AN EXPERIMENT ON THE OPTIMIZATION OF CO₂ IN GREENHOUSE CLIMATE CONTROL

This paper describes a CO₂ optimization experiment with a tomato crop.
The optimal CO₂ setpoints were calculated by means of balancing the benefits associated with the marketable produce against the costs associated with its production.
The calculations use a growth model, physical models, a photosynthesis model and a dry matter distribution model.
A CO₂ balance is calculated using the photosynthesis model.
The price of CO₂ and the expected market price are inserted in the calculations.
A numerical optimization algorithm is used to calculate the CO₂ setpoint maximizing the profit.
The results are given concerning the CO₂ control and realisation of the calculated setpoints and the calculated crop production with respect to harvest fruit.
The performance of the CO₂ controller is discussed from a technical point of view and suggestions for improvement are given.

II Symposium on Protected Cultivation of Solanacea in Mild Winter Climates

W.Th.M. van Meurs, E.J. van Henten

CO₂ enrichment, optimization, climate control, tomatoes

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.1994.366.24