Solar Radiation Transmittance Characteristics of Textile Woven Fabrics suitable for Greenhouse covering Materials

Nowadays, greenhouse covering materials have a vital role in terms of a protective cultivation process. Many farmers use polyfilms, rigid or semi-rigid plastic panels, and glazing materials as greenhouse covering materials in the present scenario. However, these plastic covering materials are known for their high cost, short service life, and cause of harmful environment. Solar transmittance property is one of the main criteria for choosing any greenhouse covering materials. This study prepares various woven fabrics made of polyester, cotton, and polyester–cotton blend yarns. Their solar transmittance characteristic is analyzed to develop fabric and compare it with a polyethylene film already used as a greenhouse cladding material to substitute for plastic materials. The solar transmission of polyester fabric is achieved as high as 70% in the photosynthesis active radiation, suitable for a commercial greenhouse material. In addition, the polyester fabric has tensile strength and extension much higher than that of commercial plastic greenhouse material.