UTILIZING TURBINE EXHAUST GASES FOR HEATING AND CARBON DIOXIDE ENRICHMENT OF GREENHOUSES

In 1974 an experimental greenhouse was constructed to evaluate utilizing the exhaust from a turbine fired with natural gas for greenhouse heating and CO₂ enrichment.
The exhaust gases could not be released directly into the growing space because they contain toxic amounts of NO and NO₂. In order to use the heat and CO₂ of the exhaust gases economically, a membrane system involving polyethylene is utilized to separate CO₂ from the noxious components.
A distribution system for the gases has been developed to meet the heating requirements down to -40°C and to result in a greenhouse CO₂ level from 1500 to 5000 ppm, depending on the demand for heat.

Only tomatoes have been tested to date.
Plants receiving heat and simultaneous CO₂ enhancement from exhaust gases produced at least 15% more fruit than those heated conventionally.
Marketing trials have shown the fruit to have consumer appeal, while the heating and CO₂ enrichment system has distinct economic benefits.

Symposium on More Profitable Use of Energy in Protected Cultivation

E.A. Maginnes, M.O. Haukeness, G.H. Green, K.E. Miller

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.1978.76.33