Enhancement of energy efficiency in greenhouses with solar-selective plastic incorporating ATO nanoparticles

Innovative solutions for enhancing energy efficiency are crucial in the context of escalating energy concerns for greenhouse facilities, particularly during summer and in hot climate zones. This study focuses on the integration of plasmonic nanoparticle coatings into greenhouse coverings, specifically polyethylene (PE) and polycarbonate (PC) plastic films, as a strategy to address these challenges. The primary objective is to improve solar control properties while ensuring adequate photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) for optimal plant growth. The experiment findings reveal that the antimony tin oxide (ATO) nanoparticle coatings significantly reduce summer heat gain—41.5% for PE and 42.4% for PC, thus leading to a reduction in cooling energy demands in greenhouses. Spectral analysis and energy estimation demonstrate a slight decrease in PAR transmission due to the coatings, which can be effectively compensated with energy-efficient LED lighting. The study underscores that the application of ATO nanocoatings on PE and PC films strikes a balance between solar radiation mitigation and maintaining necessary PAR levels, resulting in substantial energy savings. These advancements align with the principles of clean energy and environmental policy, offering a sustainable approach to greenhouse management. By significantly reducing the operational energy footprint of greenhouses, this research contributes to the broader goals of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship in agricultural practices.