Plasticulture Engineering and Technology

Cover
Half Title
Title Page
Copyright Page
Dedication
Table of Contents
Preface
Acknowledgments
About the Authors
Chapter 1 Introduction
1.1 Definition
1.2 Plasticulture Development
1.3 Film Manufacturing
1.4 Types and Quality of Plastics Used in Soil and Water Conservation
1.4.1 Micro-Irrigation
1.4.2 Protected Cultivation
1.4.3 Mulching
1.4.4 Reducing Water Usage in Agriculture
1.5 Production Agriculture and Postharvest Management
1.5.1 Postharvest and Storage Management
1.5.2 Fruit and Vegetable Packaging
1.5.3 Silage Cover
1.6 Preference of Plasticulture
1.7 Importance of Plastics
1.8 Types of Plastics
1.8.1 Thermoplastic and Thermosetting Plastics
1.8.2 Types of Thermoplastics and Their Uses
1.8.3 Types of Thermosetting Polymers and Their Uses
1.9 Plasticulture in India
1.10 How Plastic Is Used
1.11 Status of Plastics
1.12 Agencies Involved in Promotion of Plasticulture in India
1.12.1 Formation of NCPAH
Questions
Multiple-Choice Questions
Answers
References
Chapter 2 Plastic Film Properties
2.1 Introduction
2.2 Polymer
2.3 Classification of Polymers
2.3.1 Classification of Polymers Based on the Source of Availability
2.4 Thermoplastics
2.5 Polyethylene
2.5.1 Classification
2.6 Low-Density Polyethylene
2.6.1 Application of LDPE Areas
2.7 High-Density Polyethylene
2.8 LDPE Application for Film Blowing and Extrusion
2.9 Cross-Linked Polyethylene
2.10 General Properties and Test Method of LDPE
2.11 Polymerization
2.11.1 High-Pressure Polymerization
2.11.2 Natural Polymers
2.11.3 Semisynthetic Polymers
2.11.4 Synthetic Polymers
2.12 Classification of Polymers Based on the Structure
2.12.1 Linear-Chain Polymers
2.12.2 Branched-Chain Polymers
2.12.3 Cross-Linked Polymers
2.13 Classification of Polymers Based on Mode of Synthesis
2.13.1 Addition Polymers
2.14 Classification of Polymers Based on Monomers
2.14.1 Homomer
2.14.2 Heteropolymer or Copolymer
2.15 Classification Based on Molecular Forces
2.15.1 Elastomers
2.15.2 Fibers
2.15.3 Condensation Polymers
2.15.4 Thermosetting Polymers
2.16 Structure of Polymers
2.17 Types of Polymers
2.17.1 Classification Based on the Type of Backbone Chain
Organic Polymers
Inorganic Polymers
2.17.2 Classification on the Basis of Their Synthesis
2.18 Biodegradable Polymers
2.18.1 High-Temperature Polymers
2.19 Properties of Polymers
2.19.1 Physical Properties
2.19.1.1 Degree of Polymerization and Molecular Weight
2.19.1.2 Molecular Mass of Polymers
2.19.1.3 Number Average Molecular Weight
2.19.1.4 Weight Average Molecular Weight
2.19.1.5 Polydispersity Index or Heterogeneity Index
2.19.2 Mechanical Properties
2.19.2.1 Tensile Strength
2.19.2.2 Young’s Modulus of Elasticity
2.19.3 Transport Properties
2.19.4 Chemical Properties
2.19.5 Optical Properties
2.19.6 Electrical Properties
2.20 Polymer Extrusion
2.20.1 Variance Between Single- and Twin-Screw Extruders
2.20.2 Distinctive Zones of Single- and Twin-Screw Extruders
2.21 Die and Screw Parameters
Short Questions
Multiple-Choice Questions
Answer
References
Chapter 3 Micro-Irrigation
3.1 Introduction
3.2 History of Micro-Irrigation
3.2.1 General Principles of Micro-Irrigation
3.2.1.1 Wetting Patterns Under Micro-Irrigation
3.3 Advantages
3.3.1 Water Saving
3.3.2 Lower Water Application Rates
3.3.3 Improved Fertilizer and Chemical Application
3.3.4 Water Sources with High Salinity
3.3.5 Improved Crop Yield
3.3.6 Feasibility for Any Topography
3.3.7 Other Advantages
3.4 Disadvantages
3.4.1 Clogging
3.4.2 High Maintenance Costs
3.4.3 Salt Accumulation at Root Zone Periphery
3.4.4 Moisture Distribution
3.4.5 Restricted Root Development
3.4.6 High Cost of Drip Irrigation Systems
3.5 Need of Micro-Irrigation
3.6 Types of Micro-Irrigation
3.6.1 Online Emitter/Dripper System
3.6.2 Inline Drip System
3.6.2.1 J-Turbo Line
3.6.2.2 J-Turbo Aqua
3.6.2.3 Twin-Wall Drip Tap
3.6.3 Micro Jets
3.6.4 Mini Sprinklers
3.7 Drip Irrigation
3.7.1 Components of Drip Irrigation System
3.8 Sprinkler Irrigation
3.8.1 Components of Sprinkler Irrigation System
3.9 Installation of Micro-Irrigation Systems
3.10 Maintenance and Troubleshooting
3.11 Micro-Irrigation under Protected Cultivation
3.12 World Scenario of Micro-Irrigation System
3.13 Micro-Irrigation Potential in India
3.14 Conclusion
Questions
Multiple-Choice Questions
Answers
References
Chapter 4 Design and Components of Micro-Irrigation
4.1 Definition
4.2 General System Design
4.2.1 Initial Assessment
4.3 Objectives of Design
4.4 Design Inputs Parameters
4.5 Steps to Design Micro-Irrigation System
4.5.1 System Capacity
4.5.2 Selection of Emitting Devices
4.5.3 Selection and Design of Laterals
4.5.4 Design of Submain
4.5.5 Design of Main Line
4.5.6 Selection and Design of Filtration Unit
4.5.7 Selection and Design of Pump
4.6 Layout and Components
4.7 Design Process
4.7.1 Preparatory steps of the micro-irrigation system design process:
4.7.2 Steps for the general micro-irrigation system design process
4.8 Sources of Water
4.9 Types of Micro-Irrigation Systems
4.9.1 Bubbler Irrigation
4.9.2 Application and General Suitability
4.10 Advantages and Disadvantages
4.11 System Design
4.12 Drip Irrigation
4.12.1 Advantages
4.12.2 Surface and Subsurface Drip Irrigation Systems
4.12.3 Components of Drip Irrigation Systems
4.12.3.1 Drippers
4.13 Design of Drip Irrigation System
4.13.1 Discharge of Drippers
4.13.2 Water Distribution Network
4.13.3 Main and Submain Pipes
4.13.4 Laterals
4.13.5 Manifold
4.13.6 Pipeline Accessories and Fittings
4.13.7 Valves
4.13.7.1 Air Release and Vacuum Relief Valves
4.13.7.2 Pressure Relief Valves
4.13.7.3 Pressure-Regulating Valves
4.13.7.4 Nonreturn Valves
4.13.7.5 Flow Control Valves
4.13.8 Filtration Systems
4.13.8.1 Settling Basins
4.13.8.2 Gravel/Sand Media Filters
4.13.8.3 Screen Filters
4.13.8.4 Hydrocyclones or Centrifugal Sand Separator
4.14 Application of Fertilizers and Chemicals Using Drip Irrigation Systems
4.14.1 Equipment and Methods for Fertilizer Injection
4.14.2 Fertilizer Tank
4.14.3 Fertilizer Dissolver
4.14.4 Fertilizer Injection Devices
4.14.4.1 Location of Fertilizer Injection Systems
4.14.5 Computation of the Quantity of Fertilizer to Be Applied
4.15 Irrigation Water Requirement
4.16 Capacity of Drip Irrigation System
4.17 Sprinkler Irrigation
4.17.1 Adaptability of Sprinkler Irrigation
4.17.2 Advantages
4.17.3 Limitations
4.17.4 Components of Sprinkler Irrigation
4.18 Design of Sprinkler System
4.18.1 Uniformity Coefficient of Sprinklers
4.18.2 Capacity of Sprinkler Irrigation Systems
Questions
Multiple-Choice Questions
Answers
References
Chapter 5 Application of Plastic in Water Management
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Micro-irrigation
5.3 Moisture Conservation
5.4 Canal Lining
5.4.1 Seepage Reduction
5.4.2 Prevention of Waterlogging
5.4.3 Increase in Commanded Area
5.4.4 Increase in Channel Capacity
5.4.5 Less Maintenance
5.4.6 Safety Against Floods
5.4.7 Advantages of Canal Lining
5.5 Water Harvesting
5.6 Farm Ponds
5.6.1 Types of Ponds
5.6.1.1 Dugout Farm Ponds
5.6.1.2 Embankment-Type Farm Ponds
5.6.1.3 Spring- or Creek-Fed Ponds
5.6.1.4 Off-Stream Storage Ponds
5.6.2 Design of Farm Ponds
5.6.2.1 Site Selection
5.6.2.2 Capacity of the Pond
5.6.2.3 Design of Embankment
5.6.2.4 Design of Mechanical Spillway
5.6.2.5 Design of Emergency Spillway
5.7 Types of Polythene Sheets
5.8 Procedure of Poly Tank Construction
5.9 Farm Pond and Its Benefits
5.10 Lining of Water Bodies/Farm Ponds
5.10.1 Plastic Film as Lining Material
5.11 Role of Plastic Film (Agrifilm) in Lining
5.12 Future Thrust Area for Agrifilm Lining
5.13 Lined Ponds for Storage of Canal Water
5.14 Underground Pipeline System
5.14.1 Data Required for Underground Pipeline System Planning
5.14.2 Advantages of Underground Pipeline System
5.14.3 Application of Underground Pipeline System
5.15 Lysimeter
5.16 Application of Plastic in Agriculture Drainage
5.16.1 Design Parameters of the Subsurface Drainage System
5.17 Plastic Mulch
Questions
Multiple Choice Questions
Answer
References
Chapter 6 Soil Conditioning and Solarization Using Plastics
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Importance and Functions of Soil Conditioner
6.3 Types of Soil Conditioners
6.3.1 Organic Soil Conditioners
6.3.1.1 Composts
6.3.1.2 Farm Yard Manure (FYM)
6.3.1.3 Green Manure
6.3.1.4 Sewage Sludge
6.3.1.5 Crop Residues
6.3.1.6 Peat Moss
6.3.1.7 Biochar
6.3.2 Inorganic Soil Conditioners
6.3.3 Mineral Soil Conditioners
6.3.3.1 Gypsum
6.3.3.2 Lime
6.3.3.3 Fly Ash
6.3.4 Synthetic Binding Agents
6.3.4.1 Cationic Polymers
6.3.4.2 Anionic Polymers
6.4 Soil Solarization
6.4.1 Mechanisms of Solarization
6.4.1.1 Thermal Mechanism
6.4.1.2 Chemical Mechanism
6.4.1.3 Biological Mechanism
6.4.2 Factors Affecting Solarization
6.4.2.1 Soil Temperature
6.4.2.2 Soil Moisture
6.4.2.3 Climate and Weather
6.4.2.4 Plastic Film
6.4.3 Solarization Results
6.4.3.1 Increased Soil Temperature
6.4.3.2 Improved Soil Physical and Chemical Features
6.4.3.3 Control of Pests
6.4.3.4 Fungi and Bacteria
6.4.3.5 Nematodes
6.4.3.6 Weeds
6.4.3.7 Encouragement of Beneficial Soil Organisms
6.4.3.8 Increased Plant Growth
6.4.4 Improving Solarization Efficacy
6.4.5 Current Usage
Questions
Multiple-Choice Questions
Answers
References
Chapter 7 Irrigation Scheduling to Enhance Water Use Efficiency
7.1 Irrigation
7.2 Irrigation Scheduling
7.3 Full Irrigation
7.4 Deficit Irrigation
7.5 Irrigation Interval
7.5.1 Factors Affecting Irrigation Interval
7.6 Benefits of Irrigation Scheduling
7.7 Factors Affecting Irrigation Scheduling
7.8 Difficulties in Irrigation Scheduling at Farm Level
7.9 Irrigation Scheduling Methods
7.10 Observation of the Plants and Soils
7.10.1 Methods for Monitoring Soil Moisture
7.10.2 Soil Moisture Measuring Devices
7.10.3 Tensiometer
7.10.4 Soil Moisture Sensors
7.11 Resistance Devices
7.11.1 Gypsum Blocks
7.11.2 Granular Matrix Blocks
7.11.3 Neutron Probe
7.11.4 Gravimetric Method
7.11.5 Thermocouple Psychrometry
7.11.6 Stomata Resistance
7.11.7 Infrared Thermometer
7.11.8 Climatological Approach (IW:Cumulative Pan Evaporation (CPE) Ratio)
7.11.9 Canopy Temperature
7.11.10 Water Budget Method
7.12 Guidelines for Planning Irrigation Schedules
7.13 Nonpeak Irrigation Depth Adjustment
7.14 Calculation of Approximate Irrigation Schedules Using a Simple Process
7.15 Soil Water Constants, Root Depth of Crops and Irrigation Scheduling
7.16 Water Balance Approach
7.17 Criteria for Scheduling Irrigation
7.17.1 Soil Moisture as a Guide
7.17.2 Climate as a Guide
7.17.3 Plant as a Guide
7.18 Assessment of the Scheduling Criteria for Surface, Sprinkler, and Drip Irrigation
7.18.1 Surface Irrigation Scheduling
7.18.2 Sprinkler Irrigation Scheduling
7.18.3 Drip Irrigation Scheduling
7.19 Lysimeter Set-Up
7.20 Modeling Approach for Irrigation Scheduling
7.20.1 Reference Evapotranspiration (ET0)
7.20.2 Reference Evapotranspiration (ET0) Estimation Methodologies
7.20.3 Notation in Reference Evapotranspiration Determination
7.20.4 Crop Coefficient
7.20.5 Modification of the Standard Crop Coefficients
7.21 Future of Irrigation Scheduling – How to Take It Forward?
7.22 Numerical Problems
Questions
Multiple Choice Questions
Answer
References
Chapter 8 Plastics for Crop Protection
8.1 Introduction
8.2 Low Tunnels
8.3 Mulches
8.4 Nethouses
8.4.1 Structure
8.4.2 Advantages of Nethouses
8.4.3 Net Types
8.4.4 Types of Materials
8.4.5 Types of Threads and Texture
8.4.6 Mesh Size, Porosity, Solidity, and Weight
8.4.7 Mechanical Properties
8.4.8 Color
8.4.9 Transmissivity, Reflectivity, and Shading Factor
8.4.10 Air Permeability
8.5 Agricultural Application of Nets
8.5.1 Protection against Meteorological Hazards
8.5.2 Reduction of Solar Radiation
8.5.3 Protection against Insects
8.6 Anti-hail Net
8.6.1 Features of Anti-Hail Net
8.6.2 Anti-Hail Net Light Transmittance
8.7 Anti-Insect Net
8.7.1 Advantages
Short and Long Questions
Multiple-Choice Questions
Answers
References
Chapter 9 Plastics in Drying and Storage
9.1 Introduction
9.2 Drying of Crops
9.2.1 Low-Cost Poly House Technology for Drying
9.2.2 Poly House Drying
9.2.3 Refractive Window Drying
9.2.4 Open Sun Drying
9.3 Unit Operation after Harvesting
9.3.1 Field Handling of Crops
9.3.2 Removal of Field Heat
9.3.3 Field Curing
9.3.4 Grading and Sorting
9.3.5 Conveying
9.3.6 Storage
9.3.7 Transportation of Crops
9.4 Packaging Fresh and Processed crops
9.4.1 Classification of Packaging Systems
9.4.2 Plastic Bags
9.4.3 Shrink-Wrap
9.4.4 Rigid Plastic Packages
9.4.5 Biodegradable Films
9.4.6 Modified Atmospheric Packaging
Questions
Multiple-Choice Questions
Answers
References
Chapter 10 Plastics in Aquaculture
10.1 Introduction
10.2 Use of Plastics in Aquaculture
10.2.1 Fishnet
10.2.1.1 Types of Fishnets
10.2.2 Cages
10.2.3 Seed-Rearing Tanks
10.2.4 Pens
10.2.5 Trays Used for Packing
10.2.6 Films Used for Packing
10.2.7 Catfish Hatchery
10.2.8 Fish Feeder/Feed Dispenser
10.3 Poly House Ponds
10.4 Most Commonly Used Plastics in Aquaculture
10.5 How to Select the Plastics
10.5.1 Specific Gravity Test in Water
10.6 Plastic Packaging for Freshwater Fish Processing and Products
10.6.1 Fresh Fish Packaging
10.6.2 Evaluation of Polyethylene, Polypropylene, and Laminated Polypropylene Packaging Material in Fish Retailing
10.6.3 Evaluation of Polyethylene
10.6.4 Evaluation of Polypropylene Containers with Lid for Retail Marketing of Fish Cutup Parts during Chilled and Frozen Storage
10.6.5 Evaluation of PET Bottles for Packaging of Fish Pickle
10.7 Contribution of Aquaculture to Marine Litter
10.7.1 Abandoned, Lost, or Otherwise Discarded Fishing Gears
10.7.2 Plastic Debris from Aquaculture
Questions
Multiple-Choice Questions
Answers
References
Chapter 11 Plastics in Animal Husbandry
11.1 Introduction
11.2 Polymers and Their Products during Preharvest and Postharvest
11.3 Application of Plastics in Farms
11.4 Plastics in Animal Production
11.5 Conservation of Fodder
11.6 Silage
11.6.1 Silage Bags
11.6.2 Advantages of “Silage Bags”
11.7 Selection of Crops for Silage Making
11.8 Silo
11.8.1 Site for Construction of Silo
11.9 Kinds of Silos
11.9.1 Stack Silo
11.9.2 Bunker Silo
11.9.3 Pit/Trench Silo
11.9.4 Plastic Bag Silo
11.9.5 Fenced Silo (Framed Silo)
11.9.6 Tower Silo
11.10 Sealing Methods
11.10.1 Unsealed Silos
11.10.2 Lining Bunker Walls with Plastic
11.10.3 Plastic Film to Cover Silage
11.10.3.1 Plastic Film Color and Thickness
11.10.3.2 Oxygen Permeability of Plastic Film
11.11 Plastic for Livestock Shelter
11.11.1 Plastic Use in Animal Shelter
11.11.2 Advantages of Poly House as Livestock Shelter
Questions
Multiple-Choice Questions
Answers
References
Chapter 12 Plastics as Cladding Material
12.1 Introduction
12.2 Benefits of Protected Cultivation
12.3 Greenhouse
12.3.1 Advantages of Greenhouses
12.4 Types of Greenhouses
12.4.1 Greenhouse Types Based on Shape
12.4.1.1 Lean-to Greenhouse Type
12.4.1.2 Even-Span-Type Greenhouse
12.4.1.3 Uneven-Span-Type Greenhouse
12.4.1.4 Ridge and Furrow-Type Greenhouse
12.4.1.5 Sawtooth-Type Greenhouses
12.4.1.6 Quonset Greenhouse
12.4.1.7 Greenhouse-Type Based on Utility
12.4.1.8 Greenhouses Built for Active Heating
12.4.1.9 Greenhouses for Active Refrigeration
12.5 Greenhouse Type Based on Construction
12.5.1 Framed Timber Buildings
12.5.2 Structures Framed by Pipes
12.5.3 Structures Framed by Truss
12.6 Greenhouse Type Based on Covering Materials
12.6.1 Glass Greenhouses
12.6.2 Plastic Film Greenhouses
12.6.3 Rigid Panel Greenhouses
12.7 Types of Greenhouses Based on Cost of Installation
12.7.1 Low-Cost Poly House/Greenhouse
12.7.2 Medium-Cost Greenhouse
12.7.3 Hi-Tech Greenhouse
12.7.4 Miniature Forms of Greenhouses
12.7.4.1 Plastic Low Tunnels
12.7.4.2 Nethouses
12.7.4.3 Walk-in Tunnels
12.7.4.4 Shading Nets
Questions
Multiple-Choice Questions
Answers
References
Chapter 13 Plastics in Postharvest Management
13.1 Postharvest Management
13.2 Field Handling of Crops
13.3 Minimizing Field Heat
13.4 Packaging of Fresh and Processed Crops
13.4.1 Classification of Packaging Systems
13.4.2 Plastic Bags
13.4.3 Shrink-Wrap
13.4.4 Rigid Plastic Packages
13.4.5 Bulk Bins
13.4.6 Reusable Plastic Containers
13.4.7 Insert Trays
13.4.8 Clamp Shells
13.4.9 Sleeve Packs
13.4.10 Plastic Corrugated Boxes
13.4.11 Plastic Sacks
13.4.12 Plastic Punnets
13.4.13 Plastic Tension Netting
13.4.14 Plastic Pouch
13.4.15 EPS Tray/Stretch Wrapped
13.4.16 Leno Bag – 5 Kg
13.4.17 Consumer Packs for Whole Food Grains
13.4.18 Biodegradable Films
13.4.19 Modified Atmospheric Packaging
13.4.19.1 Major Requirements for Plastics Films for MAP
13.5 Storage
13.6 Transportation
Questions
Multiple-Choice Questions
Answers
References
Chapter 14 Plastics in Horticulture
14.1 Introduction
14.2 History
14.3 Nursery Management
14.3.1 Advanced Plastic-Growing Pots
14.3.2 Growing Media
14.3.3 Soilless Peat
14.3.4 Nursery Containers
14.3.5 Petroleum-Based Plastic Nursery Containers
14.3.6 Alternatives to Petroleum-Based Plastic Containers
14.3.7 Physical Properties of Nursery Containers
14.3.8 Pot-In-Pot
14.3.8.1 Air-Pruning Pots
14.3.8.2 Reusable and Recycling
14.3.8.3 Eco-Friendly Growing Containers
14.3.8.4 Bioplastic – An Alternative to Petroleum-Based Plastics
Questions
Multiple-Choice Questions
Answers
References
Chapter 15 Plastic Mulching
15.1 Introduction
15.2 Plastic Mulching
15.3 Classification and Color of Mulches
15.3.1 Color of Film
15.4 Advantages of Plastic Mulch
15.5 Limitations of Plastic Mulch
15.6 Areas of Application
15.7 Effect of Different Color Mulching
15.7.1 White Mulch
15.7.2 Black Mulch
15.7.3 Red Mulch
15.7.4 Green Mulch
15.7.5 Blue Mulch
15.8 Specifications
15.9 Parameters of Plastic Mulch
15.10 Selection of Mulch
15.11 Techniques of Mulch Laying
15.11.1 Mulching Techniques for Vegetables or Close-Spacing Crops
15.12 Irrigation Techniques for Mulching
15.13 Preventions in Mulch Laying
Questions
Multiple-Choice Questions
Answers
References
Chapter 16 Hydroponics and Vertical Farming
16.1 Introduction
16.2 Does Agriculture Need to Change?
16.3 Environmental Impacts of Agriculture
16.3.1 Water Use Problem
16.3.2 Water Use: Solution
16.3.3 Land Use: Problem
16.3.4 Land Use: Solution
16.3.5 Chemical Use: Problem
16.3.6 Chemical Use: Solution
16.4 Soilless Cultivation
16.4.1 History of Soilless Cultivation
16.4.2 Advantages of Soilless Cultivation
16.4.3 World Scenario of Soilless Cultivation
16.5 Hydroponics
16.5.1 Types of Hydroponic Setups
16.6 Advantages of Hydroponics
16.7 Disadvantages of Hydroponics
16.8 Aeroponics
16.8.1 Equipment Considerations
16.8.2 How Does Aeroponics System Work?
16.8.3 Types of Aeroponic Systems
16.8.4 What Can Be Grown with Aeroponics?
16.8.5 Advantages of Aeroponics
16.8.6 Drawbacks of Aeroponics
16.9 Feasibility and Suitability of These Technologies in Indian Background
Long Answer-Type Questions
Short Answer-Type Questions
Multiple-Choice Questions
Answers
References
Chapter 17 Design of Protected Structures
17.1 Introduction
17.2 World Scenario
17.3 Principles of Protective Cultivation
17.4 Selection of Film for Poly House
17.5 Benefits of Greenhouse Technology
17.6 Effect of Wind on Structural Design of Poly House
17.7 Constraints of Climate in Hilly and Mountainous Region
17.8 Protected Vegetable Cultivation at High Altitudes
17.9 Low-Cost Poly House Technology for Vegetable Production
17.10 Site Selection
17.11 Prospects for Protected Cultivation
17.12 Principles of Greenhouse Design
17.13 Site Characteristics that Affect the Design
17.13.1 Wind
17.13.2 Climate (Altitude)
17.13.3 Snow
17.14 Different Types of Poly Houses
17.15 Greenhouse Technology for Cold Arid Regions of Ladakh
17.16 Vegetable Production
17.17 Collection of Solar Radiation
17.17.1 Thermal Storage and Insulation
17.17.1.1 Double Wall
17.17.1.2 Color
17.17.1.3 Roof
17.17.1.4 Ground
17.17.1.5 Door
17.17.1.6 Ventilation
17.18 Low-Cost Poly House Technology for Drying
17.19 Low-Cost Poly Tunnel Drier
17.20 Walnut Propagation under Poly House
17.21 Design Parameter of Greenhouse
17.21.1 Dead Loads
17.21.1.1 Weight of Roof Covering
17.21.1.2 Weight of Purlin
17.21.1.3 Weight of Truss
17.21.1.4 Live Loads
17.21.1.5 Wind Loads
17.21.1.6 Design Wind Pressure
17.21.1.7 Wind Load on Individual Members
17.21.1.8 Snow Loads
17.21.1.9 Method of Joint
17.21.1.10 Procedure for Analysis
17.21.1.11 Load Combinations
17.21.1.12 Design Strength of Tension Member
17.21.1.13 Design Strength due to Rupture of Critical Section
17.21.1.14 Design Strength due to Block Shear
17.21.1.15 Design Strength of Compression Member
17.21.1.16 Slenderness Ratio
17.21.1.17 Greenhouse Microclimate
17.21.1.18 Functional Design of Greenhouse
17.21.1.19 Greenhouse Orientation
Short-Answer Type
Long-Answer Type
Multiple-Choice Questions
Answers
References
Chapter 18 Application of Plastic in Farm Machinery
18.1 Introduction
18.2 Materials Used
18.2.1 Advantages
18.3 Plastic Bearings Withstand High Forces
18.4 Plastic Types
18.5 Application
18.5.1 Agriculture Injection Molding
18.6 Other Plastic Applications in Farm Machinery
18.6.1 Plastics in Mulching Machines
18.6.2 Sprayer Tanks
18.6.3 Knapsack Sprayer
18.6.4 Poultry Feeders
18.6.5 Fertilizers Spreader
18.6.6 Hand Tools
18.7 Bicycle Sprayer
18.8 Saffron Corm Grader
18.9 Solar-Operated Knapsack Sprayers
18.10 Improved Sickle
18.11 Zenoah Reciprocator
18.12 Tree Planting Auger
18.13 Budding Cum Grafting Knife
18.14 Pruning Knife
18.15 Grafting Tools (Omega Cut)
18.16 Pruning Saw
18.17 Tree Climber
18.18 Trowels (Planting/Digging)
18.19 Rake (Leveling)
18.20 Watering Can
18.21 Aerator
18.22 Wheelbarrow
Questions
References
Chapter 19 Smart Farming Using Internet of Things
19.1 Introduction
19.2 IoT in Agriculture
19.3 IoT Sensors for Agriculture
19.4 IoT Software for Agriculture
19.5 Some Applications of IoT in Agriculture
19.5.1 Irrigation
19.5.2 Water Quality Monitoring
19.5.3 Soil Monitoring
19.5.4 Greenhouse Condition Monitoring
19.5.5 Pest and Disease Control
19.6 Benefits of IoT in Agriculture
19.7 Automation in Water Management
19.8 Conclusion
Short Answer-Type-Questions
Long Answer-Type Questions
Multiple-Choice Questions
Answers
References
Sample Question Papers
Index