The utilization of successful plasticulture engineering technology can ideally optimize crop yields and provide both economic and environmental benefits, such as reducing the need for water and fertilizer. This book discusses the myriad important aspects of crop production that utilize plastic, such as micro-irrigation, water management, plastic mulch films, protected cultivation and low tunnels, crop covers, canal linings, silage bags, and more. It also examines the latest methods for vertical farming and technological aspects, such as smart agriculture using the internet of things (IoT).The current state of the art, as well as potential future uses,ofplastics isdiscussed in addition to the benefits and limitations of plastics applications in agriculture generally. Features Illustrates application of plastic in protected cultivation, water management, aquaculture, and hi-tech horticulture using innovative technologies to enhance water use efficiency and crop productivity Presents precision farming for climate-resilient technologies Includes real-world examples to present practical insights of plastic engineering for climate change mitigation strategies. Plasticulture Engineering and Technology will serve as a useful resource for students, professionals, and researchers in agriculture and agricultural engineering, hydrology, hydraulics, water resources engineering, irrigation engineering, and environmental science.

A unique source of reliable; up-to-date data and guidance for researchers seeking to develop lucrative new plastics-based products; this book provides a handy reference to the latest breakthroughs in resins; adhesive and plastic additives. --

A Guide to the Manufacture, Performance, and Potential of Plastics in Agriculture explores the use of polyethylene, polypropylene films, and similar products in all aspects of agricultural production. The International Association for Plastics in Agriculture and the American Society for Plasticulture are two organizations that have represented researchers and extension specialists conducting agricultural plastic research. With climate change entrenched around the globe, plasticulture use in plant and animal production will neutralize many of the stress events encountered on a daily basis around the world. Many of the early researchers that conducted field research in the use of plastics in agriculture have either retired or are deceased. These early pioneers in plasticulture research-the basis of plant production using plastics-were very creative and persistent in discovering uses of plastics in agricultural applications. Discusses plasticulture, the basis of plant production using plastics, including topics such as plastic mulch, row covers, drip irrigation, and high/low tunnels Contains 10 chapters that cover the process of producing polyethylene and polypropylene plastics that are used in agriculture Covers the many uses of plastics in all aspects of agriculture, including plastic greenhouses, rigid mold plastics, disposal of plastics, and plastics in animal production

This introductory book covers the entire spectrum of the plastics technology/engineering, from raw material to finished plastic products. It is intended not just for university/college students in plastics technology and other engineering disciplines but also for beginners to the field in general. The interconnectivity between the different relevant knowledge areas of plastics technology, such as materials engineering, processing technology, and product development, is emphasized. A chapter “Plastics and the Environment” is also included, covering a topic (rightly) often of great concern to students and newcomers to the field. Also includes numerous videos, conveniently linked via QR codes, to better demonstrate key processes visually.