Degradation characterisation of agricultural low-density polyethylene films

Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) film is currently the most widespread greenhouse covering material in the countries of the Mediterranean region. The exposure of LDPE film to weathering conditions, especially to solar irradiation in the range of 290-400 nm, affects its chemical structure and consequently its mechanical and physical properties. At present (current practice), the final characterisation of degradation of LDPE films is mainly based on the changes in percentage elongation at break. However, it is considered more realistic to base the characterisation of degradation of LDPE films on a combination of quantitative criteria. These criteria, analysed in the present review paper, represent critical properties, which should be measured in a very specific and well-harmonised way under pre-defined conditions. (C) 2004 Silsoe Research Institute. All rights reserved Published by Elsevier Ltd.