Application systems for optimal management of monolayer films

Abstract

The NCEA has developed a 'smart' autonomous monolayer application system (SAMAS) capable of adjusting the rate and location of monolayer placement, according to prevailing weather conditions. This system, when combined with new monolayer products currently under development, will allow optimum management of monolayer application. Laboratory studies have been undertaken to characterise monolayer distribution on a water surface under different wind conditions. A computer model has been developed to provide an indication of likely spreading of the monolayer product on a storage dam based on prevailing wind conditions, applicator placement and operating conditions. A monolayer application system was deployed on a 16ha farm dam near Forrest Hill in the Lockyer Valley, South East Queensland (SEQ) to dose a new water-emulsion monolayer product. The trial has indicated the importance of modifying the monolayer application strategy in response to prevailing wind and the need to calibrate the system for future monolayer products. Loss of monolayer film by beaching on the lee shore was also found to be considerable and a floating containment grid will help mitigate future losses.