisingly found that binder compositions having a low curing temperature as described above can be produced. This allows additives, which normally would start to degrade, decompose or be destroyed by high temperatures, to be added to the growth substrate together with the binder composition, in particular before the binder composition is cured.

The inventors have also surprisingly found that binder compositions having the above-mentioned advantages can be produced to a large extent from renewable materials. In addition, the binder composition is formaldehyde-free, economical to produce, and does not contain corrosive and/or harmful components.

Detailed Description

Method for producing growth substrate

The present invention provides a method of producing a coherent growth substrate product formed from man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF), comprising the steps of:

(i) providing an MMVF;

(ii) providing an uncured binder composition;

(iii) providing a superabsorbent polymer;

(iv) forming a mixture of MMVF, uncured binder composition, and superabsorbent polymer;

(v) curing the uncured binder composition in the mixture to form a cohesive growth matrix product;

wherein the uncured adhesive composition comprises at least one hydrocolloid and preferably at least one fatty acid glyceride.

In the present invention, man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF) are provided. MMVF can be prepared by any method known to those skilled in the art of MMVF growth substrate product production. Generally, a mineral charge is provided and melted in a furnace to form a mineral melt. The melt is then formed into fibers by means of rotary fiberization.

The melt can be formed into fibers by external centrifugation, for example using a cascade spinner, thereby forming a fiber cloud. Alternatively, the melt may be formed into fibers by internal centrifugal fiberization, for example using a rotor, to form a fiber cloud.

Typically, these fibers are subsequently collected to form a primary fleece or web, which is then cross-lapped to form a secondary fleece or web. The secondary fleece or mesh is then solidified and formed into a growth substrate.

MMVF may be a conventional type used to form known MMVF growth substrates. It may be glass wool or slag wool, but is typically asbestos. Asbestos generally has an iron oxide content of at least 3% and an alkaline earth metal (calcium oxide and magnesium oxide) content of 10% to 40%, as well as other common oxide constituents of mineral wool. These components may include silica; alumina; alkali metals (sodium oxide and potassium oxide), titanium dioxide and other minor oxides. Generally, it may be any type of man-made vitreous fibre conventionally known to produce growth substrates.

According to common practice, the geometric mean fiber diameter is generally in the range from 1.5 to 10 microns, in particular from 2 to 8 microns, preferably from 3 to 6 microns.

In the present invention, the uncured binder composition may be added to the MMVF during the fiberization stage. The fiberization stage is the stage in which the fibers are formed. This involves adding the uncured binder composition to the fibers as they are formed, i.e., adding the uncured binder composition to the fiber cloud as it is formed. These methods are well known in the art. Preferably, the uncured binder composition is sprayed onto the fibers as they are formed, i.e., sprayed onto the cloud of fibers being formed. The uncured binder composition may be added in solid or liquid form, preferably the uncured binder composition is in liquid form, most preferably in aqueous form.

Alternatively, the uncured binder composition may be added to the fibers after the fibers have been formed. The uncured binder composition may be added to fibers formed by internal or external centrifugal fiberization. The uncured binder composition may be added in solid or liquid form, preferably in liquid form, most preferably in aqueous form.

The superabsorbent polymer may be added after the fibers are formed. Superabsorbent polymers can be added to fibers formed by internal or external centrifugal fiberization. The superabsorbent polymer is preferably added to the primary fleece or web. Preferably, the superabsorbent polymer is added as particles.

If the uncured binder composition and superabsorbent polymer are added after fiberization, such as to the primary web or fleece, they may be added simultaneously or sequentially. For example, the uncured binder composition may be added first to the formed fibers and then the superabsorbent polymer may be added subsequently. Alternatively, the uncured binder composition and superabsorbent polymer may be mixed into a mixture and then the mixture added to the formed fibers. One advantage of adding the uncured binder composition and superabsorbent polymer to the primary web or fleece is that this step is performed remotely from the spinning machine. As a result, this step is performed at a lower temperature than the temperature at which the fibers are formed.

Alternatively, the superabsorbent polymer may be added first to the formed fibers and then the uncured binder composition added subsequently.

The uncured binder composition may be added to the as-formed fibers, i.e., the cloud of fibers as they are formed, and then the superabsorbent polymer is subsequently added to the formed fibers.

Preferably, the uncured binder composition and the superabsorbent polymer are added at the same stage, as this simplifies the overall process of producing the growth substrate by avoiding additional steps in manufacture. Most preferably, both the uncured binder composition and the superabsorbent polymer are added after fiberization, such as into the primary web or fleece, as it simplifies the process of producing the growth substrate by avoiding additional steps in manufacture.

In any of the above methods, once the uncured binder composition and additives are added to the fibers, the binder composition is cured to form a cohesive growth matrix.

Curing

The binder composition is cured by chemical and/or physical reaction of the components of the binder composition.

In one embodiment, curing occurs in a curing apparatus. In one embodiment, curing is carried out at a temperature of from 5 ℃ to 95 ℃, such as from 5 ℃ to 80 ℃, such as from 5 ℃ to 60 ℃, such as from 8 ℃ to 50 ℃, such as from 10 ℃ to 40 ℃.

In one embodiment, curing takes place in a conventional curing oven for operating mineral wool production at a temperature of from 5 ℃ to 95 ℃, such as from 5 ℃ to 80 ℃, such as from 10 ℃ to 60 ℃, such as from 20 ℃ to 40 ℃.

The curing process may begin immediately after the binder is applied to the fibers. Curing is defined as the process by which a binder composition undergoes a physical and/or chemical reaction, typically until the binder composition reaches a solid state, wherein, in the case of a chemical reaction, the molecular weight of the compounds in the binder composition is typically increased and thereby the viscosity of the binder composition is increased.

In one embodiment, the curing process includes crosslinking and/or the addition of water as water of crystallization (inclusion).

In one embodiment, the cured binder contains crystal water in an amount that may decrease and increase depending on the prevailing temperature, pressure and humidity conditions.

In one embodiment, the curing process comprises a drying process.

In one embodiment, the curing process comprises pressure drying. The pressure may be applied by blowing air or gas over/through the mixture of mineral fibers and binder composition. The blowing process may be accompanied by heating or cooling, or it may be at ambient temperature.

In one embodiment, the curing is performed in an oxygen deficient environment. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, applicants believe that curing in an oxygen-deficient environment is particularly beneficial when the binder composition comprises an enzyme, as it increases the stability of the enzyme component, particularly transglutaminase, in some embodiments, thereby increasing the crosslinking efficiency. In one embodiment, the curing process is thus carried out in an inert atmosphere, in particular in an atmosphere of an inert gas (e.g. nitrogen).

In some embodiments, particularly embodiments in which the binder composition comprises a phenolic, particularly a tannin, an oxidizing agent may be added. Oxidizing agents are useful as additives to increase the rate of oxidation of phenols, particularly tannins. One example is tyrosinase, which oxidizes phenol to hydroxyphenol/quinone, thus accelerating the binder formation reaction.

In another embodiment, the oxidizing agent is oxygen supplied to the binder composition.

In one embodiment, curing is performed in an oxygen-rich environment.

Adhesive composition

The uncured adhesive composition comprises at least one hydrocolloid and preferably at least one fatty acid glyceride.

The advantage of using such an adhesive composition is that it has a very simple composition, which requires as little as only one component, i.e. at least one hydrocolloid. The adhesive composition preferably has two components, namely at least one hydrocolloid and at least one fatty acid glyceride. Thus, the present invention relates to components that are natural and non-toxic, and therefore can be safely used. At the same time, the binder composition is based on renewable resources and has excellent properties with respect to strength (both unaged and aged).

Because the binder composition used to produce the cohesive growth matrix product according to the invention may be cured at or near ambient temperature, the temperature sensitive additive may be incorporated prior to curing of the binder composition.

In addition, the energy consumption during the production of the product is very low. The embodiment of the non-toxic and non-corrosive binder in combination with curing at ambient temperature makes the machinery involved much simpler. At the same time, the likelihood of spotting of the uncured binder composition is significantly reduced due to curing at ambient temperature.

Another important advantage is the self-healing ability of the growth substrate product resulting from the binder composition.

Another advantage of the growth substrate product is that the growth substrate product can be shaped as desired after application of the binder composition but before curing. This opens up the possibility of preparing custom products.

Another advantage is that the risk of priming (punking) is significantly reduced.

The ignition can be associated with an exothermic reaction during the manufacture of the mineral wool product, which can increase the temperature through the thickness of the insulation material, leading to melting or devitrification of the MMVF and ultimately to a fire hazard. In the worst case, the ignition can lead to a fire in the stacked trays stored in the warehouse or during transport.

A further advantage is that there is no emission, in particular no VOC emission, during curing.

Preferably, the binder is formaldehyde-free. For the purposes of this application, the term "formaldehyde-free" is defined as characterizing mineral wool products, wherein the emission of formaldehyde from the mineral wool product is below 5 μ g/m²H, preferably less than 3. mu.g/m²H is used as the reference value. Preferably, the test is performed according to ISO 16000 for testing formaldehyde emissions.

A surprising advantage of embodiments of the cohesive growth matrix product according to the invention is that it exhibits self-healing properties. After exposure to very harsh conditions, when the MMVF product looses a portion of its strength, the growth substrate product according to the present invention may regain some or all or even exceed the initial strength. In one embodiment, the aged strength is at least 80%, such as at least 90%, such as at least 100%, such as at least 130%, such as at least 150% of the unaged strength. This is in contrast to conventional growth substrate products, where the loss of strength after exposure to harsh environmental conditions is irreversible.

While not wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the inventors believe that this surprising property in the cohesive growth matrix product according to the invention is due to the complex nature of the bonds formed in the network of the cured binder composition, such as a protein cross-linked by phenolic and/or quinone-containing compounds, or a protein cross-linked by enzymes, which also includes quaternary structure and hydrogen bonds, and which allows the bonds in the network to be established after returning to normal environmental conditions.

Hydrocolloid

Hydrocolloids are hydrophilic polymers of plant, animal, microbial or synthetic origin, typically containing a number of hydroxyl groups, and may be polyelectrolytes. Hydrocolloids are widely used to control functional properties of aqueous foodstuffs.

Hydrocolloids may be proteins or polysaccharides and are completely or partially soluble in water and are mainly used to increase the viscosity of the continuous phase (aqueous phase), i.e. as gelling or thickening agents. Hydrocolloids can also be used as emulsifiers, since their stabilizing effect on emulsions results from an increase in the viscosity of the aqueous phase.

Hydrocolloids are generally composed of mixtures of similar but non-identical molecules, and are produced from different sources and methods of preparation. The heat treatment and, for example, the salt content, pH and temperature all affect the physical properties that it exhibits. The description of hydrocolloids generally presents an idealized structure, but since they are natural products (or derivatives) with a structure determined, for example, by random enzyme action, rather than by precise programming of the genetic code (laydown), the structure may differ from the ideal structure

Many hydrocolloids are polyelectrolytes (e.g., alginates, gelatin, carboxymethyl cellulose, and xanthan gum).

Polyelectrolytes are polymers in which a large number of the repeating units have electrolyte groups. Polycations and polyanions are polyelectrolytes. These groups dissociate in aqueous solutions (water), charging the polymer. Thus, polyelectrolytes behave like electrolytes (salts) and polymers (high molecular weight compounds) and are sometimes referred to as poly-salts.

The charged groups ensure strong hydration, especially on a per molecule basis. The presence of counterions and co-ions (ions of the same charge as the polyelectrolyte) introduces a complex property of ion specificity.

The proportion of counterions remains closely associated with the polyelectrolyte trapped in its electrostatic field, thereby reducing the activity and mobility of the counterions.

Preferably, the binder composition may comprise one or more counter ions selected from the group of Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+, Ba2 +.

Another characteristic of polyelectrolytes is a high linear charge density (number of charged groups per unit length).

Generally, neutral hydrocolloids are less soluble, while polyelectrolytes are more soluble.

Many hydrocolloids also gel. Gels are liquid water-containing networks exhibiting a solid-like behavior, the characteristic strength of which depends on their concentration, and the hardness and brittleness of which depends on the structure of the hydrocolloid present.

Hydrogels are hydrophilic crosslinked polymers that can swell to absorb and retain large amounts of water. The use of hydrogels in hygiene products is particularly known. Commonly used materials use polyacrylates, but hydrogels can be made by crosslinking soluble hydrocolloids to make insoluble, but elastic and hydrophilic polymers.

Examples of hydrocolloids include: agar, alginate, arabinoxylan, carrageenan, carboxymethylcellulose, cellulose, curdlan, gelatin, gellan gum, beta-glucan, guar gum, gum arabic, locust bean gum, pectin, starch, xanthan gum. In one embodiment the at least one hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of gelatine, pectin, starch, alginate, agar, carrageenan, gellan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, locust bean gum, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose, arabinoxylan, cellulose, curdlan, beta-glucan.

Examples of polyelectrolytic hydrocolloids include: gelatin, pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is a polyelectrolytic hydrocolloid.

The at least one hydrocolloid may be selected from the group consisting of gelatin, pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose.

The at least one hydrocolloid may be a gel former.

At least one hydrocolloid may be used in the form of a salt such as Na +, K +, NH4+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+, Ba2 +.

Gelatin

Gelatin is derived from the chemical degradation of collagen. Gelatin may also be produced by recombinant techniques. Gelatin is water soluble and has a molecular weight of 10.000 to 500.000g/mol, such as 30.000 to 300.000g/mol, depending on the hydrolysis grade. Gelatin is a widely used food product and it is therefore widely accepted that this compound is completely non-toxic and therefore no precautions need to be taken when handling gelatin.

Gelatin is a heterogeneous mixture of single or multi-chain polypeptides, typically exhibiting a helical structure. Specifically, the triple helix of type I collagen extracted from skin and bone as a source of gelatin consists of two α 1(I) chains and one α 2(I) chain.

Gelatin solutions may undergo a coiled-coil (coil-helix) transition.

Type a gelatin is produced by acidic treatment. Type B gelatin is produced by alkaline treatment.

Chemical crosslinking can be incorporated into gelatin. In one embodiment, transglutaminase is used to link lysine to a glutamine residue; in one embodiment, glutaraldehyde is used to attach lysine to lysine, and in one embodiment, tannin is used to attach lysine residues.

Gelatin can also be further hydrolyzed into smaller fragments as small as 3000 g/mol.

Upon cooling the gelatin solution, a collagen-like helix may be formed.

Other hydrocolloids may also comprise helical structures, such as collagen-like helices. Gelatin may form a helical structure.

In one embodiment, the cured adhesive comprising hydrocolloid comprises a helical structure.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is a low strength gelatin, such as a gelatin having a gel strength of 30 Bloom to 125 Bloom.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is a medium strength gelatin, such as a gelatin having a 125 bloom to 180 bloom gel strength.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is a high strength gelatin, such as a gelatin having a gel strength of 180 bloom to 300 bloom.

In a preferred embodiment, the gelatine is preferably derived from mammals, birds, such as from cattle, pigs, horses, poultry and/or from one or more sources from the group consisting of fish scales, fish skins.

In one embodiment, urea may be added to the binder composition. The inventors have found that the addition of even small amounts of urea results in gelatin denaturation, which slows gelation, which may be desirable in some embodiments. The addition of urea can also lead to softening of the product.

The present inventors have found that carboxylic acid groups in gelatin interact strongly with trivalent and tetravalent ions (e.g., aluminum salts). This is particularly true for type B gelatin which contains more carboxylic acid groups than type a gelatin.

The inventors have found that in some embodiments, curing/drying of a binder composition comprising gelatin should not begin at very high temperatures.

The inventors have found that starting the cure at low temperature can result in a stronger product. Without being bound by any particular theory, the inventors hypothesize that initiating cure at elevated temperatures may result in impermeability of the adhesive composition shell, impeding water from coming out of the bottom.

Surprisingly, binder compositions comprising gelatin are very heat resistant. The inventors have found that, in some embodiments, the cured binder can withstand temperatures up to 300 ℃ without degradation.

Pectin

Pectin is a heterogeneous group of acidic structural polysaccharides that are present in fruits and vegetables that form acid stable gels.

Typically, pectins do not have a precise structure, but may contain up to 17 different monosaccharides and more than 20 different types of linkages (links).

The D galacturonic acid residues form the majority of the molecule.

Gel strength increases with increasing Ca2+ concentration, but decreases with increasing temperature and acidity (pH < 3).

Pectin can form a helical structure.

The gelling capacity of the dication is similar to that found with alginate (Mg2+ is much less than Ca2+, Sr2+ is less than Ba2 +).

Alginate salts

Alginates are the scaffold polysaccharides produced by brown seaweed.

Alginates are linear non-branched polymers comprising β - (1,4) -linked D-mannuronic acid (M) and α - (1,4) -linked L-guluronic acid (G) residues. The alginate may also be a bacterial alginate, such as additionally O-acetylated. Alginates are not random copolymers but, depending on the source algae, are composed of blocks of similar and strictly alternating residues (i.e. MMMMMM, GGGGGG and GMGMGMGM), each with different conformational preferences and behaviour. Alginates can be prepared with a wide range of average molecular weights (50 to 100000 residues). The free carboxylic acid has water molecules H3O + that are strongly hydrogen bonded to the carboxylate groups. The Ca2+ ion can displace this hydrogen bonding, pulling (zipping) guluronic acid, but not mannuronic acid, stoichiometrically together in a so-called egg-box conformation. Recombinant epimerases with different specificities can be used to produce engineered alginates.

Alginates can form a helical structure.

Carrageenan

Carrageenan is a generic term for a polysaccharide of the scaffold type prepared by alkaline extraction (and modification) from red seaweed.

Carrageenan is a linear polymer of about 25,000 galactose derivatives, with a regular but not exact structure depending on the source and extraction conditions.

Kappa-carrageenan (carrageenan kappa-carrageenan) is produced by alkaline elimination of mu-carrageenan isolated mainly from the tropical seaweed kappaphycus alvarezii (also known as Eucheuma cottonii).

I-carrageenan (ca. talca carrageenan) is produced by alkaline elimination of v-carrageenan isolated mainly from eucheuma dentata (also known as eucheuma Spinosum) of the philippine seaweed.

Lambda carrageenan (lambda carrageenan), which is mainly isolated from gynoecium (Gigartina pisillata) or carrageen (Chondrus crispus), is converted to theta carrageenan (theta carrageenan) by alkaline elimination, but at a much slower rate than the rate that leads to the production of I-carrageenan and kappa-carrageenan.

The most intense gel of kappa carrageenan is formed by K + instead of Li +, Na +, Mg2+, Ca2+, or Sr2 +.

All carrageenans may form a helical structure.

Arabic gum

Gum arabic is a complex and variable mixture of galactoarabinan oligosaccharides, polysaccharides and glycoproteins. Gum arabic is composed of a mixture of polysaccharides of lower relative molecular mass and glycoproteins of higher molecular mass rich in widely variable hydroxyprolines.

Gum arabic has both hydrophilic carbohydrates and hydrophobic proteins present.

Xanthan gum

Xanthan gum is a microbial desiccation-tolerant (desiccation-resistant) polymer prepared by aerobic submerged fermentation of, for example, Xanthomonas campestris (xanthmonas campestris).

Xanthan gum is an anionic polyelectrolyte with a β - (1,4) -D-glucopyranose glucan (as cellulose) backbone with D-mannopyranose- (2,1) - β -D-glucuronic acid- (4,1) - β -D-mannopyranose side chains on alternating residues, linked to- (3,1) - α -.

Xanthan has been proposed to be naturally a bimolecular antiparallel duplex. The transition between the ordered duplex conformation and the more flexible single-stranded strand may occur between 40 ℃ and 80 ℃. Xanthan gum can form a helical structure.

The xanthan gum may comprise cellulose.

Cellulose derivatives

An example of a cellulose derivative is carboxymethyl cellulose.

Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is a chemically modified derivative of cellulose formed by the reaction of cellulose with alkali and chloroacetic acid.

The CMC structure is based on a β - (1,4) -D-glucopyranose polymer of cellulose. Different formulations may have different degrees of substitution, but typically range from 0.6 to 0.95 derivatives per monomer unit.

Agar-agar

Agar is a scaffold polysaccharide prepared from the same family of red seaweed (Rhodophyceae) as carrageenan. Agar is commercially available from the species Gelidium (Gelidium) and Gracilaria (Gracilaria).

Agar consists of a mixture of agarose and agar gel. Agarose is a linear polymer of about 120,000 relative molecular mass (molecular weight) based on- (1,3) - β -D-galactopyranose- (1,4) -3, 6-anhydride- α -L-galactopyranose units.

Agar gel is a heterogeneous mixture with smaller molecules present in smaller amounts.

Agar can form a helix.

Arabinoxylan

Arabinoxylans are naturally present in the bran of grasses (gramineae).

Arabinoxylans are composed of α -L-arabinofuranose residues linked to a β - (1,4) -linked D-xylopyranose polymer backbone as a branch point.

Arabinoxylans can form helical structures.

Cellulose, process for producing the same, and process for producing the same

Cellulose is a scaffold polysaccharide found in plants as microfibrils (2nm to 20nm in diameter and 100nm to 40000nm in length). Cellulose is mainly prepared from wood pulp. Cellulose is also produced in a highly hydrated form by some bacteria, such as acetobacter xylinum.

Cellulose is a linear polymer of β - (1,4) -D-glucopyranose units in a 4C1 conformation. There are four crystalline forms: i α, I β, II and III.

The cellulose derivative can be methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, and hydroxypropyl cellulose.

Gel polysaccharide

Curdlan (Curdlan) is a polymer prepared commercially from mutant strains of the Alcaligenes faecalis variety (Alcaligenes faecalis. myxogenes). Curdlan (curdlan gum) is a medium relative molecular mass, unbranched, linear 1,3 β -D glucan, and has no side chains.

Curdlan can form a helical structure.

Curdlan is not soluble in cold water, but is plasticized and dissolved shortly before the aqueous suspension is heated to about 55 ℃ to produce a reversible gel. Heating at higher temperatures produces a more resilient irreversible gel, which is then retained by cooling.

Scleroglucan is also a 1,3 β -D glucan, but has an additional 1,6 β -linkage that confers solubility under ambient conditions.

Gellan gum

Gellan is a linear tetrasaccharide 4) -L-rhamnopyranosyl- (. alpha. -1,3) -D-glucopyranosyl- (. beta. -1,4) -D-glucopyranosuronosyl- (. beta. -1,4) -D-glucopyranosyl- (. beta. -1) with an O (2) L-glyceryl and O (6) acetyl substituent on the 3-linked glucose.

Gellan gum may form a helical structure.

Beta-glucan

Beta-glucan is present in grass bran (Gramineae).

Beta-glucans are composed of linear unbranched polysaccharides of linked beta- (1,3) -and beta- (1,4) -D-glucopyranose units in a non-repeating, but non-random order.

Guar gum

Guar gum (also known as guarana) is a reserve polysaccharide (seed flour) extracted from the seeds of the leguminous shrub guar (cyamopsistetraponoloba).

Guar gum is a galactomannan similar to locust bean gum, consisting of a (1,4) -linked β -D-mannopyranose backbone with a branch point at the 6 position linked to an α -D-galactose (i.e. a 1, 6-linked- α -D-galactopyranose).

Guar gum is formed from a non-ionic polydisperse rod polymer.

Unlike locust bean gum, guar gum does not form a gel.

Locust bean gum

Locust bean gum (also known as carob gum and carbobin (carobin)) is a reserve polysaccharide (seed flour) extracted from the seeds (inner core) of the carob (Ceratonia siliqua).

Locust bean gum is a galactomannan similar to guar gum, consisting of a (1,4) -linked β -D-mannopyranose backbone with a branch point at the 6 position linked to an α -D-galactose (i.e. a 1, 6-linked α -D-galactopyranose).

Locust bean gum is a polydispersion made up of non-ionic molecules.

Starch

Starch is composed of two types of molecules, amylose (typically 20% to 30%) and amylopectin (typically 70% to 80%). Both of these are composed of polymers of alpha-D-glucose units in a 4C1 conformation. In amylose, the linkages are- (1,4) -, with the epoxy atoms on the same side, while in amylopectin, about every twenty units are also linked to- (1,6) -, forming branch points. The relative proportions of amylose to amylopectin and the- (1,6) -branch points depend on the starch source. The starch may be derived from corn (maize), wheat, potato, tapioca and rice. Amylopectin (amylose-free) can be isolated from 'waxy' maize starch, whereas amylose (amylopectin-free) is optimally isolated after specific hydrolysis of amylopectin with pullulanase.

Amylose can form a helical structure.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is a functional derivative of starch, such as cross-linked, oxidized, acetylated, hydroxypropylated and partially hydrolyzed starch.

In a preferred embodiment, the binder composition comprises at least two hydrocolloids, wherein one hydrocolloid is gelatin and at least one other hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of pectin, starch, alginate, agar, carrageenan, gellan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, locust bean gum, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose, arabinoxylan, cellulose, curdlan, beta-glucan.

In one embodiment, the adhesive composition comprises at least two hydrocolloids, wherein one hydrocolloid is gelatin and at least the other hydrocolloid is pectin.

In one embodiment, the adhesive composition comprises at least two hydrocolloids, wherein one hydrocolloid is gelatin and at least the other hydrocolloid is alginate.

In one embodiment, the adhesive composition comprises at least two hydrocolloids, wherein one hydrocolloid is gelatin and at least the other hydrocolloid is carboxymethyl cellulose.

In a preferred embodiment, the adhesive composition comprises at least two hydrocolloids, wherein one hydrocolloid is gelatin, and wherein the gelatin is present in the aqueous adhesive composition in an amount of from 10 to 95 wt. -%, such as from 20 to 80 wt. -%, such as from 30 to 70 wt. -%, such as from 40 to 60 wt. -%, based on the weight of the hydrocolloid.

In one embodiment, the adhesive composition comprises at least two hydrocolloids, wherein one hydrocolloid and at least the other hydrocolloid have complementary charges.

In one embodiment, one hydrocolloid is one or more of gelatin or gum arabic having complementary charges, selected from one or more hydrocolloids of the group of pectin, alginate, carrageenan, xanthan gum or carboxymethyl cellulose.

In one embodiment, the adhesive composition is capable of curing at a temperature of no more than 95 ℃, such as from 5 ℃ to 95 ℃, such as from 10 ℃ to 80 ℃, such as from 20 ℃ to 60 ℃, such as from 40 ℃ to 50 ℃.

In one embodiment, the aqueous binder composition is not a thermosetting binder composition.

The thermosetting composition is in a soft solid or viscous liquid state, preferably comprising a prepolymer, preferably a resin, which upon curing irreversibly converts to a non-fusible, insoluble polymer network. Curing is usually caused by the action of heat, whereby temperatures above 95 ℃ are usually required.

The cured thermoset resin is referred to as a thermoset or thermoset plastic/polymer — when used as a host material in a polymer composite, it is referred to as a thermoset polymer matrix. In one embodiment, the aqueous binder composition according to the present invention does not comprise poly (meth) acrylic acid, salts of poly (meth) acrylic acid or esters of poly (meth) acrylic acid.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is a biopolymer or modified biopolymer.

Biopolymers are polymers produced by living organisms. Biopolymers may comprise monomeric units covalently bonded to form larger structures.

There are three main classes of biopolymers classified according to the monomer units used and the structure of the biopolymers formed: polynucleotides (RNA and DNA), which are long polymers consisting of 13 or more nucleotide monomers; polypeptides, such as proteins, which are polymers of amino acids; polysaccharides, such as linearly bonded polymeric carbohydrate structures.

The polysaccharide may be linear or branched; they are usually linked by glycosidic bonds. In addition, many saccharide units can undergo various chemical modifications and can form part of other molecules such as glycoproteins.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is a biopolymer or modified biopolymer having a polydispersity index of the relevant molecular mass distribution of 1, such as 0.9 to 1.

In one embodiment, the binder composition comprises a protein from an animal source, including collagen, gelatin and hydrolyzed gelatin, and the binder composition further comprises at least one phenolic and/or quinone containing compound, such as tannins of one or more components selected from the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (procyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins, and/or tannins derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, carageenan (Staghorn sumac) and big ear cup (ringing cups).

In one embodiment, the binder composition comprises proteins from animal sources, including collagen, gelatin and hydrolyzed gelatin, and wherein the binder composition further comprises at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase (EC 2.3.2.13), protein disulfide isomerase (EC 5.3.4.1), thiol oxidase (EC1.8.3.2), polyphenol oxidase (EC 1.14.18.1), in particular catechol oxidase, tyrosine oxidase and phenol oxidase, lysyl oxidase (EC1.4.3.13) and peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7).

Fatty acid glycerides

The binder composition preferably comprises a component in the form of at least one fatty acid glyceride.

Fatty acids are carboxylic acids having an aliphatic chain, which are saturated or unsaturated.

Glycerol is a polyol compound having the IUPAC name propane-1, 2, 3-triol.

Naturally occurring fats and oils are glycerides (also known as triglycerides) with fatty acids.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term fatty acid glyceride refers to mono-, di-and tri-esters of glycerol and fatty acids.

Although the term fatty acid may in the context of the present invention be any carboxylic acid having an aliphatic chain, it is preferred that it is a carboxylic acid with an aliphatic chain having from 4 to 28 carbon atoms, preferably an even number of carbon atoms. Preferably, the aliphatic chain of the fatty acid is unbranched.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one fatty acid glyceride is in the form of a vegetable oil and/or an animal oil. In the context of the present invention, the term "oil" comprises at least one fatty acid glyceride in the form of an oil or fat.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one fatty acid glyceride is a vegetable-based oil.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one fatty acid glyceride is in the form of: pulp fats such as palm oil, olive oil, avocado oil; kernel seed fats, such as lauric oils, such as coconut oil, palm kernel oil, babassu oil, and other palm seed oils, lauric oils of other sources; palm-stearate oils, such as cocoa butter, shea butter, shorea tallow (borneo tall) and related fats (vegetable fats); palmitic acid oils such as cottonseed oil, kapok oil and related oils, pumpkin seed oil, corn (maize) oil, corn oil; oleic-linoleic acids oils such as sunflower oil, sesame oil, linseed oil, perilla oil, hemp seed oil, tea seed oil, safflower and nigers seed oil (nigered oils), grape seed oil, poppy seed oil, soybean oils such as soybean oil, peanut oil, lupin oil; cruciferous oils, such as rapeseed oil, mustard seed oil; conjugated acid oils such as tung oil and related oils, brazil nut oil and related oils; substituted fatty acid oils such as castor oil, chaulmoogra \ hydnocarpus \ gorli oil, vernonia oil; animal fats, such as terrestrial animal fats, such as lard, tallow, lamb fat, horse fat, goose fat, chicken fat; marine oils such as whale oil and fish oil.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one fatty acid glyceride is in the form of a vegetable oil, in particular one or more components selected from the group consisting of linseed oil, olive oil, tung oil, coconut oil, hemp oil, rapeseed oil and sunflower oil.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one fatty acid glyceride is selected from the group consisting of vegetable oils having an iodine value in the range of about 136 to 178 (such as linseed oil having an iodine value in the range of about 136 to 178), vegetable oils having an iodine value in the range of about 80 to 88 (such as olive oil having an iodine value in the range of about 80 to 88), vegetable oils having an iodine value in the range of about 163 to 173 (such as tung oil having an iodine value in the range of about 163 to 173), vegetable oils having an iodine value in the range of about 7 to 10 (such as coconut oil having an iodine value in the range of about 7 to 10), one or more components of the group consisting of vegetable oils having an iodine value in the range of about 140 to 170 (such as hemp oil having an iodine value in the range of about 140 to 170), vegetable oils having an iodine value in the range of about 94 to 120 (such as rapeseed oil having an iodine value in the range of about 94 to 120), vegetable oils having an iodine value in the range of about 118 to 144 (such as sunflower oil having an iodine value in the range of about 118 to 144).

In one embodiment, the at least one fatty acid glyceride is not of natural origin.

In one embodiment, the at least one fatty acid glyceride is a modified vegetable or animal oil.

In one embodiment, the at least one fatty acid glyceride comprises at least one trans fatty acid.

In an alternative preferred embodiment, the at least one fatty acid glyceride is in the form of an animal oil, such as fish oil.

The inventors have found that an important parameter of the fatty acid glycerides used in the binder composition is the amount of unsaturation in the fatty acids. The amount of unsaturation in a fatty acid is typically measured by the iodine number (also known as the iodine number or iodine uptake value or iodine index). The higher the iodine number, the more C ═ C bonds are present in the fatty acid. To determine the iodine value as a measure of the unsaturation of fatty acids, we refer to Thomas, Alfred (2002) "Fats and fatty oils" in Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial chemistry, Weinheim, Wiley-VCH.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one fatty acid glyceride comprises a vegetable oil and/or an animal oil having an iodine value of 75 or more, such as 75 to 180, such as 130 or more, such as 130 to 180.

In an alternative preferred embodiment, the at least one fatty acid glyceride comprises a vegetable oil and/or an animal oil having an iodine value of 100 or less, such as 25 or less.

In one embodiment, the at least one fatty acid glyceride is a drying oil. For the definition of Drying oils, see Poth, Ulrich (2012) "Drying oils and related products" in Ullmann's encyclopedia of Industrial chemistry, Weinheim, Wiley-VCH.

Thus, the inventors have found that particularly good results are obtained when the iodine value is in a rather high range, or alternatively in a rather low range. While not wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the inventors believe that the advantageous properties caused by fatty acid esters with a high iodine value on the one hand and fatty acid esters with a low iodine value on the other hand are based on different mechanisms. The inventors postulate that the advantageous properties of fatty acid glycerides with high iodine values may be due to the participation of C ═ C double bonds in the crosslinking reaction present at high values in these fatty acids, whereas fatty acid glycerides with low iodine values and lacking a high content of C ═ C double bonds may allow to stabilize the cured binder by van der waals interactions.

In a preferred embodiment, the content of fatty acid glycerides is from 0.5 to 40 wt. -%, such as from 1 to 30 wt. -%, such as from 1.5 to 20 wt. -%, such as from 3 to 10 wt. -%, such as from 4 to 7.5 wt. -%, based on the dry weight of the hydrocolloid.

In one embodiment, the binder composition comprises gelatin, and the binder composition further comprises tannins of one or more components selected from the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (procyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins and/or tannins derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, caraway and cupflower, preferably tannic acid, and the binder composition further comprises at least one fatty acid glyceride, such as at least one fatty acid glyceride of one or more components selected from the group consisting of linseed oil, olive oil, tung oil, coconut oil, hemp oil, rapeseed oil and sunflower oil.

In one embodiment, the binder composition comprises gelatin, and the binder composition further comprises at least one enzyme that is transglutaminase (EC 2.3.2.13), and the binder composition further comprises at least one fatty acid glyceride, such as at least one fatty acid glyceride of one or more components selected from the group consisting of linseed oil, olive oil, tung oil, coconut oil, hemp oil, rapeseed oil, and sunflower oil.

In one embodiment, the aqueous binder composition is formaldehyde-free.

In one embodiment, the binder composition consists essentially of:

-at least one hydrocolloid;

-optionally at least one fatty acid glyceride;

-optionally at least one pH adjusting agent;

-optionally at least one cross-linking agent;

-optionally at least one anti-swelling agent;

-optionally at least one antifouling agent

-water.

In one embodiment, oil may be added to the binder composition.

In one embodiment, the at least one oil is a non-emulsified hydrocarbon oil.

In one embodiment, the at least one oil is an emulsified hydrocarbon oil.

In one embodiment, the at least one oil is a vegetable-based oil.

In one embodiment, the at least one cross-linking agent is a tannin of one or more components selected from the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (procyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins, and/or a tannin derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, caraus and cupflower.

In one embodiment, the at least one cross-linking agent is an enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase (EC 2.3.2.13), protein disulfide isomerase (EC 5.3.4.1), thiol oxidase (EC1.8.3.2), polyphenol oxidase (EC 1.14.18.1), in particular catechol oxidase, tyrosine oxidase and phenol oxidase, lysyl oxidase (EC1.4.3.13) and peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7).

In one embodiment, the Loss On Ignition (LOI) of the cohesive growth matrix product is in the range of 0.1% to 25.0%, such as 0.3% to 18.0%, such as 0.5% to 12.0%, such as 0.7% to 8.0% by weight.

In one embodiment, the binder is not crosslinked. In an alternative embodiment, the binder is crosslinked.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of gelatin, pectin, starch, alginate, agar, carrageenan, gellan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, locust bean gum, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose, arabinoxylan, cellulose, curdlan, β -glucan.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is a polyelectrolytic hydrocolloid.

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained from the curing of a binder composition comprising at least one hydrocolloid selected from the group consisting of gelatin, pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose.

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained from the curing of a binder composition comprising at least two hydrocolloids, wherein one hydrocolloid is gelatin and the at least one other hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of pectin, starch, alginate, agar, carrageenan, gellan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, locust bean gum, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose, arabinoxylan, cellulose, curdlan, beta-glucan. In one embodiment, the binder results from curing of a binder composition comprising gelatin, wherein the gelatin is present in an amount of from 10 to 95 wt%, such as from 20 to 80 wt%, such as from 30 to 70 wt%, such as from 40 to 60 wt%, based on the weight of the hydrocolloid.

In one embodiment, the adhesive is obtained by curing an adhesive composition comprising hydrocolloids, wherein one hydrocolloid and the at least one other hydrocolloid have a complementary charge.

In one embodiment, the Loss On Ignition (LOI) is in the range of 0.1% to 25.0%, such as 0.3% to 18.0%, such as 0.5% to 12.0%, such as 0.7% to 8.0% by weight.

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained from curing the binder composition at a temperature of less than 95 ℃, such as from 5 ℃ to 95 ℃, such as from 10 ℃ to 80 ℃, such as from 20 ℃ to 60 ℃, such as from 40 ℃ to 50 ℃.

In one embodiment, the binder results from the curing of a binder composition that is not a thermosetting binder composition.

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained from a binder composition that does not comprise poly (meth) acrylic acid, a salt of poly (meth) acrylic acid, or an ester of poly (meth) acrylic acid.

In one embodiment, the adhesive is obtained from the curing of an adhesive composition comprising at least one hydrocolloid which is a biopolymer or a modified biopolymer.

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained from the curing of a binder composition comprising animal derived proteins including collagen, gelatin and hydrolysed gelatin, and the binder composition further comprises at least one phenolic and/or quinone containing compound, such as tannins of one or more components selected from the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (procyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins, and/or tannins derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, caraway and cupflower.

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained from the solidification of a binder composition comprising proteins of animal origin, including collagen, gelatin and hydrolyzed gelatin, and wherein the binder composition further comprises at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase (EC 2.3.2.13), protein disulfide isomerase (EC 5.3.4.1), thiol oxidase (EC1.8.3.2), polyphenol oxidase (EC 1.14.18.1), in particular catechol oxidase, tyrosine oxidase and phenol oxidase, lysyl oxidase (EC1.4.3.13) and peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7).

Reaction of the components of the Binder composition

The present inventors have found that it is beneficial to apply the binder composition to mineral fibres under acidic conditions. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the binder composition applied to MMVF comprises a pH adjusting agent, in particular in the form of a pH buffer.

In a preferred embodiment, the pH of the binder composition in its uncured state is less than 8, such as less than 7, such as less than 6.

The inventors have found that, in some embodiments, the curing of the binder composition is strongly accelerated under alkaline conditions. Thus, in one embodiment, the binder composition for mineral fibres comprises a pH adjusting agent, which is preferably a base, such as an organic base, such as an amine or a salt thereof; inorganic bases such as metal hydroxides, such as KOH or NaOH, ammonia or its salt forms.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the pH adjusting agent is an alkaline metal hydroxide, in particular NaOH.

In a preferred embodiment, the pH of the binder composition according to the invention is from 7 to 10, such as from 7.5 to 9.5, such as from 8 to 9.

In one embodiment, oil may be added to the binder composition.

In one embodiment, the at least one oil is a non-emulsified hydrocarbon oil.

In one embodiment, the at least one oil is an emulsified hydrocarbon oil.

In one embodiment, the at least one oil is a vegetable-based oil.

In one embodiment, the at least one cross-linking agent is a tannin of one or more components selected from the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (procyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins, and/or a tannin derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, caraus and cupflower.

In one embodiment, the at least one cross-linking agent is an enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase (EC 2.3.2.13), protein disulfide isomerase (EC 5.3.4.1), thiol oxidase (EC1.8.3.2), polyphenol oxidase (EC 1.14.18.1), in particular catechol oxidase, tyrosine oxidase and phenol oxidase, lysyl oxidase (EC1.4.3.13) and peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7).

The additional additive may be an additive comprising calcium ions and an antioxidant.

In one embodiment, the adhesive composition comprises an additive in the form of a linker comprising an acyl group and/or an amine group and/or a thiol group. These joints may reinforce and/or modify the network of cured binder.

In one embodiment, the binder composition comprises further additives in the form of additives selected from the group consisting of PEG-type reagents, silanes and hydroxyapatite.

Superabsorbent polymers

Superabsorbent polymers or SAPs are hydrophilic materials that can absorb and hold fluid under pressure without dissolving in the absorbed fluid. The materials used are well known. They are generally synthesized by one of two routes. First, the water-soluble polymer is crosslinked so that it can swell between crosslinks but cannot dissolve. In the second method, a water-soluble monomer is copolymerized into a block with a water-insoluble monomer.

The earliest superabsorbent materials were saponified starch graft polyacrylonitrile copolymers. Synthetic superabsorbents include polyacrylic acid, polymaleic anhydride-vinyl monomer superabsorbents, starch-polyacrylic acid grafts, polyacrylonitrile-based polymers, crosslinked polyacrylamides, crosslinked sulfonated polystyrenes, crosslinked n-vinyl pyrrolidone or vinyl pyrrolidone-acrylamide copolymers, and polyvinyl alcohol superabsorbents. These polymers absorb many times their own weight in aqueous fluids. Additional superabsorbent polymers include sodium propionate-acrylamide, poly (vinylpyridine), poly (ethyleneimine), polyphosphates, poly (ethylene oxide), vinyl alcohol copolymers with acrylamide, and vinyl alcohol copolymers with acrylic acid acrylates. These superabsorbent polymers are useful in the present invention.

Superabsorbent polymers are beneficially used in plant growth substrates to improve water retention. The superabsorbent polymer particles present in the growth substrate retain the water and then make the water available to the seeds/seedlings/plants when needed. The superabsorbent polymer is also beneficial for water distribution because it can be distributed throughout the growth substrate, thus improving water distribution. By varying the amount of superabsorbent polymer in the matrix, the maximum water content in the matrix can be set. In use, the remaining water is drained from the growth substrate. The presence of the superabsorbent polymer will result in the stability of the water content in the growth substrate product in use.

The superabsorbent polymers typically begin to degrade, decompose or break when exposed to temperatures of 50 ℃ or more, such as 100 ℃ or more or 200 ℃, such as 50 ℃ to 300 ℃, such as 80 ℃ to 230 ℃, or 100 ℃ to 200 ℃. A significant advantage of the present invention is that because of the use of a binder composition that cures at low temperatures, the superabsorbent polymer can be added to the MMVF growth substrate before curing occurs. If the binder composition is cured at 150 ℃ or higher, which is a characteristic feature of binder compositions of the prior art, the superabsorbent polymer must be added after curing.

A problem associated with adding superabsorbent polymer or indeed any additive after curing has taken place is that, generally, this step is carried out by the user of the product and not by the manufacturer. Once the binder composition is cured, a cohesive growth matrix is formed. It is undesirable to add additives to the cohesive growth matrix after manufacture, as this may lead to dust problems. In particular, particles of the additive may detach from the product during handling and transport. To avoid this, growers who use a cohesive matrix in their growing facilities typically add superabsorbent polymer to the matrix. This may result in overdosing or underdosing of the matrix. Furthermore, the addition of additives after the manufacture of the growth substrate may result in an uneven distribution of the additives throughout the growth substrate. One advantage of the present invention is that a cohesive product can be formed at the correct location with the correct amount of superabsorbent polymer present. This is because the superabsorbent polymer is added before the cohesive growth product is formed, i.e., before the binder composition is cured. Thus, the grower does not need to add superabsorbent polymer himself, and the problem of overdosing or underdosing is removed. In addition, the superabsorbent polymers do not detach during handling and transportation.

Another benefit associated with adding the superabsorbent polymer before the binder composition cures is that this allows the polymer to be more firmly contained in the matrix. This helps to bond the superabsorbent polymer particles to the MMVF as the binder composition cures.

Preferably, the superabsorbent polymer is a polymer that begins to degrade, decompose or destroy at a temperature of less than or equal to 250 ℃, more preferably from 80 ℃ to 230 ℃, and most preferably from 100 ℃ to 200 ℃.

The superabsorbent polymers may be provided in dry form, hydrated form, or partially hydrated form. When the SAP is in dry form, it is typically provided in the form of granules or pellets, which are generally flowable when dry. By "hydrated form" is meant that the superabsorbent polymer has absorbed at least 90% of the maximum amount of water it can hold. By "partially hydrated form" is meant that the superabsorbent polymer has absorbed some water, but is capable of absorbing more water. By "dry form" is meant that the SAP comprises less than 5 wt% water, preferably less than 3 wt% water, preferably less than 1 wt% water, preferably no water.

The superabsorbent polymer may be added to the growth substrate in any form as described above. Preferably, the superabsorbent polymer, when added, is in dry form, most preferably in particulate form. This is advantageous because solid particles of SAP are easier to handle than hydrated SAP, thus simplifying manufacture. Additionally, if the SAP is added in a hydrated form, dehydration can occur, which can deform the superabsorbent polymer.

The superabsorbent polymer is preferably added in an amount of from 0.1 to 10 wt%, preferably from 0.5 to 7 wt%, preferably from 1 to 5 wt%, based on the weight of the growth substrate. When used to propagate seeds or grow plants, the preferred amount of superabsorbent polymer provides the required water buffer in the growth substrate product. This is particularly advantageous when the growth substrate product is in contact with soil, because the superabsorbent polymer forms a reservoir of water within the growth substrate that is not elongated by the pressure of the absorbed soil. The maintenance water buffer helps prevent plant necrosis and helps the plants survive until the roots are planted in the soil.

Preferably, the superabsorbent polymer is added as particles. The weight average diameter of the superabsorbent polymer particles is preferably in the range from 0.05mm to 2mm, preferably from 0.1mm to 1 mm. The advantage of adding the superabsorbent polymer in the form of particles is that the manufacturing process is simplified.

The superabsorbent polymer may be uniformly distributed throughout the growth substrate product. This has the advantage of improving the water distribution throughout the growth substrate. The superabsorbent polymer allows water to remain throughout the substrate, thereby counteracting the effects of gravity, i.e., water accumulates at the bottom of the substrate.

Alternatively, the superabsorbent polymer may be more concentrated in certain areas of the growth substrate. In one embodiment, the superabsorbent polymer is present at a higher concentration around the area where the seeds/seedlings/plants are placed than the rest of the growth substrate in order to provide an optimal water content.

Other additives

Preferably, additional additives are added to the MMVF growth substrate. As mentioned above, these additives may be added simultaneously with the superabsorbent polymer and/or the uncured binder composition. Preferably, the additive is added to the MMVF fibers as they are formed with the uncured binder composition and superabsorbent polymer. This ensures that the manufacturing process is simplified.

Preferably, the additive is selected from the group consisting of clays, fertilizers, pesticides, microorganisms, fungi, bioactive additives, pigments, and mixtures thereof.

Preferably, the fertilizer is a controlled release fertilizer. This ensures that nutrients are released at an optimal time during the growth cycle. The fertilizer may be in the form of solid particles or a dispersion. Preferably, it is in the form of solid particles. This is preferred because solids are easier to handle than liquids during manufacture.

The pigment may be in the form of solid particles or a dispersion. Preferably, it is in the form of solid particles. This is preferred because solids are easier to handle than liquids during manufacture. Pigments are used to color the growth substrate product. For example, it may be desirable for the matrix to be darker in color in order to absorb more light. Likewise, to reflect light, it may be preferable that the substrate be shallower. In addition, it is possible to include a dark color in the growth substrate because it makes it easier for the grower to check the location of any light colored seeds in the mineral wool growth substrate. In addition, a brown mineral wool growth substrate is desirable for the end user because it is more similar to soil than a light colored mineral wool growth substrate.

The growth substrate may further comprise a wetting agent.

Growth substrate

The present invention provides a cohesive growth matrix product comprising; man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF) bonded with a cured binder composition; and a superabsorbent polymer;

wherein the adhesive composition prior to curing comprises at least one hydrocolloid and preferably at least one fatty acid glyceride.

Preferably, the cured growth substrate of the present invention is a dry product prior to use in propagating seeds or growing plants. By "dry" is meant that the matrix comprises less than 5% by weight water, preferably less than 3% by weight water, preferably less than 1% by weight water, preferably less than 0.1% by weight water, most preferably no water.

Preferably, the growth substrate product comprises at least 90 wt.% man-made vitreous fibres by weight of the total solid content of the growth substrate. The advantage of having such an amount of fiber in the growth substrate product is that sufficient pores are formed between the fibers to allow the growth substrate product to retain water and nutrients for the plant while maintaining the ability of the plant root system to penetrate into the growth substrate product. The remaining solid components consist mainly of binders and additives.

Preferably, the growth substrate productHas an average density of 30kg/m³To 150kg/m³Such as 30kg/m³To 100kg/m³More preferably 40kg/m³To 90kg/m³。

The volume of the growth substrate product is preferably 3cm³To 86,400cm³Such as 5cm³To 30,000cm³Preferably 8cm³To 20,000cm³Within the range of (1). The growth substrate product may be in the form of a product conventionally referred to as a plug, or in the form of a product commonly referred to as a block, or in the form of a product commonly referred to as a plate.

The growth substrate product may have conventional dimensions of the type of product conventionally referred to as a plug. Thus, it may be 20mm to 35mm, typically 25mm to 28mm in height, and in the range 15mm to 25mm, typically about 20mm in length and width. In this case, the substrate is typically substantially cylindrical, with the end surfaces of the cylinder forming the top and bottom surfaces of the growth substrate.

The volume of the growth substrate product in the form of a plug is preferably no more than 150cm³. Typically, the volume of the growth substrate product in the form of a plug is 0.6cm³To 40cm³Preferably in the range of 3cm³To 150cm³And preferably not more than 100cm³More preferably not more than 80cm³In particular not more than 75cm³Most preferably not more than 70cm³. The minimum distance between the top and bottom surfaces of the plug is preferably less than 60mm, more preferably less than 50mm, and in particular less than 40mm or less.

Another embodiment of the stopper has a height of 30mm to 50mm, typically about 40mm, in the range of 20mm to 40mm, and a length and width of typically about 30 mm. In this case, the growth substrate is generally in the form of a cube. In the first case, the volume of the growth substrate does not generally exceed 50cm³Preferably not more than 40cm³。

Alternatively, the growth substrate may be of the plug type described in publication WO2010/003677 as the first cohesive MMVF growth substrate. In this case, the growth substrateThe volume of the product is most preferably 10cm³To 40cm³Within the range of (1).

Preferably, the growth substrate product in the form of a plug comprises a liquid impermeable plastic covering which is only uncovered around its sides, i.e. the bottom and top surfaces.

The growth substrate product may have conventional dimensions of the type of product conventionally referred to as a block. Thus, it may be 5cm to 20cm, typically 6cm to 15cm in height, and in the range of 4cm to 30cm, typically 10cm to 20cm in length and width. In this case, the substrate is generally substantially cubic. The volume of the growth substrate product in the form of a block is preferably 80cm³To 8000cm³Preferably at 50cm³To 5000cm³More preferably at 100cm³To 350cm³Most preferably 250cm³To 2500cm³Within the range of (1).

Preferably, the growth substrate product in the form of a block comprises a liquid impermeable covering which is uncovered only around its sides, i.e. the bottom and top surfaces.

The growth substrate product may have conventional dimensions of the type of product conventionally referred to as a plate. Thus, it may be 5cm to 15cm, typically 7.5cm to 12.5cm in height, in the range of 5cm to 30cm, typically 12cm to 24cm in width, and in the range of 30cm to 240cm, typically 40cm to 200cm in length. In this case, the substrate is generally substantially cubic. The volume of the growth substrate product in the form of a plate is preferably in the range of 750cm³To 86,400cm³Preferably 3 to 20 litres, more preferably 4 to 15 litres, most preferably 6 to 15 litres.

Preferably, the growth substrate product in the form of a plate comprises a liquid impermeable cover wrapping the plate, wherein the drainage hole is formed by a first hole in said cover. In addition, the block contacts the plate through a second opening in the cover. Additional holes may be present in the cover to allow the tiles to contact the board, i.e., one tile may be located over one hole. The liquid impermeable covering has the effect of directing liquid through the panel towards the discharge aperture and also limits evaporation of fluid from the panel to the atmosphere.

The height is the vertical height of the growth substrate product when placed in the manner intended for use, and thus the distance between the top and bottom surfaces. The top surface is the surface that faces upward when the product is placed for intended use, and the bottom surface is the surface that faces downward when the product is placed for intended use (on which the product is placed).

In general, the growth substrate product may have any suitable shape, including cylindrical, cubic, and cubic. Typically, the top and bottom surfaces are substantially planar.

The growth substrate product is in the form of an agglomerated mass. That is, the growth substrate is typically a cohesive matrix of the man-made vitreous fibres so produced.

In the present invention, the term "height" refers to the distance from the bottom surface to the top surface when the substrate is used. The term "length" refers to the longest distance between the two sides, i.e., the distance from one end to the other when the substrate is used. The term "width" is the distance between the two sides perpendicular to the length. These terms have their ordinary meaning in the art.

Use of growth substrate products

The present invention provides the use of a cohesive growth matrix product as a matrix for growing plants or propagating seeds;

wherein the cohesive growth matrix product comprises;

man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF) bonded with a cured binder composition; and

a superabsorbent polymer;

wherein the adhesive composition prior to curing comprises at least one hydrocolloid and preferably at least one fatty acid glyceride.

The binder composition may have any of the preferred features described herein. The superabsorbent polymer may have any of the preferred features described herein. The cohesive growth matrix product may have any of the preferred features described herein.

Method for cultivating plants

The present invention provides a method of growing plants in a cohesive growth substrate product, the method comprising:

(i) providing at least one growth substrate product;

(ii) placing one or more plants in the growth substrate product for growth; and

(iii) irrigating the growth substrate product;

wherein the cohesive growth matrix product comprises;

man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF) bonded with a cured binder composition; and

a superabsorbent polymer;

wherein the adhesive composition prior to curing comprises at least one hydrocolloid and preferably at least one fatty acid glyceride.

Irrigation may be performed by direct irrigation of the growth substrate product, that is, water is supplied directly to the growth substrate product, such as by a wetted line, tidal displacement, titrator, sprinkler, or other irrigation system.

The growth substrate product used in the method of growing plants is preferably as described above. The binder composition may have any of the preferred features described herein. The superabsorbent polymer may have any of the preferred features described herein.

Method for propagating seeds

The present invention provides a method of propagating seeds in a cohesive growth matrix product, the method comprising:

(i) providing at least one growth substrate product

(ii) Placing one or more seeds in the growth substrate product,

(iii) irrigating the growth substrate product; and

(iv) germinating and growing the seeds to form seedlings;

wherein the cohesive growth matrix product comprises;

man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF) bonded with a cured binder composition; and

a superabsorbent polymer;

wherein the adhesive composition prior to curing comprises at least one hydrocolloid and preferably at least one fatty acid glyceride.

Irrigation may be performed by direct irrigation of the growth substrate product, that is, water is supplied directly to the growth substrate product, such as by a wetted line, tidal displacement, titrator, sprinkler, or other irrigation system.

The growth substrate product used in the method of propagating seeds is preferably as described above. The binder composition may have any of the preferred features described herein. The superabsorbent polymer may have any of the preferred features described herein.