Solar energy utilization and conservation in an industrial solar drying process

Abstract

Decarbonization in food production systems is one of the greatest challenges today. Solar drying is one of the processes that can help this energy transition and improve food production systems. This research presents the results of the development of a new solar drying technology with applicability in the food production system. A technoeconomic assessment was carried out. The best configuration for an integral drying system for various applications was obtained. The developed solar drying technology is portable, efficient, modular, versatile, continuous processing, with minimal degradation in the dehydrated product. According to the annualized cost method calculations, the cost of drying products with this technology is much lower than when using conventional energies and has a short payback period of 1–2 years. This research is the first part of the ongoing project. Improved equipment and various applications are in progress.