Polymers for Agri-Food Applications

Polymers for Agri-Food Applications

Author: Tomy J. Gutiérrez

Publisher: Springer

Published: 2019-08-02

Total Pages: 622

ISBN-13: 3030194167

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This book presents an exhaustive analysis of the trends in the development and use of natural and synthetic polymer systems aimed at sustainable agricultural production. The polymers have allowed the development of controlled and released systems of agrochemicals such as pesticides, fertilizers and phytohormones through micro and nanoencapsulated systems, which protect and stimulate the growth of crops at low costs and without damage to the environment. Hydrogel systems from natural and synthetic polymers have also had their place in the agricultural industry, since they allow to maintain the humidity conditions of the crops for their correct development in drought times. Mulch films made of polymers have also become important in the control of weeds and pests in crops, as well as the use of edible coatings applied to fruits and vegetables during post-harvest, which reduce the losses of these perishable foods. Currently, the systems indicated, as well as others, are already used on a large scale. However, research studies in this area have been limited compared to other polymer applications. This book collects useful information for researchers, students and technologies related to the polymer technology and agri-food production. In this book, world-renowned researchers have participated, including associate editors of important journals, as well as researchers working in the area of research and development (R&D) of leading agri-food industries in the manufacture of agricultural inputs.


Encyclopedia of Polymer Applications, 3 Volume Set

Encyclopedia of Polymer Applications, 3 Volume Set

Author: Munmaya Mishra

Publisher: CRC Press

Published: 2018-12-17

Total Pages: 2954

ISBN-13: 1351019414

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Undoubtedly the applications of polymers are rapidly evolving. Technology is continually changing and quickly advancing as polymers are needed to solve a variety of day-to-day challenges leading to improvements in quality of life. The Encyclopedia of Polymer Applications presents state-of-the-art research and development on the applications of polymers. This groundbreaking work provides important overviews to help stimulate further advancements in all areas of polymers. This comprehensive multi-volume reference includes articles contributed from a diverse and global team of renowned researchers. It offers a broad-based perspective on a multitude of topics in a variety of applications, as well as detailed research information, figures, tables, illustrations, and references. The encyclopedia provides introductions, classifications, properties, selection, types, technologies, shelf-life, recycling, testing and applications for each of the entries where applicable. It features critical content for both novices and experts including, engineers, scientists (polymer scientists, materials scientists, biomedical engineers, macromolecular chemists), researchers, and students, as well as interested readers in academia, industry, and research institutions.


Soil Degradable Bioplastics for a Sustainable Modern Agriculture

Soil Degradable Bioplastics for a Sustainable Modern Agriculture

Author: Mario Malinconico

Publisher: Springer

Published: 2017-02-14

Total Pages: 192

ISBN-13: 3662541300

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This book shows how the use of biodegradable plastics in agriculture can have a profound positive impact on plasticulture. Starting with an organic chemistry approach to biodegradable and compostable plastics, both natural and synthetic, it then analyzes the technological and agronomic aspects of existing bioplastics for protected cultivation (mulching, direct cover, low tunnels). It describes the new sprayable biodegradable mulching method, which is based on the use of waterborne polysaccharides and cellulosic fibers. A further chapter describes the research and technology of biodegradable plastics for different agricultural practices. It also includes chapters on life cycle assessment (LCA) of biodegradable plastics for agriculture, and existing and developing standards in the field. It is a valuable resource for agronomists, chemical and materials engineers, polymer technologists and scientists, as well as for a more general readership interested in the application of green chemistry principles to the vast world of crop production. Mario Malinconico is Research Director at the Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council, Italy. /p


High Performance Technical Textiles

High Performance Technical Textiles

Author: Roshan Paul

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons

Published: 2019-04-29

Total Pages: 500

ISBN-13: 1119325013

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An authentic resource for the fundamentals, applied techniques, applications and recent advancements of all the main areas of technical textiles Created to be a comprehensive reference, High Performance Technical Textiles includes the review of a wide range of technical textiles from household to space textiles. The contributors—noted experts in the field from all the continents—offer in-depth coverage on the fibre materials, manufacturing processes and techniques, applications, current developments, sustainability and future trends. The contributors include discussions on synthetic versus natural fibres, various textile manufacturing techniques, textile composites and finishing approaches that are involved in the manufacturing of textiles for a specific high performance application. Whilst the book provides the basic knowledge required for an understanding of technical textiles, it can serve as a springboard for inspiring new inventions in hi-tech fibres and textiles. This important book: Contains a unique approach that offers a comprehensive understanding of the manufacturing and applications of technical textiles Includes a general overview to the fundamentals, current techniques, end use applications as well as the most recent advancements Explores the current standards in the industry and the ongoing research in the field Offers a comprehensive and single source reference on the topic Written for academics, researchers and professionals working in textile and related industries, High Performance Technical Textiles offers a systematic, structured, logical and updated source of information for understanding technical textiles.


Polymers in Agriculture and Horticulture

Polymers in Agriculture and Horticulture

Author: Roger P. Brown

Publisher: iSmithers Rapra Publishing

Published: 2004

Total Pages: 108

ISBN-13: 9781859574607

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Polymers have been used in agriculture and horticulture since the middle of the last century. There is a tremendous potential for using polymers in agriculture and our fields and garden would look very different if we did not use polymers in them. This review traces the history of polymer use, discusses the markets for polymers in these applications, and describes in detail the different types of polymers that can be used and their specific applications. An additional indexed section containing several hundred abstracts from the Polymer Library gives useful references for further reading.


Biodegradable Polymer-Based Food Packaging

Biodegradable Polymer-Based Food Packaging

Author: Abhishek Dutt Tripathi

Publisher: Springer Nature

Published: 2022-10-20

Total Pages: 348

ISBN-13: 9811957436

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This book covers different aspects of biodegradable packaging, such as their sourcing and application in food industries. The book focuses on the production and characterization of biodegradable food packaging derived from plant, animal and microbial sources. Chapters highlight the nano-technological interventions in biodegradable food packaging and the less studied microbial biopolymer-based biodegradable food packaging makes it distinct from other related books. It includes the latest research and development in the areas of food processing, food packaging, material science and polymeric science. It also discusses the standards and regulatory guidelines about the biodegradability testing of these polymers. This book is meant for researchers in food science, food packaging, bioprocess technology, polymer science and biochemical engineering. It is also beneficial for faculty members and students of food microbiology, food technology, dairy technology. The book is also meant for small entrepreneurs and farmers who are interested in bio-plastic usage for food packaging.


Progress in Polymer Degradation and Stability Research

Progress in Polymer Degradation and Stability Research

Author: Herbert W. Moeller

Publisher: Nova Publishers

Published: 2007-06-11

Total Pages: 406

ISBN-13: 9781600218286

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Polymer degradation is a change in the properties -- tensile strength, colour, shape, etc -- of a polymer or polymer based product under the influence of one or more environmental factors such as heat, light or chemicals. These changes may be undesirable, such as changes during use, or desirable, as in biodegradation or deliberately lowering the molecular weight of a polymer. Such changes occur primarily because of the effect of these factors on the chemical composition of the polymer. In a finished product such a change is to be prevented or delayed. However, the degradation process can be useful from the view points of understanding the structure of a polymer or recycling/reusing the polymer waste to prevent or reduce environmental pollution. Polymers molecules are very large on the molecular scale which derive their unique and useful properties from their size.


Stability and Degradation of Organic and Polymer Solar Cells

Stability and Degradation of Organic and Polymer Solar Cells

Author: Frederik C. Krebs

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons

Published: 2012-04-23

Total Pages: 375

ISBN-13: 1119952514

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Organic photovoltaics (OPV) are a new generation of solar cells with the potential to offer very short energy pay back times, mechanical flexibility and significantly lower production costs compared to traditional crystalline photovoltaic systems. A weakness of OPV is their comparative instability during operation and this is a critical area of research towards the successful development and commercialization of these 3rd generation solar cells. Covering both small molecule and polymer solar cells, Stability and Degradation of Organic and Polymer Solar Cells summarizes the state of the art understanding of stability and provides a detailed analysis of the mechanisms by which degradation occurs. Following an introductory chapter which compares different photovoltaic technologies, the book focuses on OPV degradation, discussing the origin and characterization of the instability and describing measures for extending the duration of operation. Topics covered include: *Chemical and physical probes for studying degradation *Imaging techniques *Photochemical stability of OPV materials *Degradation mechanisms *Testing methods *Barrier technology and applications Stability and Degradation of Organic and Polymer Solar Cells is an essential reference source for researchers in academia and industry, engineers and manufacturers working on OPV design, development and implementation.


Soil Solarization

Soil Solarization

Author: Jaacov Katan

Publisher: CRC Press

Published: 1991-10-24

Total Pages: 286

ISBN-13: 9780849368684

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Soil Solarization describes the principles and technology of soil solarization and the use of soil solarization for different crops and cropping systems. The book evaluates and interprets the extensive amount of literature available on soil solarization in relation to climatic effects and changes in populations of soil-borne microorganisms and weeds. It also compares the advantages and disadvantages of soil solarization with other methods of soil disinfestation, such as soil steaming and fumigation. Soil Solarization explores the effects of soil solarization, covering such points as biological control, changes in soil chemistry involving mineral elements, as well as other changes, such as soil salinity and soil structure. It is suitable for solarizers, researchers working with soil-borne pathogens and soil microbiology, plant protection experts, and other plant researchers and extension specialists.


Plastics in the Circular Economy

Plastics in the Circular Economy

Author: Vincent Voet

Publisher: Walter de Gruyter GmbH & Co KG

Published: 2021-03-22

Total Pages: 300

ISBN-13: 3110666766

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We cannot imagine a world without plastics. Plastic products make our daily life safe, healthy and convenient. Besides all the benefits, the current plastics economy gives rise to environmental concerns with respect to fossil oil depletion and plastic waste accumulation. In a circular economy, however, plastics can be redesigned for reusability and recyclability. This book makes the topic of sustainable plastics approachable for students and career starters alike, describing the nature and chemistry of (bio)polymers as well as how to create a closed loop of plastic materials.