Solar drying

 

 

István Farkas

Department of Physics and Process Control, Szent István University, Hungary Gödöllő, Páter K. u. 1, Hungary

 

 

 

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review focuses on the use of solar drying processes for different biological materials.

Findings: It has been found that solar drying can play a rather important role in influencing energy savings and the quality of end-products, as well as in mediating environmental issues. These findings promote the development of such technology.

Directions for future research: There is a need for further research in different applications of solar and sun drying. Basic experimental research is needed for the determination and control of the drying and material characteristics, the heat and mass transfer parameters and to establish the maximum allowable drying temperature of various products. Further work is needed for design considerations, dimensioning of dryers, and developing new technical and technological solutions for solar dryers. Additionally, studies are required to establish the feasibility and applicability of solar drying for new materials. Economical evaluations are also important.

 

Keywords: drying technologies; dryers; grains; fruits; vegetable; economical evaluation

 

Stewart Postharvest Review 2008, 2:9

Published online 01 April 2008

doi: 10.2212/spr.2008.2.9