Connecting Composting and Greenhouses: An Energy Capture and Usage Model

Author

Dena M. HoffmanFollow

Date of Award

Fall 2019

Project Type

Senior Honors Thesis

College or School

COLSA

Department

Natural Resources and the Environment

Program or Major

Environmental Sciences: Ecosystems

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

First Advisor

John Aber

Abstract

At the Organic Dairy Research Farm in Lee, New Hampshire, the practice of aerated static composting is researched for potential heat capture. In early 2019, an Excel model was created to illustrate the ability of greenhouses to retain heat during a cold month of January and the total energy balance for each day. This model shows that an average greenhouse, based on the dimensions of the greenhouse at Kingman Farm, requires an additional, external heat source to supplement its heating needs. By adding the heat generated by the aerated static composting pile to the greenhouse in the Excel model, the greenhouse is able to run without needing the additional heat.

Recommended Citation

Hoffman, Dena M., "Connecting Composting and Greenhouses: An Energy Capture and Usage Model" (2019). Honors Theses and Capstones. 485.
https://scholars.unh.edu/honors/485