Solar dryers: A review of mechanism, methods and critical analysis of transport models applicable in solar drying of product
Onyinyechi Adanma Nnamchi, Cyprian N. Tom, Godwin Akpan, Murphy Umunna, David Ubong, Ibeh Mathew, Linus –Chibuezeh Adindu, Leonard Akuwueke, Stephen Ndubuisi Nnamchi, Augustine Edet Ben, Macmanus Chinenye Ndukwu
Abstract
As the world transitions towards green energy sources solar drying has become a vital technology for sustainable agricultural production, offering a cleaner, more efficient alternative to traditional drying methods. Solar drying has been demonstrated to be a sustainable and eco-friendly drying process for drying and preserving agricultural products, offering advantages over traditional methods that include faster drying rates, improved product quality, and reduced energy costs. This review examines the mechanisms and methods applicable to solar drying, including indirect and direct solar drying, hybrid systems combining solar drying with other heating sources, and thermal storage materials to address challenges such as intermittent solar radiation. The designs of solar drying systems include various solar collector configurations, drying chamber geometries, and air conveyance mechanisms crucial for efficient drying. This review therefore explores different design approaches and their effects on drying performance, highlighting the importance of understanding the complex interactions between system components. Additionally, the approach for Energy and exergy analysis of solar drying systems was explored, providing insights into energy utilization and efficiency. Finally, this review elucidates the complex transport phenomena governing solar drying, including moisture diffusion, heat and mass transfer, and airflow patterns. It identifies knowledge gaps in existing models and future research directions in transport modelling phenomena to advance sustainable, efficient, and scalable solar drying techniques. • Solar dryer mechanisms and methods for food preservation reviewed. • Overview of direct, indirect, and hybrid solar drying systems provided. • Research on solar collector designs and configurations synthesized. • Key transport phenomena in solar drying discussed. • Knowledge gaps and future research directions in solar drying identified.