The recently enacted Greenhouse Light Abatement Bylaw in Ontario, but also other light pollution concerns across North America have created issues for growers to choose between light pollution vs excess heat inside their greenhouse. Closing traditional light abatement screens during the night means supplemental lighting is creating excess heat which can have an adverse effect on the greenhouse climate. Ventilation is vital for growing healthy plants, without this ability the risk of damaging the crops is high.
Therefore, growers were asking for a light abatement screen that complies with the light abatement regulation and at the same time helps to transfer excess heat and humidity without gapping.
In 2019, Phormium has launched the screen PhormiTex Noctis.
Developed in the Belgium-based Phormium Research Centre, PhormiTex Noctis, with its unique woven structure allows moisture and excessive heat permeate through the screen, letting the grower create an optimal growth climate.
"Compared to other traditional knitted screens, PhormiTex Noctis will allow up to 19% more transmission of excess heat and humidity through the screen," the team says. "The white underside maximises light reflection thus optimizing the efficiency of supplemental lighting."
Phormium recommends the flexible, light tight PhormiTex Noctis V as a gable screen to complete the installation, to maximise prevention of light pollution and optimise light reflection.
Both screens are fire retardant.
Phormium