State of the art on solar drying technology: a review

Solar thermal energy is used in many countries of the world in the agricultural area to conserve agricultural produce and in the industrial sector for drying commercial products. Solar drying is practical, economical and the responsible approach in an environmental point of view. Solar dryers are available in large range of sizes, different design and are used for drying various food and industrial products. It is found that various types of driers are available to suit the needs of end users. This paper deals with a comprehensive review of the various designs, construction and operational principles of the wide variety of practically-realised designs of solar dryer reported previously. Some very recent developments in solar drying technology are highlighted.

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