Abstract
Solar thermal technology is emerging as a promising alternative in fulfilling the global energy requirement. Solar dryers, utilising the power of solar energy, are rapidly gaining global acceptance in the drying of agricultural products as a potential substitute for natural and fossil fuels. Fluctuation and non-availability of solar irradiation is the major challenge faced by solar dryers. This setback can be alleviated by capturing the sun’s energy during peak radiation time and later using it during inadequate radiation times or during night times. Solar dryers with thermal energy storage systems offer optimum steady state temperature (45 - 75°C) for drying of agricultural produces. Besides exhibiting reduced drying rate, these storage units extend the drying time of the solar dryer system during late evening hours. As PCM plays a vital role in enhancing the performance of solar drying systems, this paper attempts to present a summary of investigations of solar drying systems integrated with phase changing materials as latent heat storage for drying of agricultural products.
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