Review of Solar Dryer Performance Using Different Materials in Cabinet Dryer: Coal and Black Carbon with or without Backup Heater

Abstract

Solar dryers are a crucial technology for agricultural product drying, offering sustainable and energy-efficient alternatives to traditional drying methods. The performance of solar dryers can be significantly enhanced by incorporating different materials into the drying system. This review paper focuses on the utilization of coal and black carbon materials in cabinet dryers, both with and without a backup heater, to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of solar drying.

In the first section, the thermal conductivity of coal is examined, highlighting its ability to facilitate efficient heat transfer. Experimental studies on coal-water mixtures reveal the potential for enhancing heating efficiency in solar dryers. The findings suggest that coal particles can enhance heat transfer, resulting in faster and more uniform drying.

The second section explores the use of black carbon materials in solar dryers. An overview of black carbon is provided, including its sources and characteristics. Experimental investigations on black carbon-water mixtures demonstrate the ability of black carbon to enhance solar energy absorption and heat transfer, leading to improved drying performance. The review also evaluates the system effectiveness and performance of black carbon in solar dryers, considering factors such as drying rate, energy efficiency, and product quality.

A comparative analysis is conducted to compare the performance of coal and black carbon materials in solar dryers. The heating efficiency improvements and thermal performance achieved by these materials are discussed, highlighting their suitability for solar water heating applications. Challenges in incorporating materials in solar dryers are discussed in the subsequent section.