Lumigrey® IR screens have become available a few years ago.
Left: Lumigrey® screens with spinach
Lumigrey® are not simple shading screens as, thanks to their aluminium sheets, they are true IR screens. IR is a component of sunlight that transmits energy mainly through heat, which can be trapped in greenhouses or tunnels. Lumigrey® can keep this excess heat outside the greenhouses. They have therefore not only an air conditioning function, but also has a significant influence on visible light, which is reflected by the sheets.
The traditional remedy was to "soil" the plastic film to increase its shading effect, though this resulted in non-homogeneous lighting with no effect on the temperature. It also reduced the life of the plastic film.
Its ability to maintain the temperature at a uniform level is very important for fresh-cut salad crops.
Lumigrey 30% tunnels
During these long hot months of 2017, Sicily took great advantage of Lumigrey® with increased tomato and pepper applications. The screens prevent scalding damage without affecting colouring and improving shelf-life. This way, the produce is suitable for exports as well.
The soft fruit sector has also shown great interest over the past few years. Lumigrey® enables the lowering of leaf temperature, which is important as quality may be affected thus damaging yields. In addition, this technology means production can carry on even in the warmest months.
Two raspberry greenhouses. On the left, plants covered only with plastic film (stressed plants, discoloured leaves). On the right, plants covered with Lumigrey® 40 screened (well-balanced plants, bright green leaves, better development).
Another advantage is the fact that plants need less water and that operators can work better in improved working conditions.
Lumigrey with reinforcement to extend their life.
The staff at Agrintech are at your disposal for further information and to provide technical assistance and advice.
For further information:
Agrintech srl
Tel.: (+39) 0828 332978
Fax: (+39) 0828 361955
Email: info@agrintech.it
Web: www.agrintech.it