Evaluation of insect-proof agricultural nets with enhanced functionality

Abstract

Agricultural nets are considered as an efficient means of crop protection with various types of agricultural nets designed and used for specific applications. The efficiency of an agricultural net depends on its functionalities and the design of the protecting system. Insect-proof nets, mainly due to their dense mesh structure, may particularly adversely affect the microclimate of the protected cultivation. Thus, manufacturers of agricultural nets focus on the development of novel types of insect-proof nets in order to alleviate this problem. In this analysis, the functionalities and quality characteristics of different types of insect-proof nets have been investigated. Samples of seven different nets were tested. Four of them were typical insect-proof nets designed for protecting vegetable crops whilst the other three were innovative insect-proof nets, especially designed to enhance the airflow through them and/or provide optical exclusion of the pests through incorporated additives that block specific Ultraviolet (UV)–visible radiation wavelengths. The selected functionalities of the nets were evaluated for their aerodynamic, radiometric and mechanical properties. Results from all seven nets were compared for the identification and evaluation of possible improved functionalities and/or drawbacks. Laboratory testing confirmed enhanced ventilation rates of the innovative insect-proof nets, however they were associated with inferior mechanical durability. Insect-proof nets with optical exclusion additives should be applied with caution to avoid excessive shading. The outcomes of this work may be utilised for the optimisation of the functionalities of the specific insect-proof nets. • Novel insect-proof nets with improved aerodynamic and insect proof characteristics. • Aerodynamic, radiometric and mechanical properties evaluated in the laboratory. • Identification of pros and cons of novel nets versus conventional types. • Enhanced ventilation of insect-proof nets results in declined mechanical properties. • Optical exclusion insect-proof nets block UV-PAR radiation and increase shading.