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Computational Fluid Dynamics Model with Realistic Plant Structures to Study Airflow in and around a Plant Canopy on a Cultivation Shelf in a Plant Factory with Artificial Light

Author

Listed:
  • Xuan Gu

    (Graduate School of Horticulture, Chiba University, Matsudo 648, Matsudo 271-8510, Japan)

  • Eiji Goto

    (Research Center for Space Agriculture and Horticulture, Chiba University, Matsudo 648, Matsudo 271-8510, Japan)

Abstract

Airflow plays a crucial role in plant growth because it supplies CO 2 , O 2 , and energy to plants in a plant factory with artificial light (PFAL). Therefore, understanding how various factors affect airflow in and around a plant canopy is essential. In this study, we developed a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model with realistic plant structures created using structure-from-motion imaging to investigate airflow in and around a plant canopy. The averages of the absolute percentage errors of simulated air velocity in three conditions were 6.7%, 10.1%, 12.7%, respectively. The simulated and measured air velocities agreed well, confirming the accuracy of the developed CFD model. The effects of inflow velocities and plant canopy structures on the airflow in and around the plant canopy were analysed using the validated CFD model. The inflow velocities significantly decreased stagnant zones (from 62.4% to 7.2%) and increased the airflow uniformity in and around the plant canopy. A staggered layout of the plant canopy slightly decreased stagnant zones (from 16.4% to 13.2%) and increased the airflow uniformity. The airflow in and around the plant canopy was further inhibited by a large plant structure. This CFD model provided a basis for improving the airflow status in and around a plant canopy in a PFAL.

Suggested Citation

  • Xuan Gu & Eiji Goto, 2024. "Computational Fluid Dynamics Model with Realistic Plant Structures to Study Airflow in and around a Plant Canopy on a Cultivation Shelf in a Plant Factory with Artificial Light," Agriculture, MDPI, vol. 14(7), pages 1-16, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jagris:v:14:y:2024:i:7:p:1199-:d:1439766
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Yu Haibo & Zhang Lei & Yu Haiye & Liu Yucheng & Liu Chunhui & Sui Yuanyuan, 2023. "Sustainable Development Optimization of a Plant Factory for Reducing Tip Burn Disease," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(6), pages 1-16, March.
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