Mathematical modeling of greenhouse solar dryers with natural and forced convection for agricultural products: state of the art

Abstract

Sun-drying is the most widely used method of preserving agricultural products; however, under hostile climatic conditions it leads to serious losses in product quantity and quality. The use of solar drying technology in developing countries can reduce postharvest losses and significantly improve product quality compared to other methods. The development of mathematical models of solar dryers is necessary to be able to design, control and optimize this type of system. The aim of this study is to provide an overview of the different approaches to modeling and simulating greenhouse solar dryers, both of natural and forced convection. In addition, models that have not been extensively used in this area, such as empirical and numerical ones, are discussed.