While browsing the internet, I came across an intriguing article that compared a plane to a greenhouse. The title immediately caught my attention, prompting me to delve into the contents of this fascinating concept. As someone who is naturally curious, I was compelled to read more about this greenhouse plane.
I was immediately disappointed to find out that the article was in fact about a flight delay in the UK, which was operated by Jet2. According to the article, passengers were kept on the plane for 2 hours and complained about the high temperature, comparing it to being in a greenhouse. Instead of discussing the article further, let’s shift our attention to the factors that contributed to the increased heat inside the plane.
WHAT IS THE GREENHOUSE EFFECT?
The greenhouse effect is a natural process that occurs when certain gases in Earth’s atmosphere trap heat from the sun. In simpler terms, sunlight reaches Earth and warms the planet, while certain gases absorb the thermal radiation emitted by the Earth, preventing it from escaping into space and helping to maintain warmth.
IS IT POSSIBLE TO REPURPOSE A PLANE INTO A DIY GREENHOUSE?
Imagine if the next advancement in greenhouse technology involved repurposing retired aircraft to create eco-friendly hothouses. This would be the next step in do-it-yourself greenhouse projects! It may sound unbelievable, but it has actually been accomplished before. Take a look at the awe-inspiring Grumman greenhouse, which ingeniously utilizes a decommissioned warplane as a unique greenhouse structure.
The solar-powered LED grow lights were installed on the plane’s structure. It is reported that the vegetables and fruits cultivated within this DIY greenhouse or cold frame are provided to families with low incomes.
The Grumman greenhouse makes use of a small portion of this submarine hunter for plant cultivation. However, if an innovator or adventurous DIY enthusiast desires to maximize its potential, they can repurpose a plane body for this purpose.
EXTEND SEASONS WITH A PLANE'S BODY TURNED INTO A HOTHOUSE
The airplane’s structure, constructed from durable yet lightweight materials, can be transformed into a spacious area for cultivation by removing its wings and seats. Additionally, the well-insulated body of the plane creates an ideal microclimate for cultivation, particularly during colder months.
VENTILATION IS KEY, LIKE IN ANY OTHER GREENHOUSE
The plane is constructed using aluminum for its structural framework, allowing for cutting and welding. To promote a healthy growing environment, it is important to ensure proper ventilation by fitting windows on the greenhouse frame or fitting powerful fans at the ends of the body and installing vents on the roof.
POLYETHYLENE OR POLYCARBONATE? HOW TO LET THE SUNLIGHT IN
Lastly, it is important to remove the roof of the plane’s structure. One option is to replace the roof with an inflated polyethylene material, which can be securely attached to the fuselage using spring wire and a lock channel. Alternatively, another do-it-yourself solution would be to install polycarbonate panels that provide both light exposure and insulation from extreme temperatures.
IN CONCLUSION
An airplane’s spaciousness and sturdy construction make it a suitable candidate for conversion into a greenhouse. Although this would differ greatly from the common materials greenhouses are made of, there are several methods available for constructing a polytunnel or glasshouse within the aircraft. The aluminum body of the plane provides insulation against extreme temperatures, creating a microclimate that is conducive to plant growth. Furthermore, installing glass windows on both sides of the aircraft or replacing the roof fuselage with greenhouse covers like polyfilm or poly sheets, along with the addition of vents, can enhance the greenhouse effect.
When she’s writing about greenhouses, Luna puts on her walking boots and enjoys trekking with her friends. Don't be mistaken by her timid look, she's a young woman full of life.
