How can vertical farmers ensure proper ventilation in their facilities?

2 Factors that affect ventilation

Ventilation in vertical farms is determined by a variety of factors, including the size and layout of the facility and the growing units, the type and density of plants, the lighting system, the climate outside the facility, and the ventilation system. The transpiration rates of plants, the heat output and distribution of lighting systems, and the design, capacity, and efficiency of ventilation systems all play a role in ensuring proper ventilation in vertical farms.

3 Types of ventilation systems

There are two main types of ventilation systems for vertical farms: natural and mechanical. Natural ventilation relies on openings, windows, vents, or chimneys that allow air to flow in and out of the facility by natural forces, such as wind or convection. Mechanical ventilation uses fans, ducts, filters, or other devices that force air to move in and out of the facility by electrical or mechanical power.

4 Advantages and disadvantages of natural ventilation

Natural ventilation has some advantages, such as being cheaper and easier to install and maintain, being more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, as well as providing more natural light and air quality. However, natural ventilation has some drawbacks too, such as being less reliable and controllable, being affected by external factors like noise, dust, or pollution, and causing uneven or insufficient ventilation in certain areas or layers.

5 Advantages and disadvantages of mechanical ventilation

Mechanical ventilation offers several advantages, such as being more reliable and controllable, as well as providing uniform and adequate ventilation in all areas and layers that can be adjusted to suit different plant needs and conditions. However, there are some drawbacks to mechanical ventilation, such as being more expensive and complex to install and maintain, more energy-intensive, potentially noisy, and creating more waste and emissions.