Analysis of solar drying methods and design schemes of solar dryers
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31548/energiya2(84).2026.119Keywords:
renewable energy sources, solar energy, solar drying, solar dryerAbstract
Global warming caused by greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere requires decisive action toward decarbonization, primarily in the energy sector, that is, a transition to carbon-free, particularly renewable, energy sources. Thermal drying of agricultural products is one of the sectors that requires significant energy consumption, which leads to CO2 emissions. The use of solar radiation energy for drying processes can significantly reduce the carbon footprint as well as the consumption of energy from fossil resources. However, one of the main obstacles to the widespread implementation of solar dryers is the variability of solar radiation during the technological process. It is determined by the time of day, season, local climate, and meteorological conditions. This leads to the risks of instability of temperature and humidity regimes and deterioration of product quality. The aim of the article is to analyze drying methods and structural schemes of solar dryers used in modern technological processes. The study used the methods of analysis, comparison, and generalization of the results of scientific research on solar drying processes. As a result, it was determined that the efficiency of solar drying significantly depends on the method of heat supply, the organization of air convection, the ability to compensate for periods of low insolation by means of additional energy sources or storage, as well as on the structural type of the dryer. In accordance with the stated objective, it is necessary to select a method that will ensure an efficient drying process while complying with the requirements for preserving product quality.
Recieved: 18.01.2026. Recieved: 01.04.2026. Accepted: 17.04.2026.
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