Simulation of ambient temperature and humidity distribution in eight-span greenhouse under different wind conditions and corn height

The greenhouse environment suitable for crop growth usually depends on reasonable ventilation, and outdoor air flow state and indoor crop height are important factors affecting the ventilation effect. This study conducted simulation and experimental research on corn cultivation in an eight-span plastic greenhouse, analyzing the effects of outdoor wind speed, wind direction, and indoor crop height variations on the uniformity of temperature and relative humidity distribution as well as the air flow dynamics within the greenhouse. The study shows that as outdoor wind speed increases from 0.5 m/s to 2.5 m/s, for every 1 m/s increment, temperatures decrease by 2.2 °C and 0.9 °C, respectively. The increase in outdoor wind speed resulted in uniformity of greenhouse temperature and humidity along the vertical height, but exacerbated the degree of inhomogeneity in the east-west direction. The change in outdoor wind direction leads to differences in airflow direction and ventilation volume. On the south side of the greenhouse, while temperature is lower, the relative humidity is higher, with maximum differences in temperature and humidity between the north and south sides being 0.6 °C and 1.5 %, respectively, when the northeast wind blows. The east wind has the best cooling effect. The uneven degree of temperature and humidity distribution in the east and west direction of the greenhouse is positively correlated with crop height. This study can provide valuable insights for adjusting and optimizing natural ventilation strategies in large multi-span greenhouses.