Improvement of energy efficiency in plant factories through the measurement of plant bioelectrical potential

Abstract

To create the best environment for plant growth, research is needed to resolve the economic challenges faced by plant factories using methods such as energy-efficient artificial lighting and light control technology. Plants react sensitively to environmental changes in temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide, and to changes in the wavelength and intensity of light. Among these environmental factors, light is essential for photosynthesis. Therefore, to promote plant growth and improve energy savings in plant factories, we need a better understanding of the appropriate light wavelength and the PPFD (Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density) required by each type of plant. In this paper, a system has been designed to measure and analyze the plant bioelectrical potential which differs depending on the type of plant and the lighting conditions. This experiment identifies the optimal lighting environment for different types of plants through a comparative analysis process of growth rate and energy consumption. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.