Cooling capacity assessment of semi-closed greenhouses
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Date
2009-03-31T17:57:58Z
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Abstract
Leading Dutch researchers have reported significant benefits of closed greenhouse systems. Ooteghem (2007) predicted reduced heating fuel consumption and increased crop yield. Opdam et al. (2005) found 19% primary energy use saving, 22% tomatoes production increase, 80% chemical reduction, and 50% irrigation water saving can be achieved in a closed greenhouse. This research proposes to develop a design analysis tool to determine cooling/dehumidification needs, and proper cooling capacity needed to minimize greenhouse ventilation economically for northern climate. A preliminary analysis shows it is expensive to keep greenhouses in Ohio closed year round. Further analysis suggests better return maybe achieved with semi-closed greenhouse designs instead of fully closed operation. For example, a 50% peak load design can meet cooling needs 90% of the time yearly. The proposed tool can be used to specify internal cooling capacity requirements for desired greenhouse closure level.
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CO2 enrichment, dehumidification, northern climate, no-vent, heat storage, recycle heat