Abstract:

Photoregulated agricultural films, serving as key materials for optimizing the light environment in protected agriculture, significantly influence crop photosynthesis, growth, yield and quality by modulating light quality and intensity. This article systematically reviewed global research progress from 1991 to 2025, focusing on their mechanisms, material systems, manufacturing processes and impacted on crop seedling and reproductive growth, eventually summarizing the application effects on different crops. Results indicated that: (1) these films enhance photosynthetic efficiency and ultimately improved yield and quality indicators (e.g., single fruit weight, sugar and vitamin C content) by converting UV and yellow/green light into red/blue radiation or by improving light distribution through scattering. (2) Notable differences existed between Chinese and international preferences: China primarily employed light−converting films on high−value crops like tomatoes and sweet peppers, achieving an average yield increase of 16%−30%; international research emphasized light−selective films for leafy vegetables (e.g., lettuce) and UV−regulating films for enhancing fruit quality, demonstrating broad application potential and significant effects. Future development will focus on novel light−converting materials with high spectral matching efficiency and environmental friendliness, paving the way for these films to become more multifunctional, specialized and biodegradable for broader application in sustainable agriculture.

Key words: Light quality, Regulate and control, Agricultural film, Crop growth