Plastic Products for Agriculture Applications

As with many industries, nylon and acetal are the performance plastic of choice for many bushings, bearings, gears, or mechanical parts used in farming applications. Their noise abatement properties are especially helpful in situations where livestock might be startled by loud noises. Ertalon® 6PLA is a food-grade nylon offered by Mitsubishi Chemical Group when FDA or EU food compliance is required.

As cannabis is legalized in more and more states, new growing operations are on the rise. LEXAN Thermoclear multiwall polycarbonate is the top-of-the-line choice for greenhouses, as it is lightweight and easy to install while maximizing grow yield with its excellent thermal properties and high light transmission. PVC is available in interlocking liner panels for easy construction of warehouses or other buildings. Polymershapes can even offer fabricated polycarbonate transaction windows in standard or ballistic grades for added security.

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE) such as TIVAR 1000 by Mitsubishi Chemical Group is often used to line chutes that transport grain or other dry goods. Its abrasion resistance extends the use of the liner while its low frictional properties maximize material flow. Anti-static grades are available for additional safety in dusty environments.

Replacing glass greenhouses with ones made from multiwall polycarbonate, such as LEXAN Thermoclear, is one of the most common ways the agriculture industry is optimizing production. Compared to traditional glass, polycarbonate’s properties can help increase plant yield by allowing precise light, temperature, and moisture control. Thermoclear’s proprietary coating reduces the contact angle of condensation droplets and decreases water dripping onto plants. Polycarbonate is also virtually shatterproof, even against hail or flying debris.

Grape harvesters use special rods, often called Bo-Peep Rods because of their curved shape, to beat grapes from their vines. Extruded nylon 6/6 is the material of choice for this application due to its high strength and excellent wear resistance. Nylon rods have begun to be used in citrus harvesters as well.

Because plastic doesn’t rust, it’s an excellent material to use in irrigation systems that move water from one place to another. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is the most commonly used plastic in pipes because of its water resistance, corrosion resistance, and strength. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is gaining popularity in irrigation systems because of its higher flexibility and lower cost.

Polyethylene (PE) film is often used to temporarily cover newly planted crops to protect them from insects and animals, control moisture and temperature, and prevent weed growth. This application is sometimes referred to as plastic mulch.

Seals are found throughout farm equipment, including in bucket elevators, spray systems, and oil and fuel systems. Performance plastics make long lasting and cost-effective seals. Acetal offers strength, stiffness, and good wear properties for many simple seals. When high temperatures or harsh chemicals are involved, Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) offers advanced performance in extreme conditions.