IN-24-C021 - Application Evaluation of Smart Farm Module Using Carbon Dioxide from Hydrogen Fuel Cell System in Apartments

Numerous hydrogen fuel cell systems for zero-energy buildings are widely distributed in residential buildings in South Korea. However, the so-called gray hydrogen0based hydrogen fuel cells generate carbon dioxide during the methane reforming process, which comprises their status as a clean energy source. To mitigate carbon emissions, a novel fuel cell-smart farm linkage system has been proposed. This system leverages high carbon dioxide concentrations, a byproduct of fuel cells, to accelerate plan growth. For effective indoor applications, it is crucial to design smart farms with appropriate size and scenario considerations. In this study, various lettuce species, which are cultivated in smart farms and are easily consumable by residents, were examined to determine their growth rate and abundance under high concentrations of CO2. The results of the cultivation experiment indicated that the weight of lettuce treated with carbon dioxide (Romaine, 9.5 g; Cheongchima, 100.3 g; JangSu, 65 g) was greater than that of the untreated control (Romaine, 8.8 g; Cheongchima, 77.8 g; JangSu, 34.7 g). In addition, this study suggests as modularized smart farm capable of reducing emissions from hydrogen fuel cells. Computational fluid dynamics analysis indicates that an optimal air conditioning facility within the module can create an environment conducive to the best growth of vegetables. A scenario involving a lower air supply and upper exhaust was employed to achieve an even concentration distribution.