BASF offers solution for producers of agricultural plastics focused on cotton

BASF offers solutions in plastic additives for agriculture, including cotton cultivation. The main application for this type of crop is plastic films for baling during cotton harvesting, known as cotton wraps, which package and store large volumes of the product. This automatic baling technique during the harvest unloading process prevents losses, increases agility and productivity, and protects the cotton, including against adverse weather conditions, increasing its quality.

Agricultural plastics are vulnerable to UV radiation, weather conditions and chemicals. “To extend the durability of these materials and ensure protection, BASF has a broad portfolio of stabilizing additive solutions for films aimed at resin producers, masterbatch producers and converters,” explains Daniella La Torre (pictured), technical specialist for Agricultural Plastics Additives at BASF in the Americas.

The light stabilizer Tinuvin 494 AR, for example, acts as an excellent UV stabilizer and additionally ensures resistance to crop protection chemicals. It also contributes to the production process of agricultural film by maintaining its mechanical properties. The newly launched Tinuvin NOR 211 AR is also an effective value solution for agricultural plastics exposed to intense UV radiation, high heat and severe agrochemical attack.

This type of baling is also sustainable, as the polyethylene plastic film is 100% recyclable. BASF’s commitment to innovation and sustainability is reflected in the expansion of its NOR platform. These products are part of the Valeras portfolio, which uses renewable electricity in production and optimizes product shape to reduce energy consumption and emissions.