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a b s t r a c tThe present study analyzes the environmental and economic performance of the use of PCM as a root zone temperature control system in substitution of conventional gas, oil and biomass heating systems by using life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle accounting (LCCA) methodologies. This study is focused on the possible application of these systems in a multitunel greenhouse situated in southern Spain. For the study was assumed a crop productivity increase of 20% when root zone temperature control systems are applied. Results showed that gas, oil and biomass conventional heating systems reduce farmer's net benefit and increase the environmental impact of each kg of produced tomato despite the assumed increase of productivity. Significant environmental and economic benefits are obtained for PCM in relation with the use of gas and oil root zone heating systems. In relation with biomass, heating system economical advantage is obtained but environmental results are similar. When analyzing PCM scenario in comparison with conventional production without heating systems, no significant positive results were obtained. To reduce tomato production CO 2 emissions and costs, yield production should increase 8.5% and 18% respectively.

Root zone heating systems offer increasing crops quality and productivity. However, these systems are based on the use of nonrenewable fuels. This paper reports on a study of different design solutions for a root zone heating system, based on thermal energy storage with PCM. The objective of the study was to define, through multiple experiments, the most efficient PCM melting/freezing temperature and location with respect to the substrate (i.e., under the substrate) for the application under study; as well as, to determine the system's environmental and economic feasibility, with life cycle assessment and life cycle cost methodologies. Results show that the best melting temperature for the application under study is 15⁰C. To increase the efficiency of the system, PCMs may be macro encapsulated and wrap the entire perlite bag. Moreover, it seems that PCMs are far to substitute conventional root zone heating systems because it does not provided enough heat during nights. Nevertheless, PCMs can help to reduce the operation time of conventional systems. Based on one night results it seem that PCM could provide annual saving of between 22-30 kg of eq. CO 2 /ha•day. However, it does not seem to be feasible if PCM prices (8€/kg) do not decrease significantly. Keywords Phase Change Materials (PCM) / Root zone heating / Soilless crops / Environmental assessment / Economic assessment Highlights  The thermal behavior of a perlite bag from a Mediterranean soilless protected crop is described.  A TES system with PCM to heat plants roots in soilless crops is studied with multiple experiments.  The best PCM phase change temperature for the application seems to be 15⁰C.  The most effective PCM location consists of wrapping the perlite bag.  20-30 Kg of eq. CO 2 emissions could be saved per hectare and night.Post-print of Llorach-Massana, Pere et al. «Analysis of the technical, environmental and economic potential of phase change materials (PCM) for root zone heating in

The new COVID-19 context has transported work to a domestic setting. These new locations, heterotopic, do not always adequately respond to user needs.This paper explores the relationship between the domestic built environment and certain elements that shape it, the perception, emotional state and productivity of the users.A pilot case study was carried out with 11 volunteers who evaluated their home offices for seven work days using physical environment tools, two tests -fixed data and daily evaluation-. Also, environmental parameters of the territory were monitored.Among the main findings, we observed that the perception of size does not relate to actual size; a balcony is associated with happiness and calm. We have verified how biophilic elements promote well-being. Happiness and calm are related to hight and low levels of lux. There is a tendency of happiness associated with collaborative tasks, and calm with individual ones. This article opens up a path for exploratory research on resilient situations in which physical barriers force people to seek creative solutions and offers tools to empower users. Current trends in data-driven design and teleworking support research proposals like this one, with a focus on well-being, productivity.

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