Work

Thermodynamic analysis of a sustainable solar-biomass hybrid dryer with thermal energy storage systems

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: An efficient continuous-type solar-biomass powered grain-dryer coupled with thermal storage mediums (sensible and latent) has been developed for small-scale farmers. Thermodynamic analysis of the developed dryer has been performed for performance optimization. This investigation comprises the energy and exergy examination of paddy drying of 12 kg capacity for the moisture content reduction of 20.4 % (34.2 % to 13.8 %). Thermal storage mediums, such as pebbles and paraffin wax, are used to maintain stable temperature during the drying process in the chamber of a biomass-based dryer. In this analysis, two batches of paddy (12 kg/batch) were successfully dried in each drying mode (solar and biomass operating mode). Solar energy was used in paddy drying during the daytime and biomass energy during the night. The improvement potential and sustainability index of dryer under solar drying have also been evaluated. The environmental impact analysis of the dryer has also been conducted.

Source: Thermal Science and Engineering Progress

DOI: 10.1016/j.tsep.2025.103527

Authors: Dhananjay Kumar, Pavitra Singh, Pankaj Kalita, Pinakeswar Mahanta

Institutions: Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, National Institute of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, National Institute of Technology Meghalaya

Language: English

Topic: Food Drying and Modeling

Subfield: Food Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Responsible consumption and production, Climate action, Zero hunger

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,000