ISHS Acta Horticulturae 636: XXVI International Horticultural Congress: Key Processes in the Growth and Cropping of Deciduous Fruit and Nut Trees
PARTICLE FILM TECHNOLOGY: AN OVERVIEW OF HISTORY, CONCEPTS AND IMPACT IN HORTICULTURE |
| Authors: | D.M. Glenn, G. Puterka |
| Keywords: | kaolin, Surround Crop Protectant, pest control, heat stress, fruit quality |
| Abstract:
Particle Film Technology was developed for the application of aqueous formulations of chemically inert kaolin mineral particles to crop plants, to protect them from insect pests and environmental stresses. Field research demonstrated that this technology effectively provides a safe alternative to organophosphate and carbamate insecticides in a wide range of crops, including apple, pear, grape, blackberry, tomato, peach, and nectarine and the particle film product ‘Surround Crop Protectant’, is the first material to provide effective suppression of high heat damage and sunburn without the use of evaporative cooling. In organic agriculture, particle film technology represents the first broad utility material that provides effective insect control and high produce quality in organic fruits and vegetables. Its adoption by organic growers will further increase the growth of this expanding industry in the US and globally. Particle film technology, while still in its infancy, represents a broadly-based insect control system the impact of which could be similar to the development of the first synthetic insecticides but without the adverse effects on ecosystems. Additionally, particle film technology provides agriculture with the first sunburn and heat management tool that can manipulate ultraviolet, photosynthetically active radiation, and infrared radiation. | |
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