Design and Construction of an Automated Solar-powered Aquaponic System for Teaching and Research Purposes Using Acrylic Glass

Abstract

This research details the design and construction of an automated, solar-powered aquaponic system utilizing acrylic glass, aimed at providing a sustainable model for food production in Nigeria. The primary objectives were to design a functional system, evaluate the feasibility of acrylic glass as a construction material, and integrate automation and solar power for improved resource efficiency. Acrylic glass was selected for its transparency, durability, and insulating properties, while the automation system, built around an Arduino microcontroller, was designed to control key parameters such as water temperature and pH. Initial findings demonstrate the system's ability to maintain stable environmental conditions and the potential for solar power to contribute significantly to energy needs. This system offers practical implications for farmers and entrepreneurs in Nigeria by providing a scalable and sustainable approach to urban and peri-urban agriculture, addressing challenges related to food, water, and energy security in the context of climate change. Future research will focus on long-term performance assessment of the acrylic glass, optimization for diverse plant species, and comprehensive resource efficiency analysis incorporating fish culture data, ultimately aiming to facilitate wider adoption of this smart agriculture model."