Design of a low-cost natural convection solar tunnel dryer to reduce postharvest losses of tomatoes, Maize and Mangoes
1 Department of Industrial Physics, Faculty of Science, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Nigeria.
2 Department of Industrial and Medical Physics, Faculty of Natural Science, David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences (DUFUHS), Uburu Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
3 International Institute for Machine Learning, Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Research, David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences (DUFUHS), Uburu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
4 Department of Science Laboratory Technology, School of Applied Science, Kenule Beeson Saro-wiwa Polytechnic, Bori Rivers State, Nigeria.
Research Article
World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2024, 24(02), 984–989
Publication history:
Received on 21 September 2024; revised on 06 November 2024; accepted on 09 November 2024
Abstract:
This study presents the design, development, and evaluation of a low-cost natural convection solar tunnel to reduce postharvest losses of tomatoes, maize, and mangoes under the local weather conditions of Abakaliki, southeastern Nigeria. The dryer consisted of key components, including a solar chimney, collector unit, drying unit, and absorber plate made from galvanized iron, covered with a 200 μm polythene sheet and glass to enhance solar radiation absorption and minimize heat loss. Fresh produce from the local market was dried in the solar dryer, with drying temperatures ranging from 25°C to 73°C over two to three days. The dryer's performance was tested during both wet and dry seasons, and key metrics such as solar radiation, temperature, air velocity, and relative humidity were measured. The results demonstrated a 30-50% reduction in drying time compared to traditional sun drying methods while maintaining product quality. The dryer performed better during dry seasons and peak solar radiation hours, and the drying process exhibited an exponential relationship between temperature and drying time. Additionally, solar drying affected the nutritional composition of the dried products, influencing antioxidant activity, flavor, and nutrient content. The solar tunnel dryer offers a promising solution for reducing postharvest losses and preserving the nutritional quality of fruits and vegetables in the region. This innovative technology can contribute to food security and sustainable agricultural practices in developing communities.
Keywords:
Solar tunnel dryer; Postharvest losses; Drying efficiency; Food preservation; Abakaliki
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