Identification of simple mass balance models for plant growth - evolving yields and incorporating developmental stages

Abstract

This paper presents a simple mass balance model for plant growth. This basis is in the development of a model intended to enable the prediction and control of a plant production chamber for MELiSSA, a regenerative life support system project developed by the ESA. Photosynthesis and respiration have been selected as key reactions for biomass production. Considering these reactions, the model was developed using a mass balance approach. Reaction kinetics were chosen based on plant physiology and standard biochemical reaction knowledge. The identification and validation of yield and kinetic parameters were performed using data from lettuce and beet experiments in a closed plant chamber. Although the model adequately predicts plant growth, the oxygen prediction can be improved by considering two stages on the basis of the photosynthetic quotient.