JP2015065865A - Plant growth method using plant growth unit - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a plant growth method repeatedly using a plant growth unit which uses a water absorptive tabular structure to be capable of easily and simply growing plants.SOLUTION: A plant growth unit comprises: a container which can store water or hold moisture; and a plurality of absorptive tabular structures which are detachably provided in the container. A plant growth method includes using the plant growth unit in which the tabular structures sandwich a root of a plant body to form a space to continuously grow plants. The tabular structures can be removed from the container to wash and/or sterilize the tabular structures so that the tabular structures are repeatedly used.

Description

  The present invention relates to a plant growing method using a plant growing apparatus capable of growing a plant.

  As a method for cultivating plants on a large scale, cultivation in a field, hydroponics and the like are generally performed. Hydroponics is a growth method commonly used in plant factories, etc., and does not limit the root growth space, but only adds the necessary minerals and nutrients to the water to efficiently produce plants. It is. Hydroponics includes submerged hydroponics in which roots are buried in the culture medium, thin-film hydroponics that grows the roots in the air while the culture medium flows, and floating root hydroponics using a root-proof permeation sheet. is there.

  However, when cultivating in the field, if the same or related crops are continuously cultivated in the soil, it is known that the growth gradually deteriorates, resulting in a continuous cropping failure resulting in a decrease in yield and the occurrence of disease. Continuous cropping disorders are attributed to growth inhibition substances secreted from the roots of plants themselves and physiological disorders due to deterioration of soil physical and chemical properties.

  Thus, various methods for preventing continuous cropping failures have been known so far. For example, there are methods that use agricultural chemicals to sterilize soil pests, cover the soil with a transparent plastic sheet, etc., and sterilize the soil pests by increasing the temperature of the soil by exposing it to sunlight for about two weeks. is there. In addition, in order to harmonize the number of microorganisms inhabiting in the soil, there is a method of applying a large amount of organic matter to the soil or applying useful microorganisms (for example, see Patent Documents 1 and 2).

On the other hand, in hydroponics, bacteria and molds that are the cause of food poisoning are likely to occur. Patent Document 3 describes a method for suppressing the occurrence by adjusting the pH by using water containing pyroligneous acid or minerals in order to suppress these occurrences. In addition, a method of suppressing bacteria and molds that cause food poisoning by circulating water used for hydroponics with a pump, and performing filtration and sterilization with the circulation is also performed.
Furthermore, in hydroponic cultivation, it is described in Patent Document 4 that these bacteria and fungi cause continuous cropping troubles. If you try to change the plant to be grown, all the water is drained and the whole is carefully cleaned. I need.

JP 2001-95382 A JP 2006-219387 A JP 2002-315457 A International Publication No. 2010/098459

In cultivation in the field, it is necessary to supply daily moisture and nutrients, and it is necessary for the grower to fully understand appropriate growth conditions for each plant species to be grown.
Hydroponics is a cultivation method that is generally used in plant factories that efficiently produce plants by adding only necessary minerals and nutrients to water, but plant species that can grow herbaceous plants such as lettuce The cultivation of woody plants is very difficult. Furthermore, in hydroponics, it is not easy to manage nutrients such as water and liquid fertilizer.

In addition, when trying to change the plant to be grown, in the cultivation in the field, it took a very long time to apply sunlight for two weeks, and the method of replacing the whole soil was cumbersome and removed. There are problems such as the need to secure a place for soil.
On the other hand, in hydroponics, the method of filtering with a pump or the like in order to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold that cause continuous cropping troubles costs equipment, and the method of adjusting pH and the like is a skill for water quality management. Experience and knowledge are required. Moreover, the method of draining all the water and cleaning the entire equipment has problems such as complicated work and time.

  Further, there are similar problems in smaller-scale cultivation methods such as flower beds on the road surface, pot plants and planters in the home, other than large-scale cultivation such as cultivation in a field or hydroponics. These small-scale cultivation methods, unlike large-scale cultivation, do not need to grow a large amount of plants, so it is conceivable to change plants to be grown more frequently. Therefore, it is very complicated if work such as soil replacement or sterilization is necessary each time. Furthermore, in the case of such small-scale cultivation, since the appropriate container size differs for each breeding species, it is necessary to change the container together every time the plant species is changed, and lacks versatility.

  The present invention has been proposed in view of such conventional circumstances, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a plant growing method using a plant growing apparatus that can grow plants easily and easily and can be used repeatedly. And

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention has the following configuration.
(1) A container that can store or retain moisture and a plate-like structure having a plurality of water absorption properties that are detachably installed in the container, and a plant body root portion is sandwiched between the plurality of plate-like structures. A plant growing method for continuously growing plants using a plant growing apparatus in which a space is formed, wherein the plate-like structure is removed from the container, and the plate-like structure is washed and / or sterilized. A plant growing method characterized by being repeatedly used.
(2) The plant growing method according to (1), wherein the washing and / or sterilization includes a step of impregnating the plate-like structure with a fermentation broth.
(3) In any one of (1) and (2), the washing and / or sterilization includes a step of washing the plate-like structure with a discharge pressure of 7 MPa or more using a high-pressure washing machine. The plant growing method described.
(4) The cleaning and / or sterilization includes a step of heating the plate-like structure for 30 minutes or more at a temperature of 55 ° C. or higher, according to any one of (1) to (3). Plant growing method.
(5) The washing and / or sterilization includes a step of heating the plate-like structure for 20 minutes or more under a pressure condition of 2 atm or higher and a temperature condition of 120 ° C. or higher (1 The plant growing method described in any one of (3) to (3).
(6) Any one of (1) to (5), wherein the cleaning and / or sterilization includes a step of impregnating the plate-shaped structure with 0.25 ppm or more of ozone water for 15 minutes or more. The plant growing method described in the paragraph.
(7) Any of (1) to (5), wherein the cleaning and / or sterilization includes a step of impregnating the plate-like structure with 0.5 ppm or more of ozone processed water for 1 minute or more. The plant cultivation method described in one term.
(8) The cleaning and / or sterilization includes a step of impregnating the plate-like structure with a solution having a chlorine concentration of 0.1 mg / l or more for 5 minutes or more, according to (1) to (7) The plant cultivation method described in any one of Claims.
(9) The plant growth described in any one of (1) to (8), wherein the washing and / or sterilization includes a step of giving an absorbed dose of 500 Gy or more to the plate-like structure. Method.

  In the plant growing device of the present invention, the plate-like structure having water absorption absorbs water and nutrients, so that a portion with a large amount and a small amount of moisture and nutrients in the plate-like structure is a source of them. It changes in steps depending on the distance from the contacted part. When the plant root is placed so as to be sandwiched between the plate-like structures, the plant itself will extend the root to the part in the plate-like structure having an appropriate water requirement and nutrient requirement for its own growth characteristics. Thus, an appropriate amount of water and nutrients can be automatically supplied to the plant, and plant growth is facilitated.

  Moreover, the space which pinches | interposes a plant body root part can be arbitrarily changed only by changing the distance of arrangement | positioning of a plate-shaped structure. Therefore, it is not necessary to prepare an appropriate container for each plant species to be grown, and plants can be grown very simply. Moreover, the plant growing apparatus of the present invention can grow not only herbaceous plants but also woody plants.

  Furthermore, continuous washing failures can be easily prevented by simply washing and / or washing the plate-like structure, and plants can be easily and simply repeatedly grown.

It is the cross-sectional schematic diagram which represented typically the cross section of the plant growing apparatus of one Embodiment of this invention. In the plant growth apparatus of this invention, it is a schematic diagram at the time of fixing a plate-shaped structure using a fixing tool. (A) is a figure using a bolt and a nut, (b) is a figure using a tag, and (c) is a figure using a string. In the plant growth apparatus of this invention, it is a schematic diagram at the time of fixing a plate-shaped structure using the fixing tool which can be operated. (A) is a schematic diagram of an operable fixture using frictional force, and (b) is a plate-like structure around the fixing point of the fixture using an operable fixture using frictional force. It is a schematic diagram at the time of preventing rotation, and (c) is a schematic diagram of an operable fixture utilizing the engagement of the convex portion and the concave portion. It is a schematic diagram at the time of forming a groove | channel in the container of the plant growing apparatus of this invention, (a) is a case where a groove | channel is formed in the bottom part of a container, (b) is a container, The container is a tubular shape, The upper part It is a schematic diagram at the time of forming a groove | channel. In order to facilitate understanding of the drawing, the plate-like structure is inserted only in one place of the groove. In the plant growth apparatus of this invention, it is a schematic diagram at the time of fixing a plate-shaped structure using a supporting member. In addition, in order to make an understanding easy, the schematic diagram when the support member is removed from the container and when the support member is installed in the container is shown. It is the cross-sectional schematic diagram which represented typically the cross section of the plant growing apparatus which has the mantle of one Embodiment of this invention. It is the cross-sectional schematic diagram which represented typically the 1st plant growing method using the plant growing apparatus of this invention. It is the figure which investigated the moisture content change of the water by the distance from the contact surface with the water of a plate-shaped structure. It is the cross-sectional schematic diagram which represented typically the 1st plant growing method using the plant growing apparatus of this invention, and shows the schematic diagram which surrounded the plant body root part with the cloth etc. with the crushing grain. It is the cross-sectional schematic diagram which represented typically the 1st plant growth method using the plant growth apparatus of this invention, enclosed the plant-body root part with cloth etc., and also used the stand for installing a plant. A schematic diagram is shown.

Hereinafter, a growing method using the plant growing apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
In addition, in the drawings used in the following description, in order to make the features easy to understand, there are cases where the portions that become the features are enlarged for convenience, and the dimensional ratios of the respective components are not always the same as the actual ones. . In addition, the materials, dimensions, and the like exemplified in the following description are examples, and the present invention is not limited to them, and can be appropriately changed and implemented without changing the gist thereof.

The present invention comprises a container that can store or retain moisture, and a plurality of plate-like structures that are detachably installed in the container and that have a plurality of water absorption properties. A plant growing method for continuously growing a plant using a plant growing device in which a sandwiching space is formed, wherein the plate structure is removed from the container, and the plate structure is washed and / or sterilized. It is invention about the plant cultivation method characterized by using repeatedly.
First, a description will be given of a plant growing apparatus in which a container capable of storing or retaining moisture, a plate-like structure having water absorption, and a space sandwiching a plant root are formed.

The structure of the plant growing apparatus 10 of one Embodiment of this invention is demonstrated using FIG. FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a cross section of a plant growing device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The plant growing device 10 includes a container 1 that can store or retain moisture, and a plurality of plate-like structures 2, and the plate-like structure 2 has water absorption, and by these plurality of plate-like structures 2, A space 3 sandwiching the root of the plant body is formed.
In addition, “pinch the plant root” means that the plant root is disposed between the plurality of plate-like structures, and the plant root may be fixed by being sandwiched between the plate-like structures. And when a plant is installed, there may be a space between the plate-like structure and the plant body root.
In FIG. 1, two plate-like structures 2 are illustrated, but the number is not limited.

The plate-like structure 2 is not particularly limited as long as it has a water-absorbing structure. For example, a ceramic, unglazed roof tile, water-absorbing polymer, a plate covered with a cloth, or the like can be given. Among these, it is preferable to use a porous ceramic sintered body. The porous ceramic sintered body has a very good water absorbability and has a very high ability to absorb water vertically compared to a general absorbent member.
Hereinafter, a more specific preferable example of the porous ceramic sintered body will be described.

<Porous ceramic sintered body>
The porous ceramic sintered body of the present invention has at least millimeter-order holes. The porous ceramic sintered body may have micrometer-order holes and nanometer-order holes in addition to millimeter-order holes.
The millimeter-order hole preferably has a horizontally long shape. The term “laterally long shape” refers to a shape which is clearly long with respect to a diameter where the longest diameter is perpendicular to the diameter among various diameters. For example, the longest diameter is 1 with respect to the diameter perpendicular to the longest diameter. A shape having 5 times or more. When the millimeter-order hole has a horizontally long shape, the porous ceramic sintered body is a surface in contact with water when the horizontally long long axis grows a plant among the holes having the horizontally long shape. On the other hand, it is preferable to arrange so that the number of holes oriented in the direction close to the vertical increases. The “perpendicular direction” is preferably such that the horizontally long major axis is within a range of ± 45 ° from the direction perpendicular to the contact surface with water. Of the holes having a horizontally long shape, those having a horizontally long major axis within a range of ± 45 ° from the direction perpendicular to the contact surface with water are preferably ½ or more. Such an arrangement can be made visually. By arranging the long axis of the hole having the horizontally long shape in a direction nearly perpendicular to the contact surface with water, the direction close to perpendicular to the contact surface with water along the long axis direction of the hole Since the water is sucked up toward the water, the ability to suck up the water can be demonstrated more highly.
A millimeter-order hole is a hole having a hole diameter of more than 1 mm and not more than 1000 mm. The hole diameter of the millimeter order hole is preferably more than 1 mm and not more than 100 mm.
A micrometer-order hole is a hole having a hole diameter of more than 1 μm and not more than 1000 μm.
The porous ceramic sintered body is preferably formed with nanometer-order pores having a pore diameter of 1 to 1000 nm. Furthermore, the water retention of the porous ceramic sintered body can be further enhanced by the formation of nanometer-order holes.
The hole diameter is adjusted by combining the composition of the raw materials and the firing conditions.
In addition, the hole diameter of a hole refers to the long diameter of a hole. The hole diameter in the order of millimeters is a plane perpendicular to the plane that contacts the water when growing the plate-shaped porous ceramics sintered body, and is fired when the plate-shaped structure is formed. This is a value obtained by measuring the hole diameter of the major axis with a scale in a cross section cut along a plane perpendicular to the plane. The hole diameters of the nanometer-order and micrometer-order holes are values obtained by measuring the hole diameter of the opening formed in the cross section with an electron microscope.

  In the porous ceramic sintered body, it is preferable that at least some of the holes communicate with each other. The communicating holes may be millimeter-order holes, micrometer-order holes, or millimeter-order holes and micrometer-order holes. Moreover, when it has a nanometer order hole, you may communicate with each of the nanometer order hole and each of the millimeter order hole and the micrometer order hole. Since the holes communicate with each other, the porous ceramic sintered body is in a state in which water is more easily sucked up.

The porous ceramic sintered body preferably has pores formed therein and a saturated moisture content of 20% or more.
Here, the saturated moisture content is measured by measuring the mass (saturated moisture content mass) immediately after immersing the sample in water for 60 minutes, taking it out of the water, and bringing it into contact with the fabric to the extent that water droplets on the surface are removed. 1) It is calculated | required by Formula.
Saturated moisture content (mass%) = [(saturated moisture content mass−absolute dry mass) / absolute dry mass] × 100 (1)
When the saturated moisture content of the porous ceramic sintered body is less than 20%, water retention may be reduced, and plant growth may be impaired.
Further, the saturated moisture content of the porous ceramic sintered body is more preferably 30% or more, and further preferably 40% or more. The higher the upper limit, the better. However, if it is too high, the strength may be insufficient, and therefore it is preferably 100% or less.

The porous ceramic sintered body is a porous ceramic sintered body (hereinafter referred to as “sintered body A”) obtained by molding and sintering a mixture containing a foaming agent, clays, and organic sludge. preferable. In the sintered body A, communication holes (holes in which a plurality of the above-mentioned holes communicate with each other) are easily formed, the water retention becomes higher, and the water permeability / breathability is improved and the plant growth is higher. Become.
When the porous ceramic sintered body is the sintered body A, the communication hole may be a hole in which the holes derived from the foaming agent communicate with each other or a hole in which the holes derived from the organic sludge communicate with each other. However, the hole derived from the foaming agent and the hole derived from the organic sludge may be a hole communicating with each other. Among these, since water retention, water permeability, and air permeability are higher and plant growth is further improved, the pores derived from the foaming agent and the pores derived from the organic sludge are in communication with each other. Is preferred. That is, it is preferable that a first hole formed by foaming the foaming agent at the time of firing and a second hole formed by reducing the amount of the organic sludge at the time of firing are formed and these holes communicate with each other. . Since the holes communicate with each other, the porous ceramic sintered body is in a state in which water is more easily sucked up.
The first hole is mainly a millimeter order hole, and the second hole is mainly a micrometer order or less (nanometer order) hole.

  The volume ratio of the pores in the porous ceramic sintered body is not particularly limited, but the porosity represented by (pore volume) / (volume of the porous ceramic sintered body) is preferably 90% by volume or less, more preferably Is 40 to 80% by volume, still more preferably 60 to 70% by volume. If the porosity is within the above range, the strength of the porous ceramic sintered body can be maintained and the functions required of the porous ceramic sintered body can be sufficiently imparted.

The bulk specific gravity of the porous ceramic sintered body is preferably 0.4 to 1.3 g / cm ³ , more preferably 0.4 to 1.0 g / cm ³ , and even more preferably 0.55 to 0.85 g / cm ³ . Here, the bulk specific gravity is obtained from [mass of porous ceramic sintered body (g)] / [volume of porous ceramic sintered body (cm ³ )].
If bulk specific gravity is in the said range, while the intensity | strength of a porous ceramic sintered compact is maintained, the function calculated | required by a porous ceramic sintered compact can fully be provided. In addition, it can be estimated that the porous ceramic sintered body has more holes as the bulk specific gravity is lower.

The amount of water having a pF value of 2.7 or less in the porous ceramic sintered body is preferably 20% by mass or more, more preferably 40% by mass or more, still more preferably 50% by mass or more, and even more preferably 60% by mass or more. It is. Water with a pF value of 2.7 or less can be used for plant growth, and if the water content with a pF value of 2.7 or less is less than 20% by mass, it is not suitable for plant growth or water is frequently used. There may be a need for whispering. The “pF value” is a value representing the degree of strength that water in the soil is attracted by the capillary force of the soil.
The amount of water having a pF value of 2.7 or less is measured by the following method.
First, a sample in which the porous ceramic sintered body is saturated and hydrated is prepared, and the sample is centrifuged at 650 rpm for 30 minutes using a centrifuge. At this time, water separated from the sample is water having a pF value of 1.5 or less.
Further, the sample is centrifuged at 1540 rpm for 30 minutes using a centrifuge. At this time, water separated from the sample is water having a pF value of more than 1.5 and not more than 2.7.
And, [(amount of water with a pF value of 1.5 or less + amount of water with a pF value of more than 1.5 or less than 2.7) / (amount of water necessary to bring the saturated water content)] × 100%, The amount of water having a pF value of 2.7 or less in the porous ceramic sintered body is determined.

  The sintered body A may be used in order to obtain the saturated moisture content, the volume ratio of the pores, the bulk specific gravity, and the water content having a pF value of 2.7 or less. However, it is necessary to appropriately adjust the blending ratio according to the type of foaming agent, clays and organic sludge used.

<Foaming agent>
When the porous ceramic sintered body is the sintered body A, the foaming agent foams when fired. For example, a known foaming agent for ceramics such as calcium carbonate, silicon carbide, magnesium carbonate, and slag is used. Can be used. Of these foaming agents, slag is preferred.
The slag is not particularly limited. For example, it is generated when blast furnace slag generated during metal refining, municipal waste melting slag generated when melting municipal waste, sewage sludge melting slag generated when sewage sludge is melted, cast iron such as ductile cast iron, etc. Examples thereof include glassy slag such as cast iron slag. Among these, cast iron slag is more preferable. Since cast iron slag has a stable composition, a stable foaming state is obtained, and the foaming rate is about 1.5 to 2 times that of other slags. By using this, a large hole on the order of millimeters can be formed. Can be formed.
The cast iron slag contains components such as SiO ₂ , Al ₂ O ₃ , CaO, Fe ₂ O ₃ , FeO, MgO, MnO, K ₂ O, Na ₂ O, and the obtained porous ceramic fired body is a base. It has excellent acid substance removability even if it does not carry a functional substance.

  The amount of slag in the blend can be determined in consideration of the moldability of the mixture, for example, preferably 80% by weight or less, more preferably 20 to 75% by weight, and even more preferably 30 to 65% by weight. . Within the above range, the moldability of the mixture can be smoothly and smoothly formed, and the apparent density and porosity (saturated water content) of the porous ceramic fired body can be adjusted to a suitable range.

<Clays>
Clays are mineral materials that exhibit clay-like properties that are generally used as ceramic raw materials.
Specifically, the clay can be a known one used for ceramic sintered bodies and is composed of a mineral composition such as quartz, feldspar, clay, etc., but the constituent mineral is mainly kaolinite, Those containing halloysite, montmorillonite, illite, bentonite and pyrophyllite are preferred. Among them, those containing quartz coarse particles having a particle diameter of 500 μm or more are more preferable from the viewpoint of suppressing the progress of cracks during sintering and preventing destruction of the porous ceramic sintered body. Examples of such clays include cocoon clay. The clays are blended alone or in combination of two or more.

<Organic sludge>
Organic sludge is sludge containing an organic substance as a main component. Although it does not restrict | limit especially as organic sludge, The activated sludge derived from waste water treatments, such as a sewage and a factory, is preferable. The activated sludge is obtained by being discharged from a wastewater treatment facility using the activated sludge method through a coagulation / dehydration process. By using such organic sludge, a desired hole can be easily formed. Furthermore, activated sludge derived from wastewater treatment, which has been positioned as waste, can be recycled as a raw material. By using such organic sludge, micrometer-order holes can be efficiently formed, and nanometer-order holes can be formed. By forming pores in the order of nanometers, the apparent density of the porous ceramic fired body can be reduced, the porosity (saturated water content) can be further increased, and the chance of contact with water can be increased. Furthermore, activated sludge derived from wastewater treatment, which has been positioned as waste, can be used as a raw material.

  The water content of the organic sludge is preferably 5 to 90% by mass, more preferably 60 to 90% by mass, and even more preferably 65 to 85% by mass. If it is in the said range, while being able to obtain a homogeneous mixture by the below-mentioned mixing process, favorable moldability can be maintained also in continuous molding.

  The content of the organic matter in the organic sludge is not particularly limited. For example, the content (organic matter content) of the organic matter in the solid content of the organic sludge is preferably 70% by mass or more, and more preferably 80% by mass or more. The larger the organic content, the easier the pore formation. In addition, organic substance content is a value calculated | required by the following (2) formula, measuring ash content (mass%) at the carbonization temperature of 700 degreeC according to JISM8812-1993 for the sludge after drying.

  Organic content (mass%) = 100 (mass%) − ash (mass%) (2)

  The average particle diameter of the organic sludge is preferably 1 to 5 μm, more preferably 1 to 3 μm. Organic sludge is burned off by firing and forms pores there, so that the smaller the average particle diameter, the easier it is to form micrometer-order holes and nanometer-order holes. The average particle diameter is a volume-based median diameter (50% volume diameter) measured by a particle size distribution measuring device (LA-920, manufactured by Horiba, Ltd.).

<Optional component>
Arbitrary components may be blended with the sintered body A as long as the object of the present invention is not impaired. Examples of optional components include naphthalene-based fluidizing agents such as Mighty 2000WH (trade name, manufactured by Kao Corporation), melamine-based fluidizing agents such as Melment F-10 (trade name, manufactured by Showa Denko KK), and the like. Polycarboxylic acid-based fluidizing agents such as Darex Super 100pH (trade name, manufactured by Grace Chemicals Co., Ltd.); antibacterial agents such as silver, copper and zinc; adsorbents such as zeolite and apatite, activated carbon fibers, metallic aluminum Etc.
Moreover, when a bad odor arises from organic sludge, it is good to mix | blend a deodorizer. Specific examples of the deodorant include ammonium chloride and zinc chloride. When such a deodorant is used, it is possible to neutralize and deodorize odorous components such as hydrogen sulfide.
The blending amount of the optional component may be added in consideration of the intended effect of the optional component addition within a range not departing from the object of the present invention. For example, when ammonium chloride or zinc chloride is used as a deodorant, it is preferably 0.05 to 5% by mass with respect to the organic sludge, and preferably 0.005 to 1% by mass in the entire mixture.

<Diatomaceous earth>
The sintered body A may contain diatomaceous earth as necessary.
Diatomaceous earth is a deposit made of diatom remains and is porous with pores on the order of micrometers.
Diatomaceous earth is not particularly limited, and those conventionally used for fireproof bricks, filter media and the like can be used. For example, it is not necessary to separate and refine clay minerals (montmorillonite, etc.), quartz, feldspar, etc. that are confined, and the amount of the mixture can be adjusted after recognizing these contents.
The moisture content of diatomaceous earth is not particularly limited, and for example, the moisture content in a naturally dried state is preferably 20 to 60 mass%, more preferably 30 to 50 mass%, and further preferably 35 to 45 mass%. If it is within the above range, it is because a mixture with good moldability can be obtained by removing the coarse particles in the narrow material during mixing while recognizing the moisture content.
In addition, a moisture content is the value calculated | required by the following (3) formula, drying a sample (200 degreeC, 12 minutes) using the infrared moisture meter of the following specification which is a drying weight loss method.

Measurement method: Loss on drying method (heat drying / mass measurement method)
Minimum display: water content; 0.1% by mass
Measurement range: water content; 0.0 to 100% by mass
Drying temperature: 0-200 ° C
Measurement accuracy: Sample weight 5g or more, moisture content ± 0.1% by mass
Heat source: infrared lamp; 185W

Moisture content (mass%) = [(m ₁ -m ₂ ) / (m ₁ -m ₀ )] × 100 (3)
m ₁ : Total mass (g) of the weight of the container before drying and the weight of the sample before drying
m ₂ : Total mass (g) of the weight of the container after drying and the weight of the sample after drying
m ₀ : Mass of the container after drying (g)

<Inorganic particles and fibers>
In order to improve the strength of the porous ceramic sintered body, particularly the bending strength, it is preferable to blend inorganic particles / fibers, fly ash, and clinker ash in the mixture. The inorganic particles / fibers are preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of high-melting glass particles, carbon fibers, basalt fibers, and rock wool, and high-melting glass particles are particularly preferable from the viewpoint of improving strength.

[High melting point glass particles]
The high melting point glass has a melting temperature of 900 ° C. or higher, preferably a melting temperature of 1000 ° C. or higher, more preferably a melting temperature of 1200 ° C. or higher. If the melting temperature is equal to or higher than the lower limit value, the high-melting glass particles are partially melted in the firing step described later, and can be fused together with the high-melting glass particles or function as a clay binder. In addition, the higher the melting temperature, the higher the strength of the porous ceramic sintered body. Further, the melting temperature of the high melting point glass is preferably 1800 ° C. or less, and more preferably 1600 ° C. or less. If it exceeds the upper limit, the high melting point glass particles are difficult to melt when sintered, and the strength of the porous ceramic sintered body may not be sufficiently improved.

The material of the high melting point glass is not particularly limited, but alkali-free glass, aluminosilicate glass, borosilicate glass, and quartz glass are preferable, and borosilicate glass is particularly preferable.
With such a material, the strength of the porous ceramic sintered body can be sufficiently improved.

The alkali-free glass is a glass that does not substantially contain an alkali metal element such as sodium, potassium, or lithium. “Substantially not contained” means that the content of the alkali metal element in the glass composition is 0.1% by mass or less in terms of oxide.
Aluminosilicate glass is an oxide glass mainly composed of aluminum and silicon.
Borosilicate glass is an oxide glass mainly composed of boron and silicon.
Quartz glass is glass made from quartz and has a high purity of silicon oxide.
Examples of commercially available high melting point glass include AN100 (trade name, non-alkali borosilicate glass, manufactured by Asahi Glass Co., Ltd.).

The high melting point glass is, for example, a liquid crystal display such as a liquid crystal television, a panel such as a plasma display, a cover glass for EL, a cover glass for a solid-state image sensor represented by a CCD, a glass for an optical filter such as a hand pass filter, Used in various products such as glass for glass substrates, flasks and beakers for on-glass use.
Therefore, the particles of the high melting point glass can be obtained from the waste glass discharged in the manufacturing process of the above products, the panel recovered from the discarded liquid crystal television or the like.
Particularly, flat display panels such as liquid crystal televisions generate a large amount of waste glass when the flat display is manufactured as the size of the panel increases. Waste can be reduced by making the waste glass of the flat display panel into particles of high melting point glass. For this reason, it is preferable to use the waste glass of the panel for flat displays as a high melting glass particle from a viewpoint of reducing environmental load. In addition, the waste glass of the flat display panel can be used as a high-melting glass having a stable quality without special purification because the purity of the glass composition is high.

The particle diameter of the high melting point glass particles is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.1 to 5 mm. If the particle diameter is less than 0.1 mm, the formation of pores in the porous ceramic fired body may be insufficient. If the formation of the holes is insufficient, the removal performance of unnecessary substances contained in the gas and the durability of the porous ceramic fired body may be deteriorated.
If the particle diameter is more than 5 mm, moldability may be deteriorated, or the metal fitting at the extrusion port may be damaged during molding.
The particle diameter of the high melting point glass is more preferably more than 0.6 mm and not more than 1.2 mm from the viewpoint of productivity of the porous ceramic sintered body and further improvement of strength.
The particle diameter of the high melting point glass is a value measured by sieving.

[Carbon fiber]
Various carbon fibers such as polyacrylonitrile (PAN), pitch, rayon, and cellulose can be used as the carbon fiber.
The length of the carbon fiber is preferably 1 mm to 10 cm, and more preferably 5 to 25 mm. If it is less than the lower limit, the strength may be insufficient, and if it exceeds the upper limit, productivity may be impaired or the appearance of the greening material may be impaired.
The thickness of the carbon fiber is preferably 1 to 1000 μm, and more preferably 5 to 100 μm. If it is less than the lower limit, the strength of the porous ceramic sintered body may be insufficient, and if it exceeds the upper limit, productivity may be impaired or the appearance of the greening material may be impaired. There is.

[Basalt fiber]
Basalt fiber is a fiber manufactured by melting and spinning naturally occurring basalt (basalt).
The length of the basalt fiber is preferably 1 mm to 10 cm, and more preferably 5 to 25 mm.
If it is less than the lower limit, the strength may be insufficient, and if it exceeds the upper limit, productivity may be impaired or the appearance may be impaired.
The thickness of the basalt fiber is preferably 1 to 1000 μm, and more preferably 5 to 100 μm. If it is less than the lower limit, the strength may be insufficient, and if it exceeds the upper limit, productivity may be impaired or the appearance may be impaired. The same applies to carbon fibers, but it is preferable from the viewpoint of improving strength to use a fiber bundle in which about 1000 to 100,000 of these fibers are bundled.

[Rock wool]
Rock wool is a man-made mineral fiber produced by mixing lime, etc., with basalt, iron slag, etc., melting at high temperature and spinning.
The length of the rock wool is preferably 1 mm to 10 cm, and more preferably 5 to 25 mm.
If it is less than the lower limit, the strength may be insufficient, and if it exceeds the upper limit, productivity may be impaired or the appearance may be impaired.
1-100 micrometers is preferable and, as for the thickness of rock wool, 3-30 micrometers is more preferable. If it is less than the lower limit, the strength may be insufficient, and if it exceeds the upper limit, productivity may be impaired or the appearance may be impaired.

[Fly ash]
Fly ash is ash produced when coal is burned in a thermal power plant or the like, and is a particle having a size enough to be blown up together with combustion gas. As fly ash, those specified in JIS A6201 as fly ash for concrete are preferable from the viewpoint of quality stability, and any of the types I, II, III, and IV specified in JIS A6201 may be used.

[Clinker ash]
Clinker ash is ash that is collected from dehydrated and crushed limestone that has fallen to the bottom of the boiler among the limestone that is generated when coal is burned at a thermal power plant or the like.

  There are no particular restrictions on the shape of these plate-like structures 2. The shape of the plate when viewed from the front is not limited to a rectangle, but may be a circle or a triangle. However, in order for the plate-like structure 2 to be stably held in the container 1 without using a fixture, at least the shape of the lower surface of the plate-like structure has a shape corresponding to the bottom surface of the container 1. It is preferable. That is, when the container 1 has a bottom surface parallel to the ground, it is preferable that the lower surface of the plate-like structure also has a surface parallel to the ground. Further, when the plate-like structure 2 has a shape and size in contact with the inner surface of the container 1, the plate-like structure 2 is preferably supported by the inner surface of the container 1. That is, when the container 1 is tubular and has a bottom surface on an arc, it is preferable that the lower surface of the plate-like structure portion 2 also has an arc shape.

  The plate-like structure 2 is preferably fixed by a fixing tool. For example, as shown in FIG. 2 (a), a plurality of plate-like structures 2 may be fixed at predetermined intervals using bolts and nuts, or a tag (FIG. 2 (b)) or string (FIG. 2 (c)). ) Around the periphery, the plurality of plate-like structures 2 may be fixed at a predetermined interval. Moreover, you may adhere | attach using an adhesive agent etc. By fixing the plate-like structure 2, the stability is increased, and it is possible to prevent the plant from falling easily together with the plate-like structure 2 due to wind or physical force.

Moreover, it is preferable that the fixture which fixes the plate-shaped structure 2 is operable. When the plant grows, the volume of the root of the plant body becomes large, and it cannot fit in the space sandwiching the root of the plant body at the beginning of cultivation. When the plate-like structures are completely fixed without a movable range by the fixture, there may be a problem that the plate-like structures are broken by the root pressure due to the growth of the plant. However, if the fixture can be operated in accordance with the growth of the plant, the space for sandwiching the root of the plant body is expanded in accordance with the root pressure, so that such a problem can be suppressed.
An example in which the fixing tool to be fixed is operable is shown below. For example, as shown in FIG. 3A, it is conceivable to fix the bar with a fastener. The principle that the fixture can be operated using the rod and the fastener is that the fastener is fixed by a frictional force applied to the rod. As the plant grows, the root pressure increases, and when the root pressure exceeds the frictional force, the fasteners are moved to the left and right to spread, and the plate-like structure 2 is also moved accordingly. Moreover, although Fig.3 (a) is fixed with two fixing tools, you may fix with two or more multiple pieces like FIG.3 (b). For example, as shown in FIG. 3B, when three fixing tools are arranged in a triangle, there is a problem in that the plate-like structure rotates around the fixing point of the fixing tool and the fastener does not work well. Can be avoided. In addition, as shown in FIG. 3C, a slidable tag may be used. As the slidable tag, for example, a large number of convex portions and concave portions are formed, and a configuration that can be fixed by engaging each other is conceivable. As the root pressure increases, the biting points change and the length of the tag increases, and the plate-like structure operates accordingly.
Moreover, when using a string etc., it can be enabled by making a string into an elastic body. By using these operable fixtures, the problem that the plate-like structure 2 is broken by the root pressure can be suppressed. Even when fixing with an adhesive or the like, the adhesive force may be peeled off by setting an adhesive force to be bonded when a root pressure exceeding a certain value is applied.

Moreover, when using many plate-shaped structures 2, it is preferable that several plate-shaped structures are connected by the skewered member. Furthermore, it is preferable that this skewer-like member is fixed to the container 1. When a plurality of plate-like members are connected by one skewer-like member, disassembly and assembly can be performed simply by piercing and inserting the skewer-like member, and workability becomes very good. In particular, when manufacturing a plant growing apparatus that enables large-scale cultivation, it is necessary to fix a large number of plate-like structures, which is very advantageous from the viewpoint of improving work efficiency.
Note that the skewer member only needs to be able to connect plate-like structures, and the shape material is not particularly limited. For example, a pipe, a wooden stick, carbon fiber, a carbon fiber (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic: CFRP) rod in which carbon fibers are integrated with a resin, and the like can be given. Since the CFRP rod is lightweight, the weight load of the entire apparatus can be reduced, and it has the advantages that it is difficult to rust, has high strength, and is easy to handle.
The term “plurality” as used herein includes not only connecting two or three plate-like structures but also connecting more than that number. The larger the number of the plate-like structures 2 is, the more work load is required for installation and removal.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the plate-like structure 2 may be fixed by forming a groove in the container 1 itself and inserting the plate-like structure 2 into the groove. If the groove portion is formed in the container 1 itself, it is not necessary to separately prepare a member for fixing, and the plate-like structure 2 can be simply fixed simply by inserting the plate-like structure 2 into the groove portion.
FIG. 4A shows the case where the groove 4 is formed at the bottom of the container. In FIG. 4A, the groove portion 4 has a depth equal to or less than the thickness of the bottom surface of the container 1, but the depth of the groove portion 4 is equal to or greater than the thickness of the bottom surface of the container 1, and the portion forming the groove portion 4 of the container is removed from the container. The structure which protrudes may be sufficient. FIG. 4B is a schematic view when the container is tubular and the groove 4 is formed in the upper part thereof.
In addition, in order to make an understanding of a figure easy, the plate-shaped structure 2 is inserted only in one place of the groove part 4, However, The quantity which inserts the plate-shaped structure 2 can be set arbitrarily. Moreover, the groove part 4 in the container 1 shown in FIG. 4 is an example to the last, and this invention is not limited to this. In addition, you may have the groove part 4 in the side surface of a container, for example.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 5, you may further provide the supporting member 5 which supports the plate-shaped structure 2. As shown in FIG. Plants are grown above this support member.
In the example shown in FIG. 5, the support member 5 has a hole into which the plate-like structure 2 is inserted, and is configured to be placed on the container in a lid shape. The structure which arrange | positions the same support member 5 in a container may be sufficient, and the structure which mounts the support member 5 in the bottom of a container may be sufficient in this case, and the structure where the support member 5 stays in the inner wall of a container may be sufficient. In the case where the support member 5 is configured to remain on the inner wall of the container, for example, the support member 5 may be fixed to the inner wall of the container using a fixing tool, and the inner diameter of the container increases from the bottom upward. The inner wall may be configured to be inclined with respect to the vertical, and the support member may be fitted to the inner wall of the container. FIG. 5 shows a schematic view when the support member 5 is removed from the container 1 and when the support member 5 is installed on the container 1 in order to facilitate understanding of the drawing.
Moreover, the fixing method of the plate-shaped structure 2 to the supporting member 5 is not restricted to the insertion method. For example, like the groove part formed in the container of FIG. 4, a groove part may be formed in a plate-like support member, and a plate-like structure may be inserted into the groove part, or a support member having a slidable partition plate is used. The plate-like structure may be fixed by being sandwiched between partition plates.
Even when such a support member is used, when a large number of plate-like structures 2 are used, by removing the support member, the plate-like structure can be disassembled and assembled at a time, thereby improving workability. Can do. In particular, when performing large-scale cultivation, it is necessary to fix a large amount of plate-like structures, which is beneficial from the viewpoint of improving work efficiency.

  Moreover, it is preferable to use the above-mentioned porous ceramic sintered body as the material of the support member 5. The porous ceramic sintered body is excellent in water absorption, water retention, and fertilizer retention. By using a porous ceramic sintered body as the material of the support member 5, supply of water, liquid fertilizer, and the like to the root of the plant body Can help. Moreover, since it is excellent also in heat insulation, a plant can be protected from a rapid temperature change.

Further, since the plurality of plate-like structures 2 are independent from each other, the arrangement interval can be freely changed. By freely changing the interval between the plate-like structures 2, the space 3 sandwiching the plant body root can be made suitable for each plant species, and various plant species can be grown. That is, there is no need to change the container for each plant type as in a conventional flowerpot or the like.
As a method for changing the arrangement interval of the plate-like structures, for example, when using a container having a groove portion as shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of groove portions are formed and the interval for inserting the plate-like structure is changed (groove portion). In other words, the plate-like structure is inserted only into the groove portion that matches the required interval without inserting the plate-like structure into all of the above. When using a support member as shown in FIG. 5, use a support member having a large number of holes as in the case of forming a groove in the container, or using a support member having a slidable partition plate, etc. Is mentioned. In either case, the same plate-like structure and the same container can be used. Although it is necessary to replace the container and the support member, it is naturally possible to use a container having a different groove arrangement interval or a support member having a different hole arrangement interval.

The container 1 is not particularly limited as long as it does not leak water. For example, a commonly used plastic container can be used.
The shape of the container is not particularly limited, and may be a rectangular parallelepiped shape generally used in a planter or the like, or may be a tubular container such as a U-shaped tube.
The container 1 preferably has a water inlet and a water outlet. By providing a water inlet and a water outlet, the replacement of water becomes easy. Furthermore, it is preferable that the position of the water inlet is made higher than the position of the water outlet, and a flow path for water to flow from the water inlet to the water outlet is formed.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 6, it is preferable to have the mantle 6 so that a part of opening part of the container 1 may be covered. By having the mantle 6, it is possible to suppress moisture from evaporating from the container and to reduce the frequency of water supply. Moreover, since the inside of the apparatus can be covered by covering the jacket, and the appearance can be changed by freely changing the jacket, the interior can be matched to the surrounding environment.
The outer jacket 6 only needs to cover the opening of the container 1 and have a space in which plants grow, and is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. For example, a mantle that covers the plate-like structure 2 from the side surface of the container 1 may be used.

(Plant growing method using plant growing device)
Next, a first plant growing method using the plant growing apparatus 10 will be described. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a first plant growing method using the plant growing apparatus.
In the plant growing method using the plant growing apparatus 10 of the present invention, water 7 is stored in the container 1, the plant root 8 is sandwiched between the plurality of plate-like structures 2, and the plate-like structure 2 is A part is brought into contact with water 7. In addition, the water 7 does not need to consist only of water, and may contain nutrients, such as liquid fertilizer.

Moreover, sandwiching the plant body root portion 8 between the plate-like structures 2 may be fixed by sandwiching the plant body root portion 8 with a plurality of plate-like structures 2, or the plate-like structure 2 when the plant is installed. A space may be provided between the plant root portion 8 and the plant body root portion 8. If there is a space between the plant root 8 and the plate-like structure 2 when the plant is installed, the roots are not settled on the plate-like structure 2 immediately after the plant is installed. 9 is preferably used. The base 9 can be removed after the roots are settled on the plate-like structure.
The material of the base 9 is not particularly limited. For example, the material of the same quality as the plate-like structure 2, the plate-like structure covered with a cloth, a bag-like material (net, cloth, drawstring bag, socks) Etc.), or a bag having a water retentive granular material such as a crushed grain of a plate-like structure in the bag. If these are used as the base 9, the base 9 also sucks up water, so that water can be supplied to the plant also from the base 9.

When a part of the plate-like structure 2 is brought into contact with the water 7, the plate-like structure 2 has water absorption, so that water is sucked upward from the contact point with the water 7. Therefore, as the plate-like structure 2 is separated from the portion in contact with the water 7, the moisture content changes stepwise (when liquid fertilizer is included, the nutrient amount also changes stepwise).
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a change in the moisture content of the plate-like structure according to the distance from the contact surface of the plate-like structure 2 with the water 7. The sintered body A is used as the plate-like structure 2, and the change in the moisture content of the plate-like structure was specifically measured by measuring the temperature of the plate-like structure using thermography. . When a large amount of water is absorbed, the temperature becomes low, so the moisture content of the plate-like structure can be confirmed by measuring the temperature.

  Further, instead of the water 7, a water supply member may be used. The water supply member is made of a material capable of retaining water, and for example, a cloth or a sponge can be used. Further, all of the water supply members may be arranged inside the container, or a part thereof may be exposed to the outside. When a part of the water supply member is exposed to the outside, if the part is in contact with water, the water guides the inside of the supply member and is supplied to the contact portion with the plate-like structure. That is, by preparing a water storage tank or the like outside and bringing the water into contact with a part of the supply member, water is always supplied to the supply member, and drying of the supply member is considered. There is no need.

Next, the plant root 8 is sandwiched between the plate-like structures 2. The plant body root portion 8 is determined by the plant itself as a portion of the plate-like structure 2 having a different amount of water in stages, which is a moisture amount, a nutrient amount and an air supply amount corresponding to its own growth characteristics. Automatically grow roots. Water can be supplied to the plant by the roots being settled on the plate-like structure 2. By this method, it is not necessary to supply water frequently, and appropriate water can be supplied to the plant by a very simple method of keeping a part of the plate-like structure 2 in contact with water. In addition, because the plant itself selects the amount of water necessary for growth, it is not necessary to change the growth method for each plant species, and the grower does not need to strictly control the amount of water and nutrients, and it is easy to grow Can do.
For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the plant root 8 is preferably wrapped with a net or cloth. Furthermore, it is preferable that the net | root, cloth, etc. which wrap this plant body root part 8 contain the granular material which has the crushed grain of a plate-shaped structure, and other water retention property with the plant body root part 8. FIG. By enclosing the plant roots, the plant roots can be easily sandwiched between the plate-like structures 2, and crushed grains of the plate-like structures and other granular materials having water retention properties are contained at the same time. Can be made faster.
Further, as shown in FIG. 10, a stand 9 for installing plants until the above-described roots are settled on the plate-like structure can be used in combination. By installing the base 9, the number of places where roots can be settled increases with the plate-like structure 2, the base 9, the granular material included in the net or the like that wraps the root of the plant body, etc. it can. In FIG. 10, a case where the same member as the plate-like structure 2 is used for the base 9 is illustrated. As described above, by using the same member as the plate-like structure 2 for the base 9, water can be supplied also from the base 9, and plant growth can be aided. These plate-like structures 2 and the base 9 can be fixed at a time with one fixing tool as shown in FIG.

  In addition, when the grower fully understands the growing conditions of the plant, by sandwiching the plant body root portion 8 at the position of the plate-like structure 2 having an appropriate amount of water for each plant to be grown, An environment that is more likely to grow for plants can be easily prepared. Moreover, since the plant growing apparatus of this invention has a moisture content etc. which change with the positions of a plate-shaped member, it can provide the environment for growing several plants with one plant growing apparatus. Therefore, various plant species can be cultivated only by changing the place where the root of the plant body root part 8 is settled.

  By using these first and second growing methods, it is possible to grow woody plants such as evergreen trees such as eucalyptus and deciduous trees such as blueberries and raspberries that could not be grown by conventional hydroponics.

(Repeated use of plant growing equipment)
Next, a method for repeatedly using the plant growing apparatus in the plant growing method using the plant growing apparatus 10 will be described.
Repeated use means that the plate-like structure 2 is removed from the container 1, and the plate-like structure 2 is washed and / or sterilized and used repeatedly.

  First, in order to replace the plant to be nurtured, the plant root 8 that has been cultivated is peeled off from the plate-like structure 2. The peeling method is not particularly limited, but it is not necessary to peel from the plate-like structure 2 so as not to leave a residue of the plant root 8 strictly because it is washed and / or sterilized. It suffices if the plant body root 8 and the plate-like structure 2 can be separated.

Next, the plate-like structure 2 is removed from the container 1. The plate-like structure 2 is solid and easy to move. Therefore, it can be separated very easily even when compared with conventional soil cultivation. Moreover, when the some plate-shaped structure 2 is connected, it is preferable to isolate | separate each. By using the minimum unit of the configuration, workability is improved without being bulky. Further, since the plate-like structure 2 is plate-like, if it is separated to the minimum unit, it can be overlapped and the work surface is excellent.
On the other hand, work is required to separate and assemble the plurality of plate-like structures, but the plate-like structure is obtained by using the groove portion 4, the support member 5, and the connecting skewer-like member as described above. Each of the two can be separated and assembled very easily.

  Next, the plate-like structure is cleaned and / or sterilized. The washing and / or sterilization of the plate-like structure is not particularly limited, but preferably includes a step of impregnating the plate-like structure 2 with the fermentation broth. The plate-like structure 2 immediately after separation from the plant root 8 has an allelopathic substance such as phenols and terpenes and a substance that inhibits plant growth, which are plant-derived repellent substances. It is known that accumulation of these repellent substances in the plate-like structure 2 causes harm such as germination inhibition directly or indirectly to the plant to be grown next. For example, rice bran inhibits the growth of rice roots, and the five phenolic acids produced during the rice spoilage process reduce legume nodulation. By impregnating the plate-like structure 2 with the fermentation broth, these repellent substances can be decomposed by an enzymatic reaction, and the suppression of plant productivity due to continuous cropping failure or the like can be avoided.

  The fermented liquor is not particularly limited as long as it has a function of decomposing plant-derived repellent substances. For example, a plant in which the root of a plant begins to corrode due to the action of a plant surface fungus after the plant is immersed in water. Examples include a culture solution of a bacterial species holding an enzyme that degrades cellulose, such as a caustic solution, oyster mushroom, and enzymes and enzyme fluid groups that degrade plant cell walls such as cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and pectin.

  The method for impregnating the plate-like structure 2 with the fermentation solution is not particularly limited as long as the fermentation solution can be sufficiently impregnated into the plate-like structure 2, but for example, the fermentation solution is poured over the plate-like structure 2. There are a method, a method of spraying a fermentation broth, a method of immersing in a separately prepared fermentation broth, and the like. Among these, it is preferable to immerse the plate-like structure 2 in the fermentation broth. This is because it is only necessary to immerse the plate-like structure 2 in the fermentation broth, and repellent substances can be removed very easily. In addition, the conditions for immersion can be easily controlled by using only the time parameter if the same solution is used.

  Although washing | cleaning and / or sterilization of the plate-shaped structure 2 are not limited, It is preferable to include the process of wash | cleaning the plate-shaped structure 2 with a discharge pressure of 7 Mpa or more using a high-pressure washing machine. By washing the plate-like structure 2 with a discharge pressure of 7 MPa or more, for example, attached plant residues can be removed. The plate-like structure 2 immediately after separation from the plant root 8 has a plant residue, and the plant residue inhibits plant growth in the same manner as the repellent substance described above. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a decrease in plant productivity due to continuous cropping failure or the like by removing plant residues adhering to the water pressure of the high pressure washer.

Moreover, although washing | cleaning and / or disinfection of a plate-shaped structure are not limited, It is preferable to include the process of heating the said plate-shaped structure for 30 minutes or more at the temperature of 55 degreeC or more. More preferably, it is preferable to heat at a temperature of 55 ° C. or more for 2 hours or more. Even more preferably, it is preferable to heat at a temperature of 90 ° C. or higher for 30 minutes or longer. By heating for 30 minutes or more at a temperature of 55 ° C. or higher, soil pathogens such as buzarium that cause harm to plants can be sufficiently sterilized. Furthermore, by heating for 2 hours or more, soil pathogens such as buzarium can be completely sterilized. By heating at a temperature of 160 ° C. or higher for 30 minutes or longer, for example, plant residues and the like can be removed and phenolic substances that are repellent substances can be decomposed. Since plant residues, repellents and the like inhibit plant growth as described above, it is possible to avoid degradation of plant productivity due to continuous cropping failure or the like by decomposition, removal, or the like. Further, the plate-like structure can be sterilized by heating.
When heating, the plate-like structure 2 is preferably made of a heat-resistant material such as a porous ceramic sintered body. This is because if the plate-like structure 2 is resistant to heat, it can be fired at a sufficiently high temperature, and plant residues, repellent substances, bacteria, etc. can be completely removed, decomposed and sterilized.

  Moreover, it is preferable to pressurize further the above-mentioned heating process. When pressurizing, the plate-like structure is preferably heated under pressure for 20 minutes or more under a pressure condition of 2 atm or more and a temperature condition of 120 ° C. or more. By pressurizing, it is possible to sterilize bacteria, remove plant residues, decompose repellents, and the like at a lower temperature and in a shorter time, and improve work efficiency.

Moreover, although washing | cleaning and / or disinfection of a plate-shaped structure are not limited, It is preferable to include the process of impregnating a plate-shaped structure with ozone water. Since ozone water has a strong sterilization effect, bacteria can be sterilized efficiently by impregnating the plate-like structure with ozone water. In addition, ozone water means the solution which melt | dissolved ozone in water.
The impregnation with ozone water is preferably performed for 15 minutes or more in ozone water having an ozone concentration of 0.25 ppm or more. More preferably, it is preferably impregnated with ozone water having an ozone concentration of 0.5 ppm or more for 5 minutes or more. Even more preferably, it is preferably impregnated with ozone water having an ozone concentration of 1.5 ppm or more for 5 minutes or more. If ozone water having an ozone concentration of 0.25 ppm or more is impregnated for 15 minutes or more, soil pathogenic bacteria such as buzarium bacteria can be sufficiently sterilized. Moreover, if the ozone concentration of 0.5 ppm or more is used, it is possible to sufficiently sterilize Buzarium bacteria in about 5 minutes, and the working time can be shortened. Furthermore, if it is impregnated with ozone water having an ozone concentration of 1.5 ppm or more for 5 minutes or more, pathogenic Escherichia coli such as O-157 and O-154 which are causative bacteria causing large-scale food poisoning in Japan and Europe, etc. Bacteria that form spores (very durable cell structures made by some bacteria) can also be sterilized. Pathogenic Escherichia coli is likely to expand under conditions of high temperature and humidity, and bacteria are likely to propagate in an environment such as a plant factory.
However, the ozone concentration here means a concentration in which ozone is always blown and maintained because ozone water is easily released.

Moreover, it is preferable to impregnate the plate-like structure with ozone processed water having an ozone concentration of 0.5 ppm or more for 1 minute or more. More preferably, the plate-like structure is impregnated with ozone processed water having an ozone concentration of 1.5 ppm or more for 1.5 minutes or more. If the plate-like structure is impregnated with ozone processed water having an ozone concentration of 0.5 ppm or more for 1 minute or longer, pathogenic Escherichia coli such as buzarium bacteria, O-157 and O-154 can be sterilized. If the plate-like structure is impregnated with ozone processed water having an ozone concentration of 1.5 ppm or more for 1.5 minutes or longer, bacteria that form spores (an extremely durable cell structure produced by some bacteria) are also sterilized. can do. The impregnation method can be the same as the method for impregnating the fermentation broth.
The ozone-processed water is a solution in which ozone is dissolved in water, and includes a solution containing extremely invisible micro bubbles having a diameter of 200 nm or less. Ozone processed water can hold | maintain, without releasing | emitting ozone in a solution, compared with general ozone water, and can maintain ozone concentration for about 1 to 3 months. Therefore, when ozone processed water is used, it is not necessary to continue supplying ozone during the work, and it can be sterilized very efficiently from the viewpoint of workability. Moreover, compared with normal ozone water, the osmotic power in a structure | tissue or a structure is high. This can be confirmed from the difference in time required for sterilization at an ozone concentration of 1.5 ppm or more.

  Furthermore, the washing and / or sterilization of the plate-like structure is not limited, but preferably includes a step of impregnating the plate-like structure with a solution having a chlorine concentration of 0.1 mg / l or more for 5 minutes or more. Chlorine has a bactericidal effect like ozone processed water. If the chlorine concentration is 0.1 mg / l or more, bacteria can be sterilized efficiently by chlorine. Moreover, if it is impregnated for 5 minutes or more, all the bacteria remaining in the plate-like structure can be sterilized. The impregnation method can be the same as the method for impregnating the fermentation broth.

  Furthermore, the washing and / or sterilization of the plate-like structure is not limited, but preferably includes a step of giving the plate-like structure an absorbed dose of 500 Gy or more. As for radiation, chlorine has a bactericidal effect as well as ozone processed water, and bacteria can be sterilized efficiently by giving the plate-like structure an absorbed dose of 500 Gy or more. For this radiation, a general radiation source such as cobalt 60 can be used.

  By performing such washing and / or sterilization, there is no obstacle to plant growth, and even if the plate-like structure 2 that has been used once is used repeatedly, problems such as continuous cropping failures do not occur. That is, a plant can be repeatedly and easily grown by washing and / or sterilizing the plate-like structure.

(Manufacturing method of plant growing device)
The manufacturing method of the plant growing apparatus 10 consists of the manufacturing process of the container 1 and the plate-shaped structure 2, and the assembly process of each member. Commercially available containers 1 and plate-like structures 2 can be used, and the plate-like structure 2 can be arbitrarily arranged in the container 1 in the assembly process.
Therefore, only the manufacturing method of the sintered body A will be described as a manufacturing method. The substrate manufacturing process of the sintered body A includes a mixing process, a forming process, and a firing process.

<Mixing process>
A mixing process is a process of obtaining a mixture by mixing a foaming agent, clays, and organic sludge. As a mixture, the thing containing a foaming agent and clay is preferable, for example, and the thing containing a foaming agent, organic sludge, and clay is more preferable. By using a foaming agent and clay, irregularities in the order of millimeters or micrometers can be formed on the surface of large pores in the order of millimeters, pores in the order of micrometers, or porous ceramic fired bodies. Furthermore, by using organic sludge, it is possible to form more micrometer-order holes and even smaller nanometer-order holes. The porous ceramic fired body obtained by firing such a mixture has mutual holes having communication holes.
The mixing method of each component in a mixing process is not specifically limited, For example, the method of throwing a foaming agent, clays, and organic sludge into a mixing apparatus at once and mixing is mentioned.

  10-80 mass% is preferable, as for the compounding quantity of the foaming agent in a mixture, 30-70 mass% is more preferable, and 40-60 mass% is further more preferable. If the blending amount of the foaming agent is within the above range, the moldability of the mixture can be smoothly formed without being impaired, and the porosity, bulk specific gravity, and saturated moisture content of the porous ceramic sintered body can be easily adjusted to a suitable range. be able to.

The blending amount of the clays in the mixture can be determined in consideration of moldability, preferably 5 to 60% by mass, more preferably 8 to 50% by mass, and still more preferably 10 to 40% by mass.
When the blending amount of the clay is within the above range, the moldability of the mixture can be smoothly formed without sacrificing, and the strength of the obtained porous ceramic sintered body can be sufficiently secured.

  The blending amount of the organic sludge in the mixture can be determined in consideration of moldability, preferably 1 to 60% by mass, more preferably 5 to 40% by mass, and further preferably 5 to 30% by mass. If the blending amount of the organic sludge is within the above range, the mixture has appropriate fluidity and plasticity, has high moldability, and can be molded smoothly without blocking the molding apparatus. Moreover, it becomes easy to make a hole communicate, and the porous ceramic sintered compact of the desired porosity and saturated water content can be obtained easily.

  Although the moisture content of a mixture is not specifically limited, 25-45 mass% is preferable and 25-30 mass% is more preferable. If it is in the said range, a mixture has moderate plasticity and fluidity | liquidity, and can maintain favorable moldability.

When the optional component is blended in the mixture, the blending amount of the optional component is within a range that does not hinder the object of the present invention, and is preferably in the range of 0.001 to 10% by mass of the entire mixture.
In addition, in the mixing step, when organic sludge is blended at a suitable blending ratio, it is not necessary to add water in the mixing step with water contained in the organic sludge, and adjustment of the fluidity of the mixture For the purpose, etc., water may be appropriately blended.
In addition, when mix | blending a high melting glass particle as another component, it is preferable to make the compounding quantity of a high melting glass particle into the range of 5-35 mass%. When it exceeds 35 mass% and a high melting glass particle is mix | blended, there exists a possibility that a porosity and a saturated water content may fall. On the other hand, if it is less than 5% by mass, the effect of improving the strength may not be obtained.

The mixing apparatus used for a mixing process is not specifically limited, A well-known mixing apparatus can be used.
For example, as a mixing apparatus, a kneader such as a mix muller (manufactured by Shinto Kogyo Co., Ltd.), a kneader (manufactured by Moriyama Co., Ltd.), a mixer (manufactured by Nippon Ceramic Science Co., Ltd.) and the like can be mentioned.

  The mixing time in the mixing process can be determined in consideration of the blending ratio of foaming agent, clays and organic sludge, fluidity of the mixture, etc., and determine the mixing time so that the mixture becomes plastic. Is preferred. The mixing time is preferably in the range of 15 to 45 minutes, more preferably in the range of 25 to 35 minutes.

  The temperature in the mixing step is not particularly limited, and can be determined in consideration of the blending ratio of the foaming agent, clays and organic sludge, the water content, etc., and is preferably in the range of 10 to 80 ° C., 50 to 60 More preferably, it is in the range of ° C.

<Molding process>
The forming step is a step of forming the mixture obtained in the mixing step into a plate shape.
As the forming method, a known forming method can be used, and it can be determined in consideration of the properties of the mixture and the shape of the porous ceramic sintered body. The molding method is, for example, a method of continuously obtaining a plate-shaped molded body using a molding apparatus, a method of obtaining a molded body by filling the mixture into a mold having a plate-shaped cavity, or a plate after stretching the mixture. And the like, and the mixture is continuously extruded into a cylindrical shape, cut, rolled, and then cut. Among these, from the viewpoint of improving production efficiency, a method of continuously obtaining a molded body using a molding apparatus is preferable. Moreover, it becomes easy to form a horizontally long hole by, for example, orienting and / or stretching and / or rolling the mixture in the molding step to orient the foaming agent.

  As the molding apparatus, a vacuum clay molding machine, a flat plate press molding machine, a flat plate extrusion molding machine, or the like can be used. Among these, a vacuum clay molding machine is preferable. By removing the air in the molded body using a vacuum clay molding machine, the control of the holes is stabilized.

  The size of the molded body is not particularly limited, but is preferably in the range of, for example, length 10 cm to 2 m × width 10 cm to 2 m × thickness 1 cm to 10 cm. If it falls outside the lower limit of the above range, productivity may be reduced. If the upper limit is exceeded, sintering will be insufficient, and the porous ceramic sintered body may be damaged during transport.

<Baking process>
The firing step is a step of firing the formed body obtained in the forming step and sintering clays to obtain a porous ceramic sintered body substrate.
It is preferable to dry the molded body before firing. The drying operation is not particularly limited, and a known method can be used. For example, the molded body may be naturally dried, or may be dried by treating in a hot air drying furnace at 50 to 220 ° C. for an arbitrary time. Although the moisture content of the molded object after drying is not specifically limited, Less than 3 mass% is preferable and less than 1 mass% is more preferable. The moisture content of the dried molded body may be 0% by mass as the lower limit.

The firing method is not particularly limited, and a known method can be used. Examples thereof include a method of firing at an arbitrary temperature using a continuous sintering furnace such as a roller hearth kiln or a batch sintering furnace such as a shuttle kiln. Among them, it is preferable to use a continuous sintering furnace for firing from the viewpoint of productivity.
In addition, when odor is generated during firing, a deodorizing device may be attached to the firing device. Examples of the deodorizer include a scrubber deodorizer, an ozone deodorizer, a catalyst deodorizer using a photocatalyst, and the like.

The firing temperature (attainment temperature) is set in consideration of the blending ratio of the foaming agent, clays, and organic sludge, the components of the organic sludge, and the like. For example, the temperature is set to a temperature at which the foaming agent foams and expands, sinters clays, and the organic matter contained in the organic sludge volatilizes and decreases in volume due to thermal decomposition. Specifically, the firing temperature is 950 to 1200 ° C, preferably 1000 to 1100 ° C. Most organic substances begin to decompose at around 700 ° C, and odorous components are thermally decomposed at 950 ° C. By setting the temperature to 950 ° C or higher, the odor peculiar to organic sludge can be eliminated and a large amount of organic substances in the organic sludge can be removed. It can be reduced by volatilizing the part. When cast iron slag is used as the foaming agent, it crystallizes and expands at about 800 to 950 ° C.
When the firing temperature exceeds 1200 ° C., vitrification of the entire structure of the porous ceramic sintered body proceeds, and the molded body may be damaged or the pores may be blocked.

In the firing step, before the firing temperature is reached, water is first evaporated from the molded body, the foaming agent is foamed, and then the organic matter of the organic sludge is thermally decomposed and reduced in weight. It is preferable to appropriately adjust the temperature rise (heat curve, temperature gradient) until the firing temperature is reached.
In a continuous sintering furnace, if the moisture content of the molded body at the time of charging exceeds 3% by mass, the molded body may burst or explode due to the rapid vaporization of the water content in the firing process. There is also a risk of breakage due to rapid volatilization of. However, if the temperature gradient is adjusted to suppress rapid evaporation of water or rapid decrease in organic matter, it is possible to prevent rupture and breakage of the molded body as described above.
Also, during rapid cooling after reaching the firing temperature, the porous ceramic sintered body may be damaged such as cracking or pulverization, but by adjusting the temperature gradient in the firing process, Can be prevented from being damaged.

  In addition, the temperature gradient should be taken into account the scale of the baking apparatus. If an appropriate temperature gradient is provided according to the scale of the firing apparatus, the porosity is increased or the holes are communicated with each other, so that the heat insulating property, sound absorbing property, water retention, water permeability, plant of the porous ceramic sintered body It is possible to further improve the cultivatability or breathability.

  The firing time can be determined in consideration of the firing temperature, the moisture content of the mixture, etc., and the residence time in the state of being at the firing temperature is preferably 1 to 120 minutes, more preferably 3 to 60 minutes, Preferably, it is 4 to 10 minutes. If the residence time is within the above range, the porous ceramic sintered body can be satisfactorily sintered while preventing damage to the porous ceramic sintered body.

  In the firing step, moisture evaporates in order from the fired surface, and the porous ceramic is formed by sintering while foaming agent foams. For this reason, when the foaming agent inside the foamed material is foamed, foaming is hindered by the sintered porous ceramic on the fired surface, and the foam tends to spread in the in-plane direction with respect to the fired surface. Thereby, anisotropy arises in an internal hole and the hole extended in the surface direction with respect to the calcination surface is formed. That is, when the porous ceramic is formed in a plate shape, it is considered that a horizontally long hole is more easily formed in a cross section cut along a plane perpendicular to the fired surface.

1. Container 2. 2. Plate-like structure 3. Space between plant roots Groove part 5. Support member 6. Jacket 7 Water 8. Plant root 9. Table 10. Plant growing device

Claims (9)

A container capable of storing or retaining moisture, and a plate-like structure having a plurality of water absorption properties, which is detachably installed in the container,
A plant growing method for continuously growing plants using a plant growing device in which a space sandwiching a plant root is formed by the plurality of plate-like structures,
A plant growing method, wherein the plate-like structure is removed from the container, and the plate-like structure is washed and / or sterilized and used repeatedly.   2. The plant growing method according to claim 1, wherein the washing and / or sterilization includes a step of impregnating the plate-like structure with a fermentation broth.   The plant according to claim 1, wherein the washing and / or sterilization includes a step of washing the plate-like structure with a discharge pressure of 7 MPa or more using a high-pressure washing machine. Training method.   The said washing | cleaning and / or disinfection includes the process of heating the said plate-shaped structure for 30 minutes or more at the temperature of 55 degreeC or more, The plant growth as described in any one of Claims 1-3 characterized by the above-mentioned. Method.   2. The washing and / or sterilization includes a step of pressurizing and heating the plate-like structure for 20 minutes or more under a pressure condition of 2 atm or more and a temperature condition of 120 ° C. or more. The plant cultivation method described in any one of -3.   The said washing | cleaning and / or disinfection includes the process of immersing 0.25 ppm or more of ozone water in the said plate-shaped structure for 15 minutes or more, It was described in any one of Claims 1-5 characterized by the above-mentioned. Plant growing method.   The washing and / or sterilization includes a step of impregnating the plate-like structure with 0.5 ppm or more of ozone processed water for 1 minute or more. Plant growing method.   The cleaning and / or sterilization includes a step of impregnating the plate-like structure with a solution having a chlorine concentration of 0.1 mg / l or more for 5 minutes or more. The plant growing method described.   The plant cleaning method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the cleaning and / or sterilization includes a step of giving an absorbed dose of 500 Gy or more to the plate-like structure.