Silo2block® oxygen barrier film has been developed specifically to combat this challenge, offering farmers and AD plant operators a high-performance solution designed to maximise airtight protection and safeguard valuable forage.

In this detailed review, we examine how Silo2block® works, its key performance benefits, practical application considerations, and why it has become a trusted choice for modern silage systems.

What Is Silo2block® Oxygen Barrier Film?

Silo2block® oxygen barrier film is a high-performance multi-layer silage covering film designed to significantly reduce oxygen transmission compared to conventional polyethylene sheets. It is typically used as part of a complete clamp sealing system, positioned directly on the forage surface to create an effective oxygen barrier before applying protective cover netting and then silage rings for weight to hold all in place.

Unlike standard PE films that rely primarily on thickness for performance, Silo2block® incorporates advanced barrier technology (EVOH layer) that actively limits oxygen ingress. This helps create and maintain the anaerobic environment required for optimal fermentation.

Why Oxygen Control Matters

Silage preservation depends on rapid fermentation under anaerobic (oxygen-free) conditions. When oxygen remains present in the clamp:

• Aerobic microorganisms remain active
• Heating occurs
• Mould and yeast growth increases
• Dry matter losses accelerate
• Feed value declines
  

Even after initial fermentation, oxygen penetration at the surface and shoulders of the clamp can cause significant spoilage during feed-out. Research consistently shows that top-layer losses can be among the highest in the entire clamp.

By dramatically reducing oxygen transmission, Silo2block® addresses the core cause of these losses rather than simply masking the symptoms.

Key Features and Performance Benefits

1. Exceptional Oxygen Barrier Properties

The defining feature of Silo2block® is its ultra-low oxygen permeability. Compared to traditional polyethylene films, it significantly reduces the rate at which air can pass through the sheet. This results in:

• Faster stabilisation of fermentation
• Reduced surface spoilage
• Improved aerobic stability during feed-out
• Lower dry matter losses

For farms producing high-value maize, wholecrop or grass silage, even small percentage improvements in preservation can translate into substantial financial returns.

2. Improved Forage Quality Retention

By minimising oxygen ingress, Silo2block® helps maintain:

• Higher energy values
• Better protein retention
• Improved palatability
• Reduced mycotoxin risk
  

This ultimately supports better livestock performance, whether in dairy, beef, or sheep systems. Cleaner, cooler silage at feed-out reduces waste and promotes more consistent intakes.

3. Multi-Layer Technology for Durability

While oxygen barrier performance is critical, physical durability is equally important. Silo2block® is manufactured using advanced multi-layer technology that combines flexibility with strength.

Benefits include:

• 100µm reduced thickness film
• Excellent cling to the forage surface
• Strong puncture resistance
• Very high tear strength
• Consistent performance across varying temperatures
  

The film conforms closely to the silage surface, reducing trapped air pockets and enhancing sealing efficiency.

4. Cost-Effective Through Reduced Losses

Although oxygen barrier films may carry a higher upfront cost compared to standard PE sheets, the return on investment is often compelling.

Consider the potential savings from:

• Reduced top-layer waste
• Less discarded mouldy silage
• Lower concentrate supplementation needs
• Improved milk yield or liveweight gain
• Reduced DM losses
• Reduced mycotoxin risks
• Reduced labour costs on multi-cut systems - only one sheet to take off and on as apposed to two with clingfilm & PE topsheet style covering
  

When dry matter losses are reduced by even a few percentage points, the financial benefit will outweigh the additional film cost.

5. Application and Best Practice

To achieve optimal performance, Silo2block® should be used as part of a complete silage sealing system.

Recommended Method:

1. Use a high quality PE sidewall film (150µm thick)
2. Fill the clamp in thin wedge shaped layers
3. Ensure the clamp is well consolidated and evenly levelled.
4. Apply Silo2block® directly onto the forage surface immediately after rolling.
5. Ensure full surface contact.
6. Cover with a high-quality 220g/m protective cover netting.
7. Secure using gravel bags, tyres, or silage rings to maintain pressure.
   

Proper weighting is essential. Even the best oxygen barrier film cannot perform effectively if wind lift or poor sealing allows air entry at the edges.

Performance in Different Silage Systems

Silo2block® is suitable for:

• Bunker silos
• Clamp silos
• Drive-over piles (field clamps)
• High dry matter maize silage
• Wilted grass silage
• Wholecrop silage
  

It is particularly beneficial in larger clamps where surface area losses can represent a significant volume of total stored forage, with our huge range of Silo2block® sheet sizes from 8m wide to 56m wide in 2m increments, and roll lengths of 50m, 100m, 150m 200m & 400m jumbo rolls there is a roll size to suit all sizes of clamp large or small - the use of the longer jumbo roll's greatly reduce film wastage, just pull off what you need, cut the film off the roll and go again! Far less short end pieces left over than when using multiple shorter rolls.

In warmer climates or during long storage periods, its enhanced oxygen barrier properties become even more valuable.

Comparison with Standard PE Films

Traditional polyethylene films rely primarily on thickness (micron rating) to slow oxygen transmission. However, thicker does not necessarily mean better oxygen resistance.

Silo2block® differs by incorporating true oxygen barrier technology (EVOH layer) rather than simply increasing plastic gauge. This results in:

• Superior oxygen control at lower thickness
• Better surface conformity
• Enhanced fermentation stability
  

The Silo2block® system delivers both oxygen barrier protection and mechanical strength.

Environmental and Waste Considerations

Improved preservation efficiency also contributes to sustainability goals. By reducing spoilage and feed waste, Silo2block® supports:

• Lower methane emissions from wasted silage
• Reduced requirement for replacement feed
• Improved feed efficiency in livestock systems
  

Additionally, reducing discarded spoiled silage minimises environmental contamination risks.

As with all agricultural plastics, responsible recycling or recovery programs should be followed after use.

Real-World Value for Farmers

From a practical farm perspective, the benefits of Silo2block® are most evident at feed-out:

• Cleaner clamp face
• Reduced heating
• Less mould formation
• Reduced mycotoxin risk
• Improved consistency across the surface
  

Farmers often report visibly improved top-layer condition compared to conventional sheeting systems.

In high-output dairy systems where forage quality directly impacts milk yield, the performance difference can be especially noticeable.

Potential Considerations

While highly effective, Silo2block® requires correct handling:

• It should be applied promptly after filling.
• Adequate weighting is essential.
• Edges and sidewalls must be properly sealed.
  

It is not a replacement for good silage-making practice — it enhances it. Proper compaction, rapid sealing, and effective management remain critical.

Final Verdict

Silo2block® oxygen barrier film represents a significant advancement in silage preservation technology. By targeting oxygen infiltration — the primary cause of spoilage — it delivers measurable improvements in forage quality retention, aerobic stability, and dry matter preservation.

For farmers focused on maximising feed value, reducing waste, and improving livestock performance, Silo2block® offers a high-performance solution with strong return-on-investment potential.

When used as part of a complete sealing system alongside quality protective cover netting and proper weighting, it provides a reliable, professional-grade approach to modern silage management.

In an industry where margins matter and feed quality drives productivity, Silo2block® stands out as a smart investment in forage protection and long-term efficiency.