Implementation of HVAC systems to manage the greenhouse climate

Abstract

The increasing global population, coupled with challenges arising from climate change and water scarcity, leads to a heightened vulnerability of food supplies, particularly in advanced countries. Hence, a crucial goal in the coming years will be to enhance crop productivity. Intensive horticulture is poised to play a pivotal role in meeting the rising demand for food. However, in the specific context of greenhouse cultivation, relying solely on passive control of environmental conditions proves insufficient. Consequently, the adoption of active heating/cooling systems becomes imperative. In this study, we conducted an experimental investigation on a double-span greenhouse in a semi-arid region. heating and cooling systems were developed to manage the local climate within the greenhouse. A novel system was designed, and manufactured for solar latent thermal energy storage (LTES) to provide greenhouse heating during the winter, alongside implementing natural ventilation, shading systeme, and employing a second cooling system FAN-PAD system incorporating palm fiber materials to cool the greenhouse during the summer. Our evaluation demonstrates the exceptional efficiency of these integrated systems in effectively controlling the greenhouse climate while maintaining environmental sustainability. The results provide strong evidence for the practical application and effectiveness of this approach in addressing the intricate interplay between greenhouse temperature control and environmental sustainability.