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One general rule recommended as a safeguard is that the moisture level with which grain is stored in bags not be greater than base moisture standard used for commercialization purposes. The lower the grain’s moisture, the better it will keep and the longer the period of time it can remain in storage. In the case of seeds, the conditions are stricter. |
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As the moisture levels of the grain to be bagged increase, so too does the risk of damage. Testing carried out by INTA has shown that the quality of grain with a high moisture content tends to decrease when it is stored in plastic silo bags for longer periods of time than recommended. Grain that is damp runs of course far more risks. Damp grain should only be stored in plastic bags in an emergency, when there is no available alternative. In such cases, trials have shown that installing an 80% sun-blocking mesh as a protective sunroof about 40 centimeters (some 12 inches) above the bag in the spring and summer months, in order to block direct sunlight, will result in lower temperatures inside the bag and sharply reduce the risk of damage. |
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It should always be remembered that although this is a simple technology, extreme care must be exercised in protecting and maintaining the bags’ integrity. Monitoring should be permanent so that any ruptures in the bag can be repaired as soon as possible to prevent atmospheric damage. |
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Particular care should be taken to pick up the leftover plastic sheet after extracting the grain. Plastic remains can contaminate the environment in many ways and are also an eyesore. The polyethylene of the bags is a highly recyclable material, so generally arrangements can be made to sell it or at least to have it picked up free of charge. |
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