Simulation modelling and thin layer drying kinetics of untreated pineapple using modified hybrid solar dryer with thermal storage

Energy utilization is an important indication of economic growth and has been directly related to energy consumption. In tropical countries like India, post-harvest losses on fresh perishable fruits are significant, resulting in recurring seasonal shortages. As a result, a modified evacuated tube collector (ETC) based hybrid photovoltaic thermal (PVT) passive-mode solar dryer equipped with sensible thermal storage material shortly called Modified Hybrid Solar Dryer (MHSD), is developed as a potential low-cost technology alternative for drying fruits in Southern region of India. This research compares the drying performance of MHSD and forced convection solar dryer (FCSD) dryers to that of the standard open sun drying (OSD) technique. Compared to the OSD technique, the economic performance of the MHSD and FCSD dryers is examined. The initial moisture content of pineapple slices is determined to be 91 % (wb). The safe moisture content is achieved in 8 h utilizing MHSD coupled with sensible heat storage material (SHSM), while FCSD and sun drying required 19 and 32 h, respectively. The introduction of SHSM improves the drying potential, resulting in a significant reduction in drying time. According to the statistical analysis of the data, the Midilli et al. model is determined to be the best fit to represent the drying kinetics of untreated pineapple slices in a modified hybrid solar dryer with SHSM, FCSD, and open sun drying. The experiment is conducted on three different drying techniques. The MHSD dryer utilises freely-available solar energy to dry the fruit crops. In contrast, the Forced Convection Solar Dryer (FCSD) uses both solar photovoltaic and electricity sources. The results showed that solar-dried pineapple in MHSD with SHSM is more effectively preserved without losing size, shape, colour, appearance, texture, flavour, and quality than solar-dried pineapple in FCSD or sun-dried pineapple pulp. The economic study of an ETC-based hybrid PVT passive-mode solar dryer with SHSM yields a payback period of two years, which is extremely short given the 25-year lifespan.