| Solar drying systems are not able to achieve best drying rates given the intermittent nature of solar energy and poor airflows. To address this problem, a solar-biomass dryer measuring 8 m long, 4 m wide and 2.6 m high, with two layers of beds, was developed for use by medium scale processors in Kenya. It had a bimodal biomass heating system to back up the solar energy, and four provisions for air ventilation; chimney, turbo ventilators, lower opening and fans. It was constructed and preliminary tests on it undertaken at Khwisero in Kakamega County, Kenya. Six commonly grown crops; arrow roots (Maranta arundinacea), cassava (Manihot esculenta), sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas), kales (Brassica oleraceae var acephala), bananas (Musa spp.) and spider plant... |
