Thermal performance of the photovoltaic–ventilated mixed mode greenhouse solar dryer with automatic closed loop control for Ganoderma drying

Abstract

The results of the thermal performance of the photovoltaic-ventilated mixed-mode greenhouse solar dryer have been investigated. A mixed-mode greenhouse solar dryer with automatic closed-loop control is used in the drying process. For the same solar radiation, four drying conditions have been conducted and compared with the open-sun traditional drying. It is found that the drying curves show only the falling rate period. The drying rate of the Ganoderma inside the greenhouse solar dryer is higher than that from the open sun traditional drying. The ventilated frequency and drying temperature have a significant effect on the evaporating moisture of the Ganoderma, which more favorable for drying, especially method II. The results obtained from this study can be used to design the system dryer practically shorten the drying time of the Ganoderma.