EN 13206:2017+A1:2020

Plastics - Thermoplastic covering films for use in agriculture and horticulture

See title

Kunststoffe - Thermoplastische Abdeckfolien für den Einsatz in der Landwirtschaft und im Gartenbau

Diese Europäische Norm legt die Anforderungen an maßliche, mechanische, optische und thermische Eigen¬schaften von thermoplastischen Folien zur Verwendung als Abdeckung für ständige oder temporäre Gewächs¬häuser sowie begehbare Tunnel und niedrige Tunnel zur Verfrühung und teilweisen Verfrühung im Gemüse , Obst  und Blumenanbau fest.
Flachgelegte perforierte Abdeckfolien werden ebenfalls durch den Anwendungsbereich dieser Europäischen Norm abgedeckt.
Sie legt eine Klassifikation bezüglich der Beständigkeit von Abdeckfolien und der in dieser Norm in Bezug genommenen Prüfverfahren fest.
Außerdem legt diese Europäische Norm auch Prüfverfahren für die Bestimmung des Chlor  und Schwefel-gehaltes von gebrauchten Folien fest.
Diese Europäische Norm gilt für thermoplastische Abdeckfolien auf der Grundlage von Polyethylen- und/oder Ethylen Copolymer Werkstoffen mit Dicken von 20 µm bis mehr als 250 µm, die für den Einsatz in der Landwirtschaft und im Gartenbau in Europa bestimmt sind und zu folgenden Arten gehören: nicht thermische Folien, thermisch klare Folien und thermisch diffuse Folien.
Darüber hinaus legt diese Europäische Norm Hinweise für den Einsatz, die Anwendung und die Entsorgung von Abdeckfolien fest. Sie legt die üblicherweise erwartete Lebensdauer sowie Regeln fest, die die Bewertung der im Falle eines Versagens noch vor Ablauf der Mindesthaltbarkeitsdauer verbleibenden Nutzbarkeit ermöglicht.
ANMERKUNG   Diese Regeln ermöglichen die Abschätzung des Restwertes der Folien. Diese Vorgaben gelten nur für die Folie selbst und den an ihr eingetretenen Schäden. Alle sonstigen Probleme fallen in den Anwendungsbereich der branchenüblichen Praktiken und der allgemeinen Verkaufs  und Lieferbedingungen.

Plastiques - Films de couverture thermoplastiques pour utilisation en agriculture et horticulture

Polimerni materiali - Prekrivne plastomerne folije za uporabo v kmetijstvu in vrtnarstvu

Ta dokument določa zahteve, povezane z dimenzijskimi, mehanskimi, optičnimi in termičnimi lastnostmi plastomernih folij, ki se uporabljajo za pokrivanje trajnih ali začasnih rastlinjakov in pohodnih tunelov ter zastirk, ki se uporabljajo za pospeševanje rasti in klitja zelenjave, sadja in cvetja. Ta evropski standard zajema tudi plosko ležeče prekrivne folije. Določa razvrstitev za trajnost prekrivnih folij in preskusne metode iz tega standarda. Ta evropski standard določa tudi preskusne metode za določanje vsebnosti klora in žvepla v folijah, ki so predmet uporabe. Ta evropski standard se uporablja za plastomerne prekrivne folije za uporabo v kmetijstvu in vrtnarstvu v Evropi z razponom debeline od 20 μm do več kot 250 μm na osnovi polietilenskih in/ali etilenskih kopolimernih materialov naslednjih vrst: atermične folije, termične prosojne folije in termične difuzne folije. Ta evropski standard določa tudi smernice za namestitev, uporabo in odlaganje prekrivnih folij. Opredeljuje običajno pričakovano življenjsko dobo in pravila za ocenjevanje preostalih možnosti uporabe v primeru poškodbe pred običajnim datumom konca uporabe.

General Information

• Status: Withdrawn
• Publication Date: 21-Jan-2020
• Withdrawal Date: 22-Sep-2025
• ICS: 65.040.30 - Greenhouses and other installations
• ICS: 83.140.10 - Films and sheets
• Technical Committee: CEN/TC 249 - Plastics
• Drafting Committee: CEN/TC 249/WG 7 - Thermoplastic films for use in agriculture
• Current Stage: 9960 - Withdrawal effective - Withdrawal
• Start Date: 20-Aug-2025
• Completion Date: 23-Sep-2025
• Ref Project: SIST EN 13206:2017+A1:2020 - Plastics - Thermoplastic covering films for use in agriculture and horticulture

Relations

• Merged From: EN 13206:2017 - Plastics - Thermoplastic covering films for use in agriculture and horticulture
• Effective Date: 19-Jan-2023
• Merged From: EN 13206:2017/FprA1 - Plastics - Thermoplastic covering films for use in agriculture and horticulture
• Effective Date: 19-Jan-2023
• Replaced By: EN 13206:2025 - Plastics - Thermoplastic covering films for use in agriculture and horticulture
• Effective Date: 28-Jan-2023

Standards Content (Sample)

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-marec-2020
Polimerni materiali - Prekrivne plastomerne folije za uporabo v kmetijstvu in
vrtnarstvu
Plastics - Thermoplastic covering films for use in agriculture and horticulture
Kunststoffe - Thermoplastische Abdeckfolien für den Einsatz in der Landwirtschaft und
im Gartenbau
Plastiques - Films de couverture thermoplastiques pour utilisation en agriculture et
horticulture
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 13206:2017+A1:2020
ICS:
65.040.30 Rastlinjaki in druge naprave Greenhouses and other
installations
83.140.10 Filmi in folije Films and sheets
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

EN 13206:2017+A1
EUROPEAN STANDARD
NORME EUROPÉENNE
January 2020
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
ICS 65.040.30; 83.140.10 Supersedes EN 13206:2017
English Version
Plastics - Thermoplastic covering films for use in
agriculture and horticulture
Plastiques - Films de couverture thermoplastiques Kunststoffe - Thermoplastische Abdeckfolien für den
pour utilisation en agriculture et horticulture Einsatz in der Landwirtschaft und im Gartenbau
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 14 November 2016 and includes Amendment 1 approved by CEN on 11
November 2019.
CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this
European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references
concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN
member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by
translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management
Centre has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and
United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION

EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2020 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 13206:2017+A1:2020 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

Contents Page
European foreword . 4
1 Scope . 5
2 Normative references. 5
3 Terms and definitions . 6
4 Types and use . 7
5 Material . 8
6 Durability . 8
7 Requirements . 9
7.1 General requirements . 9
7.2 Requirement for appearance . 11
8 Test methods . 12
8.1 Determination of thickness . 12
8.2 Determination of width . 12
8.3 Determination of tensile characteristics . 12
8.4 Determination of impact resistance . 12
8.5 Determination of elongation under a steady load (creep test) . 13
8.6 Determination of visible light transmission . 15
8.7 Determination of haze . 15
8.8 Determination of IR effectiveness (η ) (thermal clear and thermal diffusing films) . 15
ir
8.9 Determination of resistance to weathering . 16
8.10 Determination of the chlorine content of used films . 17
8.11 Determination of the sulfur content of used films . 17
8.12 Determination of the roll/sheet length . 17
9 Film acceptance, storage and handling . 18
9.1 Acceptance . 18
9.2 Storage and handling of rolls . 18
10 Designation . 18
11 Marking . 19
12 Instructions for installation, use of covering films . 19
13 Instructions for disposal and end-of-life of covering films . 19
Annex A (informative) Exposure to other light sources . 20
Annex B (informative) Empirical correlation between durations of covering films exposed to
artificial weathering and a natural exposure. 24
Annex C (normative) Determination of the chlorine content by coulometry . 27
Annex D (normative) Determination of the sulfur content by ICP- OES technique . 31
Annex E (informative) Alternative method for the determination of chlorine and sulfur contents
by X-ray fluorescence . 35
Annex F (informative) Alternative methods for the determination of sulfur content by
ultraviolet fluorescence method or by coulometry . 37
Annex G (informative) Guidance for installation, use and disposal of covering films . 42
Annex H (informative) Industrial standard formats of films . 50
Bibliography . 51

European foreword
This document (EN 13206:2017+A1:2020) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 249
“Plastics”, the secretariat of which is held by NBN.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an
identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by July 2020 and conflicting national standards shall be
withdrawn at the latest by July 2020.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CEN shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This document includes Amendment 1 approved by CEN on 11 November 2019.
This document supersedes !EN 13206:2017".
The start and finish of text introduced or altered by amendment is indicated in the text by tags !".
The following technical changes have been made in comparison to EN 13206:2001:
— a minimum thickness of the film is fixed;
— the test methods have been updated as appropriate;
— this revision specifies also test methods for the determination of the chlorine and sulfur contents of
the films subjected to use and defines guidelines for installation, use and disposal;
— the classification for the durability of the covering films is extended to a further class.
According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organisations of the
following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria,
Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland,
Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of
North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the
United Kingdom.
1 Scope
This European Standard specifies the requirements related to dimensional, mechanical, optical and
thermal characteristics of thermoplastic films used for covering permanent or temporary greenhouses
and walking tunnels and low tunnels used for forcing and semi-forcing vegetable, fruit and flower crops.
Lay-flat perforated cover films are also in the scope of this European Standard.
It specifies a classification for the durability of covering films and the test methods referred to in this
standard.
This European Standard specifies also test methods for the determination of the chlorine and sulfur
contents of films subjected to use.
This European Standard is applicable to thermoplastic covering films used in agriculture and
horticulture in Europe, in the thickness range 20 µm up to more than 250 µm, based on polyethylene
and/or ethylene copolymers materials, of the following types: non-thermal films, thermal clear films
and thermal diffusing films.
This European Standard also defines guidance for installation, use and disposal of covering films. It
defines the conventional expected lifetime, as well as rules that allow evaluating the remaining use
potential in the event of a failure before the normal end-of-use date.
NOTE These rules allow estimating the residual value of the films. These provisions only apply to the film
itself and the damage it has undergone. Any other problem falls within the scope of professional practices and the
general terms and conditions of sale.
2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and are
indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated
references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 10244-2, Steel wire and wire products - Non-ferrous metallic coatings on steel wire - Part 2: Zinc or
zinc alloy coatings
EN 13031-1, Greenhouses - Design and construction - Part 1: Commercial production greenhouses
EN 16472, Plastics - Method for artificial accelerated photoageing using medium pressure mercury vapour
lamps
EN ISO 527-1, Plastics - Determination of tensile properties - Part 1: General principles (ISO 527-1)
EN ISO 527-3, Plastics - Determination of tensile properties - Part 3: Test conditions for films and sheets
(ISO 527-3)
!EN ISO 4892-1, Plastics - Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources - Part 1: General guidance
(ISO 4892-1)"
EN ISO 4892-2:2013, Plastics - Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources - Part 2: Xenon-arc lamps
(ISO 4892-2:2013)
EN ISO 4892-3:2016, Plastics - Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources - Part 3: Fluorescent UV
lamps (ISO 4892-3)
EN ISO 7765-1:2004, Plastics film and sheeting - Determination of impact resistance by the free-falling
dart method - Part 1: Staircase methods (ISO 7765-1:1988)
ISO 4591, Plastics - Film and sheeting - Determination of average thickness of a sample, and average
thickness and yield of a roll, by gravimetric techniques (gravimetric thickness)
ISO 4592, Plastics - Film and sheeting - Determination of length and width
ISO 4593, Plastics - Film and sheeting - Determination of thickness by mechanical scanning
ASTM D 1003-13, Standard Test Method for Haze and Luminous Transmittance of Transparent Plastics
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
• IEC Electropedia: available at http://www.electropedia.org/
3.1
width
overall width of a film when laid flat
Note 1 to entry: It is expressed in millimetres.
3.2
nominal width
width of a film, as declared by the manufacturer/supplier
Note 1 to entry: It is expressed in millimetres.
3.3
nominal thickness
thickness of a film, as declared by the manufacturer/supplier
Note 1 to entry: It is expressed in micrometres (μm).
3.4
roll length
largest dimension of the film corresponding to the length of the unwinded roll
Note 1 to entry: It is expressed in metres.
3.5
nominal length
length of a film roll or sheet, as declared by the manufacturer/supplier
Note 1 to entry: It is expressed in metres.
3.6
nominal mass
mass of a roll or sheet, as declared by the manufacturer/supplier
Note 1 to entry: It is expressed in kilograms.
3.7
longitudinal direction
MD
direction parallel to the roll length, corresponding to the extrusion direction
3.8
transverse direction
TD
direction parallel to the width (at right angle to the length)
3.9
conventional expected lifetime
expected lifetime defined by agreement between the manufacturer/supplier and the customer or, by
default, the minimum use duration that the film needs to satisfy
Note 1 to entry: It is expressed in years, months or seasons.
3.10
actual useful lifetime
time interval defined as beginning from the installation date of a film until its removal or an earlier date
in case of its failure
Note 1 to entry: It is expressed in months, years or seasons.
3.11
use ratio
ratio of the actual useful lifetime of a film to its conventional expected lifetime
Note 1 to entry: It is expressed as a dimensionless ratio or as a percentage (%).
3.12
remaining use potential
difference between the conventional expected lifetime of a film and its actual useful lifetime
Note 1 to entry: It is expressed in months.
3.13
radiant exposure
H
time integral of irradiance, measured in joules per square metre (J/m )
[SOURCE: ISO 9370:2009, definition 3.27 [1]]
4 Types and use
The different types of covering films, their optical and thermal characteristics and use are given in
Table 1.
Table 1 — Characteristics and use of covering films
Type Optical and thermal Use
characteristics
Non-thermal (NTh) Low IR effectiveness Forcing and semi forcing crops
Thermal clear (ThC) High transparency Same use as normal film, when
higher IR effectiveness is requested
High IR effectiveness
Thermal diffusing Diffusing light Same use as normal film, when
(ThD) higher IR effectiveness and diffusing
High IR effectiveness
light effect are requested
5 Material
Covering films according to this standard are usually manufactured from:
— low density polyethylene (PE-LD), linear low density polyethylene (PE-LLD) and their blends;
— ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers (EVAC) and their blends with PE-LD or PE-LLD;
— ethylene butyl acrylate copolymers (EBA) and their blends with PE-LD or PE-LLD.
6 Durability
The durability of covering films is characterized by the class N, A, B, C, D, E or F. This classification, given
in Table 2, is depending on the duration of exposure of the film to an artificial weathering using xenon-
arc lamps according to 8.9, which induces a decrease of the value of tensile strain at break equal or less
than 50 % of the initial value.
The class of durability shall be declared by the manufacturer.
!
Table 2 — Resistance to weathering classification
Class Minimum duration of exposure
h
At irradiance At irradiance
(narrowband – 340 nm) (narrowband – 340 nm)
2 2
0,35 W/(m ·nm) 0,51 W/(m ·nm)
N 400 280
A 2 000 1 400
B 3 500 2 450
C 5 400 4 070
D 6 800 4 670
E 8 500 5 830
F 10 700 7 350
"
For films intended to be used outside of Europe, longer durations of exposures than this for Class F can
be required. In this case, the minimum duration of exposure shall be defined by agreement between the
manufacturer/supplier and the customer.
Other light sources may be used provided that a correlation between the test results obtained with
these light sources and these obtained after a natural exposure can be demonstrated. This may be
useful when the durations of the exposure to xenon-arc lamps as defined in Table 2 are too long. Details
of these methods are given in Annex A (informative).
In case of dispute, the exposure to xenon-arc lamps according to 8.9 and the classification according to
Table 2 shall be used.
!NOTE An empirical correlation between durability of covering films for greenhouses exposed to artificial
weathering and natural exposure is given in Annex B (informative). The correlation study has been performed at
an irradiance in narrow band (340 nm) equal to 0,35 W/(m ⋅nm)."
7 Requirements
7.1 General requirements
Non-thermal films, thermal clear films and thermal diffusing films shall fulfil the requirements of
Tables 3 to 5, respectively.
Table 3 — Requirements for non-thermal films
Unit Nominal thickness
Test method
Characteristics
a b c d Subclause
μm ≥ 200
≥ 20 ≥ 60 ≥ 100 ≥ 150
Appearance - Shall conform to 7.2 7.2
Dimensional characteristics
Tolerance of average thickness/nominal
% ±5 8.1
thickness
Tolerance of single point
% - 15, +25 8.1
thickness/nominal thickness
Width tolerance/nominal width
% 0, +4
Flat film 8.2
% 0, +2,4
Tubular film
Tolerance roll length/nominal length % 0, +4 8.12
Mechanical characteristics on unexposed film
Tensile stress at break (MD, TD) MPa ≥ 19 8.3
Tensile strain at break (MD, TD) % ≥ 250 ≥ 300 ≥ 350 ≥ 400 ≥ 450 8.3
Impact resistance
Flat area g ≥ 100 ≥ 150 ≥ 300 ≥ 350 ≥ 450 8.4.2
Fold area g ≥ 75 ≥ 100 ≥ 150 ≥ 200 ≥ 250 8.4.3
Optical characteristic on unexposed film
Visible light transmission % ≥ 90 ≥ 88 ≥ 88 ≥ 85 ≥ 85 8.6
a
20 μm ≤ nominal thickness < 60 μm.
b
60 μm ≤ nominal thickness < 100 μm.
c
100 μm ≤ nominal thickness < 150 μm.
d
150 μm ≤ nominal thickness < 200 μm.
Table 4 — Requirements for thermal clear films
Unit Nominal thickness
Test method
Characteristics
a b c d Subclause
μm ≥ 200
≥ 25 ≥ 60 ≥ 100 ≥ 150
Appearance - Shall conform to 7.2 7.2
Dimensional characteristics
Tolerance of average thickness/nominal
% ±5 8.1
thickness
Tolerance of single point
% - 15, +25 8.1
thickness/nominal thickness
Width tolerance/nominal width
% 0, +4
Flat film 8.2
% 0, +2,4
Tubular film
Tolerance roll length/nominal length % 0, +4 8.12
Mechanical characteristics on unexposed film
Tensile stress at break (MD, TD) MPa ≥ 20 8.3
Tensile strain at break (MD, TD) % ≥ 300 ≥ 350 ≥ 400 ≥ 450 ≥ 550 8.3
Impact resistance
Flat area g ≥ 150 ≥ 250 ≥ 350 ≥ 500 ≥ 650 8.4.2
Fold area g ≥ 75 ≥ 100 ≥ 200 ≥ 350 ≥ 400 8.4.3
Elongation under a steady load (MD) % ≤ 30 ≤ 30 ≤ 30 ≤ 30 ≤ 30 8.5
Optical characteristic on unexposed film
Visible light transmission % ≥ 92 ≥ 90 ≥ 90 ≥ 88 ≥ 88 8.6
Haze % ≤ 20 ≤ 25 ≤ 25 ≤ 30 ≤ 30 8.7
IR effectiveness % ≥ 40 ≥ 50 ≥ 55 ≥ 65 ≥ 75 8.8
a
25 μm ≤ nominal thickness < 60 μm.
b
60 μm ≤ nominal thickness < 100 μm.
c
100 μm ≤ nominal thickness < 150 μm.
d
150 μm ≤ nominal thickness < 200 μm.
Table 5 — Requirements for thermal diffusing films
Unit Nominal thickness
Test method
Characteristics
a b c d Subclause
μm ≥ 200
≥ 25 ≥ 60 ≥ 100 ≥ 150
Appearance - Shall conform to 7.2 7.2
Dimensional characteristics
Tolerance of average thickness/nominal
% ±5 8.1
thickness
Tolerance of single point
% - 15, +25 8.1
thickness/nominal thickness
Width tolerance/nominal width
% 0, +4
Flat film 8.2
% 0, +2,4
Tubular film
Tolerance roll length/nominal length % 0, +4 8.12
Mechanical characteristics on unexposed film
Tensile stress at break (MD, TD) MPa ≥ 20 8.3
Tensile strain at break (MD, TD) % ≥ 200 ≥ 220 ≥ 350 ≥ 400 ≥ 500 8.3
Impact resistance
Flat area g ≥ 100 ≥ 160 ≥ 300 ≥ 400 ≥ 500 8.4.2
Fold area g ≥ 75 ≥ 110 ≥ 200 ≥ 250 ≥ 350 8.4.3
Elongation under a steady load (MD) % ≤ 30 ≤ 30 ≤ 30 ≤ 30 ≤ 30 8.5
Optical characteristic on unexposed film
Visible light transmission % ≥ 88 ≥ 85 ≥ 85 ≥ 80 ≥ 80 8.6
Haze % ≥ 30 ≥ 30 ≥ 30 ≥ 35 ≥ 35 8.7
IR effectiveness % ≥ 40 ≥ 55 ≥ 60 ≥ 70 ≥ 75 8.8
a
25 μm ≤ nominal thickness < 60 μm.
b
60 μm ≤ nominal thickness < 100 μm.
c
100 μm ≤ nominal thickness < 150 μm.
d
150 μm ≤ nominal thickness < 200 μm.
7.2 Requirement for appearance
The free edges of the roll shall be sealed with adhesive tape or by some other similar means, in order to
prevent its unwinding.
The edges shall be properly in line and there shall be sufficient tension to prevent the layers of the roll
from transverse slipping when it is handled.
The film shall be homogeneous and free from visible defects which may affect the fitness for purpose of
the film; check by unrolling at least 2 m of the film and examining it against the light holding it tight at
arm's length.
8 Test methods
8.1 Determination of thickness
The thickness of single points of the film shall be determined in accordance with ISO 4593. The average
thickness of the film shall be determined in accordance with ISO 4591 or ISO 4593. Testing shall be
performed using one strip of film cut in transverse direction of the roll (TD).
8.2 Determination of width
The width of the film shall be determined in accordance with ISO 4592.
8.3 Determination of tensile characteristics
The tensile characteristics shall be determined according to EN ISO 527-1 and EN ISO 527-3 using five
test pieces type 2, with a width of 10 mm, cut in each direction of the film, longitudinal direction (MD)
and transversal direction (TD), at a testing speed of 500 mm/min.
Calculate the arithmetic average value of the five measurements.
The arithmetic average value shall fulfil the requirements of Tables 3 to 5, as applicable.
8.4 Determination of impact resistance
8.4.1 General
NOTE Films which are wider than 2 000 mm are usually folded lengthwise at least once before winding on a
reel. These folds are retained even when the film is laid out flat, and this may affect test results.
In case of a folded film, a distinction shall be made between the test pieces taken from the folds (fold
area) and sample sheets taken from areas which have not been folded (flat area).
8.4.2 Flat area
The impact resistance (Dart drop test) in flat area shall be determined in accordance with
EN ISO 7765-1:2004, method A.
Calculate the impact failure mass m , in grams, in accordance with EN ISO 7765-1.
f
The impact failure mass m shall fulfil the requirements of Tables 3 to 5, as applicable.
f
8.4.3 Fold area
The impact resistance (Dart drop test) in fold area shall be determined using the apparatus specified in
EN ISO 7765-1:2004, method A.
Spread out the film with the marked face onto the apparatus and test every folds tangentially twice,
alternately internal and external folds, with a mass as specified in Tables 3, 4, 5, as applicable. The
tangential test is obtained by shifting forward the fold of 13 mm from the vertical axle of the specimen
clamp. See Figure 1.
If no failure occurs, the result is declared “pass”.
If one failure occurs, carry out two additional tests on the fold which failed in the same position
(internal or external fold). Then, if no failure occurs, the result is declared “pass” and if one or two
failure(s) occur(s), the result is declared “fail”.
If two failures occur, the result is declared “fail”.
Key
1 external fold
2 internal fold
3 film
4 vertical axle of the specimen clamps
where:
d = 13 mm
Figure 1 — Position of impact on folds
8.5 Determination of elongation under a steady load (creep test)
8.5.1 Principle
This test method is intended to measure the creep, expressed as the elongation of the film under a
steady load in a vertical static position after a specified time period.
8.5.2 Apparatus
A typical arrangement for testing is shown in Figure 2. The test piece is hold by two grips, the upper
grip is clamped to a fixed support and a weight is hung to the lower grip to provide a steady load on the
test piece.
Key
1 fixed support
2 grips
3 test piece
4 mass
Figure 2 — Typical apparatus
8.5.3 Test pieces
Cut three test pieces from the film in the longitudinal direction (MD), with the following dimensions:
— width: 10 mm;
— overall length: 140 mm;
Gauge marks are defined on each test piece. The distance between the marks (L ) shall be 100 mm.
8.5.4 Test conditions
a) Test temperature: 23 °C ± 2 °C.
b) Stress to be applied: 4 MPa.
c) Test period: 100 h.
8.5.5 Test procedure
For each test piece, measure the thickness and the minimum width and calculate the value of the steady
load referring to the measured values.
Make two marks which defined the gauge length (L ) on the test piece.
Set the test piece in the grips.
Adjust the mass of the test stress to the calculated value, e.g. by adding or removing lead shot.
Carefully hang the test piece with the grips and the test load to the fixed support, avoiding jerks and
shocks.
During testing, the apparatus shall not be subjected to vibration or shocks which may influence the final
measurement.
After 100 h, measure and record the distance between the two marks that define the gauge length (L).
Repeat the test procedure for each test piece.
8.5.6 Expression of results
Calculate the creep A, as a percentage, using the following formula:
L−L
A= ×100
L
where
L is the measured initial gauge length, in mm;
L is the arithmetic average value, in mm, of the three measurements of the distance between the
two marks that define the gauge length at the end of testing.
8.6 Determination of visible light transmission
The total visible light transmission is determined in accordance with ASTM D 1003-13 on five test
pieces cut from the film.
Calculate the arithmetic average value of the five measurements.
The arithmetic average value shall fulfil the requirements of Table 3, 4 and 5, as applicable.
8.7 Determination of haze
The haze shall be determined in accordance with ASTM D 1003-13 on five test pieces taken from the
film.
Calculate the arithmetic average value of the five measurements.
The arithmetic average value shall fulfil the requirements of Table 4 and 5 as applicable.
8.8 Determination of IR effectiveness (η ) (thermal clear and thermal diffusing films)
ir
8.8.1 Principle
The method consists of measuring the IR transmission spectrum within wave numbers ranging from
−1 −1
1 430 cm to 770 cm (between 7 μm and 13 μm wavelengths).
This range of wavelengths corresponds to the field of maximum emission of the energy irradiated by
the earth's surface.
8.8.2 Apparatus
8.8.2.1 Infrared spectrophotometer allowing to measure and record continuously transmittance
−1 −1
between 1 500 cm and 700 cm ;
8.8.2.2 Analytical balance with an accuracy of 0,1 mg or planimeter.
NOTE The determination of IR effectiveness may also be made by using IR spectrophotometers equipped
with software to integrate transmittance.
8.8.3 Test procedure
The measurement is performed on five test pieces cut from the film.
Put each test piece on the specimen holder of the spectrophotometer and record the spectrum of
−1 −1
transmission from 1 500 cm to 700 cm .
Measure the area between the line corresponding to a transmittance of 100 % and the curve of the
spectrum with the help of a planimeter or by using the following weighing method.
−1 −1
Cut a sheet with the trace of the spectrum (or a copy of it) at 1 430 cm and 770 cm , along the lines of
0 % and 100 % transmittance. Weigh this rectangle to an accuracy of 0,1 mg. This mass shall be stated
as P .
Then cut along the outline of the spectrum and weigh the part representing the transmission.
This second mass shall be stated as P .
t
8.8.4 Expression of results
According to the “planimeter method” the percentage of the measured area of the spectrum in respect
to the total area is the value of the IR effectiveness (η ).
ir
According to the weighing method, the IR effectiveness (η ) in the range of wavelengths between 7 μm
ir
to 13 μm is given by the ratio:
P −P
100 t
η = ×100
ir
P
Calculate the arithmetic average value of the five measurements.
The arithmetic average value shall fulfil the requirements of Table 4 and 5, as applicable.
8.9 Determination of resistance to weathering
8.9.1 Principle
The variation of the tensile strain at break of specimens is determined before and after an exposure to
xenon-arc lamps.
8.9.2 Exposure to xenon-arc lamps
Carry out the artificial weathering according to EN ISO 4892-2:2013, Method A, using one of the test
conditions given in Table 6.
Table 6 — Exposure cycle and test conditions
Irradiance
Black-
Chamber Relative
standard
Broadband Narrowband
Exposure period Temperature humidity
Temperature
(300 nm to 400 nm) (340 nm)
°C %
°C
2 2
W/m W/(m ⋅nm)
102 min dry 40 ± 2 0,35 ± 0,02 65 ± 3 38 ± 3 50 ± 5
18 min water spray 40 ± 2 0,35 ± 0,02 — — —
102 min dry 60 ± 2 0,51 ± 0,02 65 ± 3 38 ± 3 50 ± 5
18 min water spray 60 ± 2 0,51 ± 0,02 — — —
8.9.3 Procedure
!Expose the specimens using a backing made of matt aluminium plate according to 8.9.2 during the
minimum duration of exposure specified in Table 2, corresponding to the class of durability of the
film."
After the exposure, determine the tensile strain at break according to EN ISO 527-1 and EN ISO 527-3,
using five type 2 test pieces, 10 mm wide, 150 mm long, taken longitudinally in the film (MD), at a test
speed of 500 mm/min.
8.9.4 Calculation and expression of results
Calculate the arithmetic mean value of the five measurements performed on the test pieces cut from the
exposed specimens and the arithmetic mean value of the five measurements performed on the test
pieces cut from the unexposed specimens in longitudinal direction (MD) (see 8.3). Compare these two
values.
The test is considered successful when the value calculated for specimens exposed to artificial
weathering is equal or greater than 50 % of the value calculated for unexposed specimens.
8.10 Determination of the chlorine content of used films
The chlorine content of used films shall be determined in accordance with Annex C.
Alternative methods may be used if there is an agreement between the manufacturer and the customer.
For example, the chlorine content may be determined by X-ray fluorescence method according to
Annex E.
In case of dispute, the method as specified in Annex C shall be used.
8.11 Determination of the sulfur content of used films
The sulfur content of used films shall be determined in accordance with Annex D.
Alternative methods may be used if there is an agreement between the manufacturer and the customer.
For example, the sulfur content may be determined by ultraviolet fluorescence method or by
coulometry according to Annex F, or by X-ray fluorescence method according to Annex E.
In case of dispute, the method as specified in Annex D shall be used.
8.12 Determination of the roll/sheet length
The roll or sheet length shall be greater or equal to the nominal length of the roll or the sheet.
These control procedures are recommended in cases where there is uncertainty regarding the length of
a roll or for survey testing. They are not recommended for goods acceptance inspections.
The inspection shall be carried out on a film roll that is complete and in its original packaging.
If the nominal length of the roll is 50 m or less, unwrap the roll and completely unroll it on a flat surface,
then measure its length using a decametre.
If the nominal length of the roll is over 50 m, follow the procedure below to check the length:
a) unwrap the roll;
b) determine the mass of the complete roll, P , in kilograms, to the nearest 0,1 kg;
B
c) at the beginning, middle and end of the roll, take three width samples, each measuring
100 cm ± 0,2 cm when flat;
d) where appropriate, determine the mass of the core, P , in grams. If there is no core: P = 0 g;
M M
e) measure the total mass of the three samples, P, in grams.
f) calculate the value of the length of the roll, L, using the following formula:
3(1000⋅P −P )
B M
L=
P
where:
L is the roll length, in metres;
P is the mass of the complete roll, in kilograms;
B
P is the core mass, in grams;
M
P is the total sample mass, in grams.
9 Film acceptance, storage and handling
9.1 Acceptance
Carefully examine the rolls or sheets upon delivery in order to find any apparent damage or anomalies.
If a defect is found, take the necessary actions for the case. Whenever possible, it is recommended to
take a photograph of the damage.
The rolls and sheets shall be carried, not dragged over the ground or any other surface.
9.2 Storage and handling of rolls
Keep the rolls in their original packaging and store them protected from direct exposure to sunlight and
temperature source and rain.
For greenhouse covering films, the duration of storage by the end-user shall be contractually limited to
less than three months.
It is recommended that rolls delivered with a cardboard core be stored in a dry location.
Handling should be performed horizontally.
10 Designation
The designation of the film shall include the following information:
a) use of the film: COVERING FILM with the type according to Table 1;
b) reference to this European Standard: EN 13206;
c) nominal width of the film, in millimetres (mm) ;
d) nominal thickness of the film, in micrometres (µm) if required;
e) class of durability according to Table 2.
f) manufacturer's trade mark;
g) manufacturer's information (the production period, year and month, in figures).
All these information have to be put on the accompanying label.
EXAMPLE COVERING FILM NTh EN 13206 5000 150 A AnyCo 2016–06
Designation for a non-thermal film of PE-LD, 5 000 mm wide and 150 μm thickness and a duration of
exposure to an artificial weathering conforming to 8.9 of 2100 h [at irradiance 0,35 W/(m ⋅nm)]
Where the labels accompanying the films/sheets indicate instructions for installation and use, these
instructions are mandatory.
IMPORTANT — In order to ensure traceability, the end-user shall keep the labels accompanying the
films/sheets or their packaging up to end-of-use. Keeping only the pallet label for homogeneous pallet
deliveries is acceptable.
11 Marking
Marking printed along the edges of the film shall include the following information:
a) type of film according to Table 1: NTh; ThC; ThD;
b) reference to this European Standard, i.e. EN 13206;
c) class of durability and irradiance according to Table 2;
d) manufacturer's information (the production period, year and month, in figures);
e) manufacturer's trade mark.
EXAMPLE: NTh EN 13206 A AnyCo 2016-06
12 Instructions for installation, use of covering films
The instructions of the film manufacturer for the conditions of installation and use, including durability
aspects and maximum thresholds for residual sulfur and chlorine contents, shall be followed. In the
absence of such instructions, guidance is given in G.1 for greenhouse covering films and in G.2 for low
tunnel covering films.
13 Instructions for disposal and end-of-life of covering films
For the removal instructions, the recommendations given by local authorities in charge of waste
management of post-used agricultural films shall be followed.
The minimum technical requirements issued by the companies/organizations that collect films are
available on their websites.
In the absence of such recommendations, see G.3, as guidance.
Thermoplastic films are recyclable materials that can be re-processed in a material recovery process
intended to save resources while minimizing harmful emissions into the air, water and soil, as well as
their impacts on human health.
!EN 15347 [2] provides a framework for characterizing plastic waste. EN 15343 [3] provides the
procedures necessary for ensuring the traceability of recycled plastics. EN 15344 [4] provides data for
characterizing polyethylene recyclates.
ISO 15270 [5] provides guidelines for terminology and material recovery, in particular through
mechanical recycling."
Annex A
(informative)
Exposure to other light sources
A.1 Medium pressure mercury vapour lamps
A.1.1 Durability classification
In the case of an exposure to medium pressure mercury vapour lamps, the class of durability of
covering films is given in Table A.1, depending on the duration of exposure of the film according
to A.1.2, which induces a decrease of the values of tensile strain at break equal or less than 50 % of the
initial values.
The class of durability shall be declared by the manufacturer.
Table A.1 — Durability classification
Class Minimum duration of
exposure
h
N 100
A 450
B 750
C 1200
D 1 500
E 1 900
F 2 400
A.1.2 Exposure to medium pressure mercury vapour lamps
A.1.2.1 Exposure method
Carry out the exposure according to EN 16472 using the test conditions given in A.1.2.2 and A.1.2.3.
The exposure may be carried out in the presence of moisture in the form of water spray, condensation
or by immersion cycles with or without light. In this case, test parameters shall be agreed between
parties and recorded in the test report.
!NOTE Information on the influence of water and additive migration can be found in ISO 10640 [6]."
A.1.2.2 Irradiance
The irradiance at the surface of the test specimens shall be (95 ± 15) W/m in the spectral passband
290 nm à 420 nm.
A.1.2.3 Temperature
!The apparatus can be designed according to different technologies (type of temperature sensor,
layout of the test chamber, ventilation mode, etc.). The set points of the temperature of the different
parts of the temperature controller (with an accuracy of ± 0,5 °C) shall ensure an accurate and
reproducible control of the actual temperature of the exposed specimens.
The set points of the temperature for different apparatus available on the market at the date of the
publication of this standard shall be set as follows:
a) for apparatus including a platinum sensor in contact with a specimen attached to the specimen
holder, the set point of the temperature shall be (60 ± 0,5) °C.
b) for apparatus the specimen compartment of which is separated from the compartment of the light
source, and the sensor of which is a black-standard thermometer (BST) according to
EN ISO 4892-1, the set point shall be (65 ± 0,5) °C and the temperature of the specimen
compartment shall be (55 ± 0,5) °C.
c) for apparatus equipped with a platinum temperature sensor inserted in a white thermally-
controlled component, the set point of the temperature shall be (58 ± 0,5) °C.
As a given temperature set point can lead to different results since the actual temperature of the
exposed specimens is depending on the design of the apparatus, it is necessary to calibrate them. See
A.1.2.4.
NOTE The actual temperature of exposed specimens is critical since the thermal activation energy of
photochemical processes leads to exponential variation of the degradation rate according to a type-Arrhenius
law."
A.1.2.4 Apparatus calibration
!The calibration of the apparatus shall be carried out relatively to the photochemistry by means of an
actinometer made from a polyethylene reference specimens (PERS), as defined in ISO/TR 19032:2006
[7]."
The calibration by means of a PERS allows controlling accurately the photochemical attack from both
irradiance and temperature.
PERS shall be exposed during 72 h using test conditions specified in A.1.2.2 and A.1.2.3. The oxidation
level shall be measured by using an infrared spectrometer in the transmission mode. The absorbance
ratio (carbonyl index); A , shall satisfy the following condition:
r
A
1,8≤ A = ≤2,4
r
A
where
Ar is the absorbance ratio (carbonyl index);
−1
A is the maximum absorbance at near 1 715 cm ;
−1
A is the maximum absorbance at near 2 020 cm .
!If the calculated absorbance ratio is out of the range as
...