eChapters

Objective

Vegetable seed separation requires specialized training. A little carelessness during the seed extraction process can seriously harm the plant’s viability and vigor in addition to its outward look. Inadequate extraction methods can also result in in-situ germination. The seed can be separated by the following methods.

1. Manual Method

(a) Maceration e.g., watermelon,

(b) Crushing e.g., brinjal,

(c) Scraping e.g., cucumber

(d) Separated e.g., muskmelon,

(e) Scooping e.g., pumpkins and

(f) Extraction e.g., squashes.

Concept: Seed blending is the process of merging two or more types of the same species, for as Kentucky bluegrass cultivars Merion, Baron, and Park. Contrarily, seed mixing refers to the blending of two or more species, however every species may have more than one variation represented, such as Jamestown and Cascade chewing fescue combined with Merion and Fylking Kentucky bluegrass. Seed is typically distributed in blends, primarily Kentucky bluegrass blends, for sod growing purposes. For home lawns, parks, and other utility areas where upkeep levels would not be adequate to maintain pure Kentucky bluegrass turf, mixes of different grasses are typically employed. Naturally, when it comes to pure seed quality, no blend of grass seeds is superior to the individual ingredients. Every time a new blend needs to be made; extreme caution must be taken to ensure that the mixing equipment can be completely cleaned to prevent any contamination from unwanted species—bent grasses are perhaps the most challenging to deal with.

Pre-Treatment Before Sowing

The natural conditions necessary for seeds to germinate are increased by pre sowing seed treatment. Many plants and trees’ seeds require a specific amount of time to mature in their immature portions and to overcome dormancy, which is the absence of certain elements that impede germination, so that the seeds can sprout. Depending on the type of seed, different environmental factors promote different levels of germination. For example, some seeds need to be kept in a very damp, cold environment, while others need to be kept in a dry, hot environment. Different techniques are employed to support seed survival and speed up germination, depending on the size of the lot, the species, the local conditions, and the availability of pertinent tools and facilities. Many species’ seeds don’t germinate successfully unless they are exposed to specific circumstances. Dormancy is the state in which seeds do not germinate unless certain circumstances are met. Conditions in the natural world could include being near fire or being eaten by animals.

Concept: A few of the numerous environmental elements that affect seed quality maintenance are moisture, temperature, humidity, and storage conditions. When some seedborne diseases or pests like insects are taken into consideration, seed quality can still be negatively impacted. Applying one or more pesticides to seed is the most economical and efficient way to keep pests away and improve seed quality.

Because pesticides are harmful, handling treated seeds after application requires additional caution and safety measures.

Definition of Treated Seed

The definition of “treated” is “application of a pesticide or subject seed to a process intended to reduce, control, or repel insects, disease organisms, or other pests which attack the seed or seedlings.”

Stored grain pests are one of the major constraints in obtaining quality seeds. They cause substantial yield loss in storage conditions affecting both the quality and quantity of the produce. Apart from causing direct loss to the grains, they also make them unfit for consumption through their excreta, scales and wings resulting in development of unpleasant odour (Upadhyay and Ahmad, 2011). They also act as a source of medium for growth of fungi or bacteria (Daglish et al., 2018). The method of infestation of stored gain pests is different from the insect pests infesting crops under field condition. Generally, the infestation of storage pests starts after harvesting. It has been reported that in India, there is a loss of about 14 million tons worth Rs. 7000 crores due to the infestation by different storage pests (Chaubey, 2022). The post-harvest loss in terms of quantity and quality by different storage insect-pests accounts for about 10-30 per cent (Rajasri and Kavitha, 2015; Yaseen et al., 2019).

Sanitation

Sanitation and maintaining good hygiene conditions are the important aspect of seed storage in storage godowns. Maintenance of good hygiene conditions will maintain the quality of produce in the long run (Mahapatra et al., 2014) and these practices should not be overlooked. The threshing floors should be cleaned properly before the operation so that there is no mixing of seeds or any insect-pests or pathogens. Harvesting and threshing should be followed by cleanliness of godowns to protect the seeds from the harmful pest and pathogens (Upadhyay and Ahmad, 2011). The storage godowns should be well lighted and the area should be preferably sunny, free from weeds and mostly situated at elevated areas. Damp areas should not be selected for building storage godowns as it will affect the moisture per cent of seeds thereby enabling easy growth of insect-pests and diseases (Parimala et al., 2013). Before bringing the new produce to the storage godowns, they should be cleaned properly. The cracks and crevices of storage godowns if any should be sealed ahead and the walls of the godowns should be whitewashed (Hazam and Kumar, 2022). The new seed lots should not be mixed with the older lots. The floors should be disinfected, and it should be cleaned regularly.

Introduction

The recognition of environment as the desired precondition for human existence and development both by Millennium Development Goals (MDG) as well as Sustainable Developmental Goals (SDG) unquestionably shows its importance and necessity. The impact of climate change is fast getting into our understanding and are realizing the enormity of the situation. Consequently, global environmental issues are a growing concern among the people and communities of various regions today. The impending ecological disasters have forced the right-thinking people and organizations to seek an alternative in the form of managing natural resources without jeopardizing the developmental activities. The challenge is to enhance the standard of living compatible with ecology and environment. This underlines rather unquestionably the need to pursue a line of lifestyle and development design that is compatible with nature and the issue of the environment cannot left to languish at the bottom of priorities.

Introduction

Western world started paying attention to climate change after the Industrial Revolution when collateral environmental problems began appearing with the development. But in India, many shastras gave philosophy of sustainable development before the evolution of many civilizations.

It means that “All this is for habitation by the Lord, whatsoever is individual universe of movement in the universal motion. Man should use all resources by renunciation, he should not see them with feeling of lust”. Here, renunciation means controlled use of resources. It is known as Green Application of the resources nowadays.

Whenever the term ‘green’ is used as an adjective with certain phrases, the said phrase is considered to depict a friendly character with the environment. In this sense, the Cambridge Dictionary defines the word ‘green’ as “relating to or believing in the protection of the natural environment.” For instance, Green Technology, one of those concepts towards which this paper is concerned, will refer to those technologies which are environment friendly. But this won’t help us understand what green technology actually means.

Introduction

In today’s world, where environmental issues are prominent and there’s a growing realization of our planet’s limited resources, the concepts of sustainable harvesting and conservation have become extremely important. They act as guiding principles, directing us to use resources responsibly and to protect the diverse life and ecosystems on Earth. The paper is designed to explore the core principles of sustainable harvesting and conservation, emphasizing their critical importance and the pressing need for a careful equilibrium between utilizing resources and safeguarding the environment. The paper analyzes laws, policies, and delving into Sikkim’s sustainable conservation and harvesting methods, and argues that successful implementation of these strategies presents Sikkim as a model that can be replicated worldwide. Sikkim’s proactive initiatives, such as banning plastic and harmful substances, as well as implementing measures to reduce pollution, showcase a forward thinking approach to environmental stewardship(Sikkim, ND),. These actions set an example for other areas to emulate, promoting a more sustainable and responsible relationship with our natural surroundings.

Introduction

One of the main challenges in sustainable farming is determining the patentability of living organisms, including genetically modified crops and biotech innovations. Balancing the rights of inventors and the public’s access to agricultural resources can be so complex the Seed saving and farmer’s rights Seed saving is a traditional practice where farmers save and reuse seeds from their harvest. However, some intellectual property rights (IPR) regimes restrict farmers’ ability to save and exchange seeds, potentially limiting their autonomy and leading to dependence on commercial seed suppliers. Biopiracy and traditional knowledge Protecting traditional knowledge and preventing biopiracy is a significant concern in sustainable farming. Nearby agriculturists and inborn individuals habitually have imperative conventional information approximately plant sorts and rural procedures that’s esteemed, and they are decently compensated for their endeavors. Maintainable advancement became a major worldwide agenda thing within the afterward decades of the 20th century! According to the Brundtland report from 1987: “Our Common Future,” provided the most recognized concept of sustainable development, meeting future demands without sacrificing existing practices to be adopted for future aspects. (Ahmed Abdel-Latif, 2021). While a few Intellectual property rights have been pointed out such as the plant breeder’s rights trademark, security of plant assortments and ranchers’ rights (PPV and FR), topographical signs, and exchange insider facts are exceptionally significant to horticulture. In expansion, format plans for chips particularly planned for farming; logical papers, and tv programs covering thoughts related to horticulture and partnered segments must be considered. (Datta, 2016).

Introduction

Resource management balances human needs with environmental preservation, focusing on sustainable development, responsible use, and conservation of natural resources. It involves environmental stewardship, economic efficiency, and social equity, ensuring equitable access for all societal segments while meeting present and future demands (Study Smarter, N.D; Mohd Akhter Ali et al., 2023).

There are specific areas such as water, soil, forests, waste, and sustainable harvesting practices. Each area presents unique challenges and opportunities, requiring tailored strategies and interventions to promote sustainability. The interplay between human activities, environmental impacts, and socio economic dynamics through the lens of resource management highlights the need for sustainable practices that balance development with ecological preservation, ensuring equitable resource distribution and long-term economic stability. Emphasis is placed on holistic approaches, participatory decision making, and capacity building to enhance resource governance and promote sustainable practices.

Introduction

People visit tourist destinations for the purpose of enjoying the beauty, to relax and rejuvenate. One of the popular destinations chosen by all are hill stations. Darjeeling, also known as the Queen of Hills, is a popular tourist destination visited by six-hundred-thousand Indians and thirty-thousand foreigners annually (Bhattacharya, n.d.). The primary attractions that make Darjeeling worth visiting are the magnificent views of the Kanchenjunga range and the lush tea gardens. As a result of the advancement in technology, the luxury of travel is now feasible to all sections of society because of which tourism in India has rapidly expanded in the past three decades. This is the result of: great progress and advancement of the Indian economy, India’s roaring IT sector and promotion of “Unbelievable India” by the Tourism Ministry. Although tourism has significantly boosted revenue and employment, it comes with its downsides: the harm that it poses to the environment if it goes unchecked. Since the number of tourists is greater than the ability of the environment to cope up with, it puts tremendous pressure upon the environment which can have irreversible negative impacts

Introduction

For upliftment of the Indian economy agriculture plays an important role as it has contributed immensely. Nearly, three quarters of India’s family depend on rural incomes. Majority of India’s poor live in rural areas. Most people depend upon the crops, vegetables, fruits grown by these rural population. India’s food security is depended upon the inputs made by the farmers which has been a reason for increasing food insecurity in India. To meet with this accelerated pace a productive, competitive, diversified and sustainable agriculture sector needs to be introduced (The World Bank, 2012).

India being a global agricultural powerhouse, is the world’s largest producer of millet, pulses and spices and also has the largest cattle herd in the world, India also produces largest amount of wheat, rice and cotton. Agriculture is a part of India’s culture and tradition. In India, the culture, tradition and festivals are in a way related to different crops grown by the farmers. Along with this agriculture is deeply rooted with the community lifestyle in India. The community freely share their knowledge related to growing, sowing and harvesting of crops, they also distribute or share the produced crops among each other freely (OECD, 2018).

Introduction

In an era increasingly defined by environmental consciousness and the imperative for sustainable practices, the sports industry emerges as a pivotal arena where innovation in green intellectual property (IP) holds transformative potential. At the forefront of this movement are patents, which not only safeguard inventive ideas but also serve as catalysts for integrating eco-friendly technologies into sports equipment. This chapter explores the profound impact of green patents within the sports sector across four key dimensions, illuminating their role in driving sustainability initiatives and reshaping industry dynamics.

The integration of sustainable technologies in sports equipment represents a paradigm shift towards greener practices. From advanced materials in athletic apparel that reduce environmental impact to the design of energy-efficient stadiums, innovations in sports equipment are diversifying to align with global sustainability goals. Cutting-edge developments include biodegradable materials, solar-powered facilities, and water-saving technologies, each contributing to minimizing ecological footprints across the sports industry. By examining these advancements, we uncover how green patents not only spur technological advancement but also foster a culture of environmental stewardship among sports manufacturers and stakeholders.

Introduction

Among the various countries worldwide, such as China, Kenya, and Sri Lanka, India stands as a significant player. In 2016, China and India collectively accounted for over 60% of the world’s total tea production. Furthermore, India holds the distinction of being the foremost producer of black tea, while China and Japan lead in green tea production. In India, Assam and Darjeeling are recognized as the primary states for tea production, while the Nilgiris and North-East regions also contribute significantly, playing a crucial role in boosting the country’s economic growth.

Assam annually produces over 400 million kilograms of tea, making it the largest tea-growing region globally.Assam has the world’s biggest tea plantations, which are important for India’s economy. The state is near the Brahmaputra River and shares borders with Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. Because of its geographical location, this region encounters significant rainfall, especially during the monsoon season, with daily precipitation reaching as high as 250 to 300 mm (10 to 12 inches).A daytime temperature reaches to around 36 °C (96.8 °F), fostering greenhouse-like conditions of intense humidity and heat. The unique malty flavor for which Assam tea is renowned is shaped by the pivotal role played by its tropical climate.

Introduction

Intellectual Property emerged in new type of property referring to creation of the mind in today’s globalized world. While IP such as copyrights, patents, and trademarks are centuries old, but the extension of IPRs to living beings and knowledge related to them is relatively recent. Similarly Intellectual Property Rights (hereafter IPRs) mean legal protection to protect data from new inventions. In exchange for being required to reveal the formula or strategy underlying the technique, these rights enable the owner to stop imitators from commercializing the inventions or processes for a limited time. Biological Diversity refers to all kinds of living organisms found in an area which maintain balance and support life hence may be called as the cornerstone of sustainability of all living creations i.e. the hallmark of the life of living beings since origin. In general, all organisms, including flora and living things, microbes, and their ecosystems, are together referred to as biodiversity.

Introduction

The term “green intellectual property” (IP) is used to describe the legal protections afforded to environmentally friendly innovations. It’s a strategy for saving the planet by stimulating development of environmentally friendly products and methods. For a very long time, plastic consumption has been a huge environmental problem. A report on single-use plastics has been released by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), outlining steps towards environmental sustainability. This research analyses the efforts made at the national, state, and local levels to reduce the usage of disposable plastics. Policymakers considering restricting the manufacturing and use of single-use plastics may find the insights it presents helpful. In 2015, the United Nations General Assembly established the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. By 2030, the world’s population should be free of poverty, the planet would be in good shape, and people would live in peace and prosperity. Several of these targets address plastic use; for example, 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, 13: Climate Action, 14: Life Below Water, and 15: Life on Land.

Introduction

Green Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) is a relatively new and evolving concept that emerged in response to the growing global environmental challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion. It is an intersection between traditional intellectual property rights and environmental concerns, aiming to promote and protect innovation and technologies that have a positive impact on the environment and contribute to sustainable development.

The concept of Green IPR gained momentum as the world recognized the need for sustainable practices and solutions to address the adverse effects of industrialization and economic growth on the environment. Intellectual property rights, such as patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets, have long been used to incentivize and protect innovations in various fields. However, the conventional application of IPR did not explicitly consider environmental considerations.

With the rise of environmental consciousness and the acknowledgement of the limited nature of natural resources, there was a call for integrating environmental sustainability into the intellectual property framework. The idea behind Green IPR is to encourage the development and dissemination of eco-friendly technologies, products, and processes while safeguarding the rights of innovators and creators.

Introduction

As a new decade begins, the effects of climate change are being felt all around the world. Storms, floods, droughts, and wildfires are examples of events that may already be linked to climate change and that are expected to occur more frequently and intensely as well as the destruction they inflict virtually every day. The state of the world’s climate is a serious issue that requires attention. In order to create a future that is more environmentally friendly, addressing this issue is urgently required, and everyone must take this into consideration as their shared goal. Since technology is increasingly being seen as a part of the outcome.

To this end, the strengthening of national innovation systems and ensuring that people have access to effective IPPI management programmes need to be stepped up with a view to improving research and development in technologies, products and services which are needed for transformation into a more environmentally sustainable future. This crisis can’t be solved, unless there is a breakthrough technology that will make the goals achievable. This is why innovation in the field of “green” technologies will be needed and intellectual property rights will play an important role. Intellectual property rights may ensure that technological progress can be sold to allow for the continuation of research and development investment but they could also cause problems and constraints. The impact and opportunities that “Green IP” can have are therefore considerable. Regardless of their distinctions, “Green IP” will have an impact on companies from different industries, sectors, and locations. The consumer goods sector needs to improve how they go about changing the specifications for designing products that can be easily recycled and repaired.

Objective

After performing this experiment, you will be able to learn

Sampling methods and procedures of packaging material.

Introduction

The objective of sampling of a packaging material is to obtain a representative sample of a whole lot for the required testing and/or grading. It is expected that the test results and grading will reflect the average quality of the PM from which the sample was taken.

Principle

The sample techniques and processes outlined in this publication are grounded upon scientific principles. Since the validity of any later test result depends on the quality of the sampling and the information given with the sample, the sampler is essential to the process of selecting lots for testing and/or grading.

Every PM in the population being sampled has an equal chance of being selected, according to the random sampling principle. Usually, the sample size that is tested is very small in relation to the size of the lot that it represents. The sample must be taken carefully and in a way that gives assurance that it is genuinely representative of the lot. Similarly, in order to reduce the composite sample, all necessary.

Objective

After performing this experiment, you will be able to learn:

Water vapour transmission rate of packaging material

Introduction

Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR), also known as Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR), measures the rate at which water vapor passes through a material. MVTR is crucial in various industries where moisture control is vital. For example, moisture-sensitive foods and pharmaceuticals are packaged using materials with controlled MVTR to ensure quality, safety, and shelf life. In the textile industry, MVTR serves as a measure of breathability, enhancing comfort for outdoor clothing. In the building materials industry, managing moisture barrier properties in architectural components helps maintain appropriate moisture levels in the internal spaces of buildings. Various techniques are used to measure MVTR, ranging from gravimetric methods that assess moisture gain or loss by mass to advanced instrumental techniques capable of measuring extremely low transmission rates. It's important to note that special care must be taken when measuring porous substances like fabrics, as some techniques may not be suitable.

Objective

After performing this experiment, you will be able to learn

Sorting of samples by sink-floatation technique.

Introduction

Sink float is the simplest and cheapest method among all the wet sorting techniques in which polymers are separated based on their density. This technique is extremely fast, environment friendly and cost effective process for sorting of plastics. Since, the separations are done based on density, so any factor which may change the density of the pure polymer like blending, composite formation of multilayer structures etc. will not be separated well using this method. Moreover, if any two polymers are very close in density, they cannot be separated easily. That is why PVC and PET which are very close in their density can not be separated using sink floatation method.

Initially the plastic waste is added to the container containing water and the system is gently stirred to evenly wet the surface of plastic and remove any air trapped on the surface. Since the density of polyolefins is near/close to each other but lighter than water, they all float in water whereas the heavier plastics sink. This technique is primarily used to separate polyolefins from other plastics. Now to further segregate the polyolefinic fraction, this method is extended by adding the polyolefin mixture to another container containing water and alcohol. As dropwise more and more alcohol are added to the water, the density of the medium will decrease and the polyolefins start separating. For separating the heavier fraction of the polymer, the mixture of polymers is added to water. To this water, dropwise salt water is added and stirred. Salt water increases the density of the medium slowly and at one point, the polymers which were sinking in water, will start floating depending on their density.

Objective
After performing this experiment, you will be able to learn
Sorting of given samples by selective dissolution technique.
Introduction
Sorting process is the process of separating the mingled and mixed plastic before the recycling process. 

Selective Dissolution Technique (SDP)

Recycling of plastic has become the major focus nowadays. Sorting of plastic materials is the major step towards recycling. One of the sorting techniques is selective dissolution although it has not found major usage in industry for various drawbacks. This technique uses the solubility parameter of different polymers for segregation purpose. Each polymer owing to its chemical structure has different solubility parameters. Hence, the solvents for each and every polymer are different. This difference in solubility in different solvents is used here for separating them from one another.

Recycling of plastic has become the major focus nowadays. Sorting of plastic materials is the major step towards recycling. One of the sorting techniques is selective dissolution although it has not found major usage in industry for various drawbacks. This technique uses the solubility parameter of different polymers for segregation purpose. Each polymer owing to its chemical structure has different solubility parameters. Hence, the solvents for each and every polymer are different. This difference in solubility in different solvents is used here for separating them from one another.

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to:
To determine the peel strength of a given samples.
Introduction

Packaging is a key element to quality branding for an organisation, ensuring that the product labels are securely attached to products. Adhesion bond strength of a film to a surface can be quantified in terms of peel strength, bonding strength, and shear strength. Many protective covers are used as required for various applications. In most of such applications plastics films are used as the first preference of the manufacturers. In applications like, protective LCD screens and other scratch-prone surfaces very low peel force films are used. The force required to remove the protective films or the label is very important for both the consumer and the manufacturer. For example, for protective film application, the film must be easy to remove, yet the bond must be strong enough to remain intact for product security. Whereas, in a typical adhesive application, like laminated cups, the bond between the surfaces should be strong enough to withstand various environmental impact.

Objective

After performing this experiment you will be able to learn:

The stress-strain curve of the polymeric sample (polystyrene) and calculate the tensile strength, % elongation before break, young’s modulus.

Principle

Tensile Test (ASTM D638)

Tensile strength is a measurement of ability of plastic material to withstand forces that tend to pull it apart. It is the amount of stress at the break point.

This test also helps to determine the extent the material stretches before breaking known as elongation at break. Percentage elongation is defined as the amount of linear deformation of the sample before breakage. It is measured as strain value at the break point.

Yield Point: It is the point at which an increase in strain occurs on stress-strain curve without the increase in stress. (point C)

Yield Strength: The stress at which a specified limiting deviation from the proportionality of stress-strain curve is observed for a material is known as Yeild strength.

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to learn:
To determine the tensile properties of polymeric sample.
Principle

ASTM D638 covers the tensile properties of both reinforced and unreinforced plastics in the form of dumbbell-shaped molded plastic test specimens.

Yield strength is measured as the highest stress where a film, when deformed, will resume its original dimensions when the force is removed. The yield stress is expressed as force per unit area (engineering stress) and is calculated as per Equation (1) and the elongation at yield as per equation (2).

Objective

After performing this experiment you will be able to learn:

To determine the tear resistance of polymeric film.

Introduction

Tear resistance testing is often used in the plastic film, paper and textile industries. Tear resistance is measured as a sample's ability to resist tearing. Tear strength is the maximum london the sample divided by the thickness of the material. Typically used for testing of plastic film, plastic sheets and other rubber products. Tear strength is calculated by force (in Newtons) divided by thickness (in millimeters, centimeters, inches, etc.): Tear strength = F/t

A tear is generally uneven and usually unplanned. In cases like a packaged chips, already tear cuts are made following a perforated line so that the effort of tearing is less and the action will most likely produce a straight line.

The speed at which a tear resistance test is conducted can affect the test significantly. Tear transmission resistance is common for acceptance testing with materials such as paper and rubber. Tear resistance in textiles involves the load required to spread a single "rip-tongue" type of tear or the type of tear where the material is initially cut.

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to learn:
The impact properties of polymeric film.

Introduction

Dart impact test is performed on plastic films and laminates to determine the effect of free falling dart on plastic films. The energy created by the falling dart causes the film to fail under some specified conditions. The test is widely performed by the manufacturers in plastic industries and paper & packaging industries to assess the durability and strength of the plastic films and other related products.

Dart impact strength is dependent on film thickness as the test is sensitive to orientation of the chains in the film. The tackiness of the film (slip additives) and the condition of the dart surface also influence the values determined by this test. As dart impact is not tested in any specific film direction, it is sensitive to chain orientation in both directions. Best impact strength are usually obtained when the orientation is balanced in the Machine Direction and Cross Direction.

Principle

The test method is according to ASTM D1709

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to learn:
The procedure to analysethe Compatibility of Food Packaging Materials Using Shelf- Life.

Introduction

When testing a food product for shelf-life and stability, the packaging is a major factor to be considered. It is necessary to carry out stability testing in the packaging intended for marketing due to interactions that may occur between the package, the product and the environment. Testing is also important for establishing the correct specifications for procurement and quality control of incoming materials.

The standards of packaging materials play a significant role in establishing optimum packaging specification. Properties of packaging materials like plastic and paper are affected by variables like temperature and humidity. Sensitivity of the packaging material to heat, light and moisture is due to their chemical nature. Compatibility of the packaging is as significant as development of the packaging systems or selecting packaging materials for food products.

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to learn:
How to  determine the caliper/GSM of paperboard.

Introduction

Thickness is calculated as the perpendicular distance between the two principle surfaces of paper or paperboard as measured under specified conditions. The GSM of paper may be defined as the thickness of a paper that is measured in a roundabout way. GSM stands for Gms per Square Metre - and is used to check the quality of the paper to be measured.

It is a very simple to perform test but tells a lot about the basic properties of the material which are very important to decide the quality of the material. Also, the quality of the material is measured with its GSM value. The heavier a paperboard is, the better the quality.

Principle

Packaging materials are chosen by estimating the GSM of the sample material. High Grammage defines the strength of the paper. In certain applications high Grammage is desired, where the paper will be subjected to load and harsh working conditions.

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to:
Calculate the Burst strength of the given paper and Board.
Introduction

Bursting strength is defined as the measure of resistance to rupture in various materials. A test specimen is held between two circular clamps and subjected to an increasing pressure from a rubber diaphragm. The rubber diaphragm keeps on expanding with the help of a controlled pneumatic pressure until the test specimen ruptures. The pressure required to rupture the specimen at the time of reading is known as bursting strength.

Principle

The bursting strength of paper, paper board, including linerboard and corrugated board, is a combined measure of properties of the sheet, like tensile strength and elongation. In general, bursting strength is dependent on the type, proportion, preparation and amount of fibres present in the sheet and their formation, internal sizing, and to some degree, the surface treatment. Since bursting strength is an empirical property, this test serves to define “standard grades” in commercial activity in combination with basis weight.

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to learn:
The water absorption of packaging material by Cobb method.
Introduction

The water absorptive capacity, or Cobb value, is defined as the mass of water absorbed in a specific time by 1 square meter of paper, board, or corrugated f iberboard under a head of 1 cm of water. To determine this value, conditioned test pieces are weighed before and after being exposed to water under specified conditions. The excess water is removed using blotting paper and a brass roller of defined dimensions and weight. The test piece is weighed immediately before and after exposure to water for a specified duration on one surface. The increase in mass due to water absorption is expressed in grams per square meter (g/m²).

The Cobb value defines the water absorbency of paper as the amount of water absorbed by one side of a unit area of paper or board placed horizontally under a 1 cm water head within a given time.

Principle

This method, developed by Cobb, measures the amount of water absorbed by paper, paperboard, or corrugated fiberboard over a specified period under standardized conditions. It is applicable to paper or board that is not fully penetrated by water during the selected absorption time.

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to learn :
The Scuff Resistance of the Printed Sample.
Introduction

Scuff resistance or abrasion resistance is a desirable and sometimes critical property of printed materials. Abrasion damage can occur during shipment, storage, handling, and end use. The result is a significant decrease in product appearance and legibility of product information. A printed substrate's level of abrasion damage is influenced by numerous factors, including time, temperature, humidity, and shipping circumstances. This procedure offers a means of comparing printed materials' resistance to scuffs in a lab setting. The relative scuff resistance of printed inks, coatings, laminates, and substrates can also be assessed using this technique. This procedure can be changed to assess how a product—food, drink, powdered detergent, etc.—affects scuff resistance, which might happen when something spills or leaks while being transported. Labels, folding cartons, corrugated boxes, circulars, inserts, and other packaging materials with applied graphics on a flat substrate can all use this technique.

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to learn:
Gas / Vacuum packaging of foods and study their shelf life studies.

Introduction

Vacuum packaging is a food preservation technique that removes air from the package before sealing. This method involves manually or automatically placing items in a plastic film package, extracting the air, and sealing the package. The primary goal of vacuum packaging is to remove oxygen from the container to extend the shelf life of foods and, in the case of flexible packages, to reduce the volume of the contents and package. Shrink films are sometimes used to create a tight fit around the contents. Vacuum packaging is commonly used to store dry foods like cereals, nuts, cured meats, cheese, and coffee for extended periods. For short-term storage, vacuum packaging can also be used for fresh foods, such as vegetables and liquids, as it inhibits bacterial growth.

Objective

After performing this experiment you will be able to learn:

Special quality assurance needs, good manufacturing practices, HACCP, validation protocols, etc.

Introduction

Packaging is a very important element in product quality maintenance that is why quality of packaging has great influence and its quality assurance is necessary. Physical flow in the supply chain may deteriorate some packaging features, so their monitoring and proper conditions of storage, transport and suitable protection are important.

The quality of packaging is essential; it is an important element of product quality and supply chain effectiveness. Packaging is influenced by quality of raw materials, proper conduct of the production, storage, transport and distribution processes in a company. That is why a lot of companies implement quality assurance or management systems. In regards to packaging risk categories there are different requirements.

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to:
Perform the cut out test for the given sample of food product.
Principle

The cut-out test is conducted to evaluate the overall quality of canned food. This test involves examining the condition of the food contents, the external and internal state of the can, and other characteristics of the product through various organoleptic, physical, and chemical assessments.

Materials and Equipment

1. Canned food: 4?6 nos. Cans

2. Tone tester

3. Physical balance

4. Vacuum gauge

5. Can opener

6. Brix refractometer

7. Scale

8. pH paper near neutral ranges.

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to learn:
The effect of can close temperature on the resultant vacuum produced.
Principle

The unfilled volume of the hermetic (air-tight) food container usually referred to as the headspace, is a most important part of the container –contents system. In the majority of canned foods, the headspace consists of air and water vapor. Whereas a canned food would keep for a long time i.e. minimum two years of shelf life, stable, only if a certain degree of vacuum is created inside the can. The degree to which air has been extracted from a hermetic food container is measured by the pressure inside, which is referred to as vacuum. A vacuum of -101 kPa would mean that all of the gas has been expelled from the container; a vacuum of zero would mean that the pressure in the headspace is equal to atmospheric pressure. The difference between the pressure within the container and the air pressure is measured by a vacuum gauge.

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to learn:
Thermal Shock Resistance in Glass.

Principle

Thermal shock occurs when different parts of an object expand at different rates due to a thermal gradient. This differential expansion creates stress or strain within the material. If this stress exceeds the material's strength, it can lead to the formation of cracks. If these cracks are not stopped from propagating, they can cause the material to fail structurally. Thermal shock is quantified by the temperature difference between the heated temperature T1 and the cold water bath temperature T2 to which the object is subsequently exposed, which can reveal any cracks or damage.

Purpose of Thermal Shock Test

Glass items often experience significant temperature changes during normal use, and the thermal shock test is designed to ensure their resistance to such conditions. For example, moving a casserole dish from a hot oven to a cool countertop might be enough to cause it to break. This test evaluates the quality, durability, and strength of glass packaging materials used for both solid and liquid food products.

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to learn 
Determination of porosity of tin plate.

Introduction

Porosity in tinplate refers to the presence of tiny holes or pores in the tin coating on steel sheets used for making tin cans. These pores can expose the underlying steel to the contents of the can, potentially leading to corrosion and contamination of the food product. Ensuring minimal porosity is crucial for maintaining the integrity and safety of food packaging. Tinplate is produced by coating a thin layer of tin onto a steel sheet. This can be done through hot dipping or electroplating. The goal is to create a uniform and continuous tin layer that acts as a protective barrier against corrosion. During the coating process, imperfections such as pores or pinholes can form in the tin layer. These imperfections can occur due to variations in the coating thickness, impurities in the tin, or mechanical damage during handling and processing.When a tinplate can with porosity is filled with food, the contents can come into direct contact with the exposed steel through the pores.The acidic or basic nature of certain food products can accelerate the corrosion of the exposed steel, leading to the formation of rust.This corrosion can compromise the structural integrity of the can and potentially contaminate the food with rust particles or harmful by-products of the corrosion process. The primary function of the tin coating is to act as a physical barrier that prevents the food from contacting the steel. A continuous and defect-free tin layer ensures effective protection.Tin also provides cathodic protection to the steel. In the presence of an electrolyte (e.g., acidic food), tin acts as the sacrificial anode, corroding preferentially to the steel. However, this mechanism is only effective if the tin layer is relatively thick and the porosity is minimal.

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to learn:
Identification of paper and paperboard.

Introduction

Paper can be broadly classified into two categories: coarse papers, which are normally made of unbleached Kraft softwood pulp and used for packing, and f ine papers, which are usually composed of bleached pulp and used for writing paper, bond, ledger, book, and cover sheets.

The main types of packaging papers are:

Kraft paper

Usually produced on a Fourdrinier machine, kraft paper is gritty and incredibly strong. It is then either machine-glazed on a Yankee dryer or machine-finished on a calendar. Sometimes it isn't calendared so that the rough surface will keep the bags from slipping over one another when they're stacked on pallets.

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to learn:
How to do edible packaging of food sample.

Introduction

Edible Packaging – An edible film or coating is simply defined as a thin continuous layer of edible material formed on, placed on, or between the foods or food components. The package is an integral part of the food, which can be eaten as a part of the whole food product.

Edible packaging can be done in two types:

Edible coating: Edible coating are applied and formed directly on food (e.g. by spraying, immersion, and fluidization) via a coating solution. This will be a part of the food and must not provoke unwanted change (organoleptic, physical, and chemical).

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to learn:
Physical tests of packaging material.
I. Determination of Machine Direction 
Introduction
Machine-made paper has two directions and two sides:

Directions

a) Machine Direction: The direction in which the paper or board aligns with the flow of material on the paper machine.

b) Cross Direction: The direction perpendicular to the machine direction

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to learn:
Moisture content of packaging material.

Introduction

The moisture content of paper is a critical parameter that significantly affects its other properties, such as printing quality and absorbency. Maintaining an optimal moisture level is essential for ensuring the functionality and durability of the paper. For instance, double-faced corrugated boards tend to break or crack during bending operations if they are too dry.

Procedure

• Weigh the conditioned specimen and place it in a drying oven, maintained at a temperature of 103°C ± 2°C, to expel moisture. Continue heating until a constant weight is achieved.

• If the moisture content of the paper is to be determined "as received," the sample should not be conditioned.

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to learn:
Mildew resistance packaging material.

Introduction

Studying the mildew resistance of paper involves evaluating how well the paper can resist fungal growth under specific conditions. Mildew, a type of mold, can degrade paper quality, causing discoloration, weakening, and unpleasant odors. Here’s a detailed procedure to assess the mildew resistance of paper:

Materials Needed

Paper samples (different types, if comparison is required), Sterile petri dishes, Sterile distilled water

Fungal spore suspension (commonly Aspergillus niger or similar mildew spores), Nutrient medium (e.g., potato dextrose agar or a similar agar that promotes fungal growth), Incubator, Sterile tweezers and scissors, Forceps, Micropipette or dropper, Humidity chamber (can be a sealed container with a saturated salt solution to maintain high humidity), Control samples (untreated paper).

Objective
After performing this experiment you will be able to learn:
pH value of packaging material.

Introduction

As mentioned earlier, these tests are performed to assess the suitability of the board for printing, corrosion protection, food packaging etc. The presence of acid in paper or paper possessing an acidic reaction is a property of specific importance. Not only may the presence of acid effect the aging properties of paper, but it also may act upon materials that come into contact with the paper. In addition, the sizing of paper, wet strength treatment, and dye and fillers retention, usually depend upon the addition of alum or other acidic materials to the beater furnish. Hence many appers are acidic to various degrees at the time of manufacture. pH is a measure of hydrogen ion present which depends both upon the amount of acidic material and upon its degree of ionization. Hence, pH does not measure the amount of acid present. Since it is the 'activity or ‘intensity’ of acid that is usually of most interest, the pH value is the more common test.

Introduction

India was a self-sufficient nation in its food production before independence but after the occurrence of various famines, the government in late 1960s started focusing more on the crop production i.e.,green revolution (NAAS 2019). Use of hybrids, fertilizers and plant protection chemicals increased and major investments were made on irrigation structures which led to a massive jump in the production of crops. But with time, the negative externalities caused by green revolution were vividly noticeable. The indiscriminate use of chemicals has debilitated the environment by causing soil depletion, pollution, deforestation, climate change etc. thus affecting the health of human kind. The lofty prices of inputs led the farmers to resort to debt thus falling into debt trap and suicides. In order to address this problem an alternative to the conventional farming is required which is more sustainable and climate resilient. In the mid-1990s, natural farming viz., Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) was demonstrated by Sh. Subhash Palekar also known Subash Palekar Natural Farming (SPNF). It is an agroecology based diversified farming system which involves no financial outlay to purchase essential from outside and makes farming profitable. Mishra (2018) studied on Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) and found that crops grown under ZBNF evinced higher yield than the crops grown under non-ZBNF.

Introduction

In one or another way, agriculture is integral to the physical and economic survival of every human being. The United Nations forecasts that the global population will reach more than 9 billion by 2050. To feed everyone, food production will have to increase 70 per cent. Helping the world’s farmers to achieve this target is challenging in itself, but beyond providing food, agriculture sustains the economies of most countries in significant ways, especially in the developing world (Anonymous, 2018). To meet this challenge in a fast-changing world, new tools, processes and ways of organizing-i.e. innovations-are needed to make agriculture more efficient in economic, social and environmental terms (Hall, Mytelka and Oyeyinka, 2006). Past efforts have tended to focus solely on technology. Previous approaches to technological change in agriculture have been based around supplying technology in a simplistic, top-down manner. These approaches had some success for relatively simple innovations in conducive settings. However, these simplistic approaches are not adequate for the task of meeting the complicated challenges facing agriculture today. Historically, new agricultural technologies have been developed by public research organizations and then transferred to farmers by public extension services (Sulaiman, 2015).

Developing countries with agrarian economy have been facing challenges arising from climate change causes and consequences. The altered patterns of climate are affecting the yield potential of crops thereby affecting agricultural production, farmers’ income, and livelihoods. Out of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations, the 13th SDG on ‘Climate action to combat climate change and its impacts,’ emphasises the importance and urgency of addressing the effects of climate change in developing nations. It is projected that climate change would have the most detrimental effect on agriculture, the primary source of income for small and marginal farmers in developed nations (Azadi et al., 2021). Building the ability of small and marginal farmers will be crucial to global food security over the next decade (FAO, 2020). World Bank (2018) reported that 800 million South Asian population are at risk of experiencing a decline in their standard of living and incomes due to rising temperatures and more erratic rainfall hampering the agriculture production system. Millions of low-income smallholder farmers, particularly those who rely on agriculture for a living and an income in South Asia, would be directly impacted by a reduction in productivity leading to food supply shortages and price increases.

1. Introduction

Agriculture has always been greatly dependent on climate patterns and variations, and is considered to be particularly at risk to the influences of climate change (James et al., 2014). Climate change is manifest in the form of reduction in rainfall and drought experienced in the last decade, pushing the agrarian community into real distress (MSSRF, 2020). To reduce the adverse impact of climate change on agriculture, adaptation is considered a crucial component of any policy response related with agriculture and climate change (Deressa et al., 2009). Adaptation to climate change involves changes in agricultural management practices in response to changes in climate conditions (Akinnagbe and Irohibe, 2014). Having knowledge about climatic adaptation practices by the farming communities would make them better equipped to deal with climate change related challenges (Mwazi&Ndokosho, 2011). Though smallholder cultivators are one of the most vulnerable groups to climate change, efforts to support their adaptation strategies are hindered by the lack of information on how they are experiencing and responding to climate change (Harvey et al., 2018). Senapati (2019) argues that farm households with access to weather-related information and extension agency contact have lesser level of vulnerability to climate change and enhanced adaptive capacity. Kavi Kumar (2009) contends the need to have region specific adaptation measures in farming as the key to address challenges of climate change.