The 2011 ASHS Annual Conference

Agricultural plastics have always presented special stabilization challenges due to the impact of pesticide treatments on the plastic's life. With the recent introduction of more aggressive agrochemical treatment protocols, sophisticated crop treatments, and other technologies for growing, new challenges have emerged in stabilizing mulch and greenhouse  films, tunnels, and shade cloths. The mechanisms by which additive technology prolongs the life of these films will be described, with special attention on how changing practices are creating the need for new stabilization solutions. The use of plastic additives for light management, heat management, and crop enhancement in greenhouses and tunnels will also be covered.