Articles
THERMAL SCREENS FOR GREENHOUSE ENERGY EFFECTIVENESS
Article number
87_9
Pages
111 – 118
Language
Abstract
Past research at NIAE has adequately quantified the energy saving potential of withdrawable, film-plastic screens which cover the growing crop in a greenhouse at night.
The greatest reduction in heat loss (over 50%) is made when the thermal screen is impermeable and has metallized surfaces; the financial benefits can be calculated but the possible disadvantages arising from the modified crop environment are not so readily assessed.
A balance may have to be struck between excessive humidity and heat saving potential.
With this in mind, the properties of different permeable materials have been studied in the laboratory and an initial selection used in glasshouse experiments.
The greatest reduction in heat loss (over 50%) is made when the thermal screen is impermeable and has metallized surfaces; the financial benefits can be calculated but the possible disadvantages arising from the modified crop environment are not so readily assessed.
A balance may have to be struck between excessive humidity and heat saving potential.
With this in mind, the properties of different permeable materials have been studied in the laboratory and an initial selection used in glasshouse experiments.
Authors
K.W. Winspear, B.J. Bailey
Keywords
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