Greenhouse in Antarctica

In the summer seasons of 1979/80 and 198O/8l the Antarctic Research Unit of the University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand constructed and used a bubble greenhouse in Antarctica. The greenhouses were A-frame in general form and were covered with two or three layers of bubble plastic. Despite subzero, freezing temperatures on all days the greenhouse was maintained at a reasonable temperature by virtue of the almost continuous sunshine.

Results
It was demonstrated that using simple design and cheap materials, solar energy can be tapped for direct heating and ice melting by Antarctic bases and stationary field parties. It is unlikely for there to be any advantage in using greenhouses to grow food supplies since transport from New Zealand is relatively frequent. However, for stationary field parties a similar structure could be of considerable use for heated working conditions and comfortable working. Certainly, thoughtful design of buildings, both permanent and temporary could increase comfort and reduce fuel costs by effective use of direct solar radiation for heating, lighting and ice melting.

A greenhouse, working at freezing temperatures, could be constructed with 3 layers of bubble plastic.
Plants radishes beans, radishes, peas, cucumbers) could be successfully grown.
The plastic stood up well to wind (up to 30 knots), cold (-45ºC over winter) and freezing conditions normally general wear and tear.
The greenhouse provided an excellent field laboratory which greatly extended the capacities of the expedition.

Bubble Plastic
The use of polyethylene bubble film for greenhouses followed several years of its successful use as a solar blanket for heating swimming pools. The result from Antarctica come as no surprise, in fact they only confirm other results in greenhouse applications but also their confidence in an already well advanced development programme for the use of a modified ”bubble film” as an insulate in the construction industry. Initial tests indicate that these modifications have increased its insulating capabilities quite considerably. This in turn leads on to its use in the horticultural industry: as a thermal blanket where it could assist significantly in greenhouse environment control.

We are indebted to Airlite Plastics Pty. Ltd. and Mr. Tim Murray, their Australian Manager for providing this story.

From Australian Horticulture Magazine, March 1982
‘Salad on Ice’ – A Bubble Plastic Greenhouse in Antarctica
Allen Green