RSS Feeds

Earth Science

Space Science

Life Science

Fields of Scientific Study

Nanotechnology

Cancer

Definitions of The Fields of Scientific Study

Something new under the Sun

January 31, 2007

That plants grow better if grown in a greenhouse in the correct climate is nothing new. Dutch researcher Rachel van Ooteghem has designed a control system for an improved solar greenhouse that yields more. In the new greenhouse, good climate control with sustainable energy resulted not only in an increased crop yield but also a lower gas bill.

Factors such as temperature, carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration and relative humidity must be controlled as accurately as possible for optimum crop growth. Van Ooteghem designed an optimal control system for a solar greenhouse with an improved roof cover, heat regulation system and humidity regulation system. In current greenhouses the climate is often adjusted with the help of fossil fuels: the heating in the greenhouse is switched on. Furthermore the greenhouse can be ventilated to decrease humidity and reduce the temperature. Thanks to modifications and Van Ooteghem's new control system less energy is lost and excess heat is reused. This means that sustainable energy can be used to control the climate in the greenhouse efficiently.

Control system

Van Ooteghem has developed a control system that maintains the correct climate in the greenhouse, whatever the weather outside. Different climate factors in the greenhouse, such as temperature and relative humidity, can be measured. Subsequently the correct adjustments to the settings of the greenhouse are made to maintain the optimum climate. The precise nature of an 'optimum' climate depends on the objective. For example, the aim might be to maximise the crop yield while minimising the gas usage. With the aid of a model of the greenhouse climate and the crop the new control system can increase the crop yield by 39% while reducing the gas usage by 52%.

Rachel van Ooteghem's research was funded by NWO.

Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research

More Solar Greenhouse Current Events and Solar Greenhouse News Articles

	The Earth Sheltered Solar Greenhouse Book by Mike Oehler (Author), Mike Oehler (Editor), Ross; Anita Bedard; Katie Purviance; Cassie Eisenhower; Chandel Oyharsabal; Sarah Tye; David Fairall (Editor) The Earth-Sheltered Solar Greenhouse Book is the first to promote the benefits of both passive solar energy and earth sheltering in greenhouse design. This combination results in greenhouses which need no additional heating. The captured sun s energy and that which is stored in the earth is enough for successful year round harvest. Gone are costly heating bills. Gone is the squander of non-renewable energy resources. This is because above-ground greenhouses get natural heat at night from only one side, the floor. They lose heat from the other five sides. The properly designed earth-sheltered greenhouse is naturally warmed at night -- and in the winter -- from five sides and loses heat from only one. The ratio is exactly reversed. This book has it all. It takes you step by step through...
	Solar Greenhouse Book by James C. McCullagh (Editor)
	The Food and Heat Producing Solar Greenhouse: Design, Construction, Operation by Rick Fisher (Author), Bill Yanda (Author)
	Building a Solar Heated Pit Greenhouse by Greg Stone (Author) Since 1973, Storey's Country Wisdom Bulletins have offered practical, hands-on instructions designed to help readers master dozens of country living skills quickly and easily. There are now more than 170 titles in this series, and their remarkable popularity reflects the common desire of country and city dwellers alike to cultivate personal independence in everyday life.
	GS16L Light My Shed 2 Solar Lighting Solution by Gama Sonic GS16L NEW Light My Shed 2 Solar Lighting Solution
	Solar Shed Vent - Solar Ventilator for Shed, RV, Greenhouses, Boats by Earthtech Products Ideal for sheds, cabins, RVs and greenhouses. Includes 3 covers (Green, Brown & Clear) to match backround. Will fit any standard 4" round or square vent. Provides 1,000 cu. ft. of airflow per hour. Dimensions: Exterior cover: 10-1/2" dia. Total height: 6", Vent: 4" dia. Ideal for conservatories & greenhouses to promote healthy plant growth by replenishing CO2 supply. Also great for cabins, sheds and RV's
	Home Solar Gardening: Solar Greenhouses For Your House, Backyard or Apartment by John H. Pierce (Author) Home Solar Gardening, has provided readers with expert advice on every aspect of solar growing. Now updated for the 90's, this step-by-step guide will appeal to both seasoned solar gardeners and novice alike.
	Solar Roof vent for Car, RV, Shed, Boat, Greenhouse by Everestep This Solar Roof Vent can be mounted on a wall if the sun will directly hit the solar panel. It is made for venting small structures like RVs, Sheds or Cars. It uses its built in solar panel to power its built in fan motor. It moves air slowly and quietly.
	The New Business Climate: A Guide to Lower Carbon Emissions and Better Business Performance by Rocky Mountain Institute Using The New Business Climate as a guide, businesses can gain competitive advantage, manage risks, and increase profitability by choosing a proactive carbon emissions reduction strategy.
	Solar Gardening: Growing Vegetables Year-Round the American Intensive Way (The Real Goods Independent Living Books) by Leandre Poisson (Author), Gretchen Vogel Poisson (Author)