BASF (Ludwigshafen / Germany; www.basf.com) has expanded its “NOR” light stabiliser technology designed to help farmers produce continuously in a sustainable way, using energy from the sun. The German group’s latest contribution to the “plasticulture” sector is its “Tinuvin NOR 356”, which it says protects and extends the lifetime of agricultural films exposed to very high levels of UV radiation as well as heat and crop treatments – the latter includes compounds approved in certified organic farming – to prevent plant disease and fertilise the soil.

When added to the polymer, BASF said its new light stabilisers neutralise the complex chain reactions and disrupt the reaction cascade, thereby protecting films by extending their durability. The lifetime extension of NOR-stabilised greenhouse covers is claimed to increase productivity, improve crop quality and reduce plastic waste. BASF manufactures light stabilisers at Pontecchio Marconi / Italy, Lampertheim / Germany, McIntosh, Alabama / USA and Puebla / Mexico.