Experimental investigation of grain low-temperature storage with a novel solar-powered adsorption chiller

Abstract

Low temperature storage of grain can not only inhibit the respiration of stored grain and extend its storage time, but also prevent the development of insect and mould. Solar space cooling appears to be very attractive for low temperature grain storage because the pattern of availability of solar energy matches the demand for cooling. In this study, a novel solar-powered adsorption chiller used for low temperature grain storage is developed and put into experimental operation. Test results show that the solar-powered adsorption chiller can produce a cooling capacity about 66 to 90W per m2 collector area, with a daily solar cooling COP (coefficient of performance) about 0.1 to o. 13. Compared with compression grain chiller, the solar-powered adsorption chiller shows great energy-saving potential.