Passive solar dryers as sustainable alternatives for drying agricultural produce in sub-Saharan Africa: advances and challenges

Abstract The lack of adequate techniques for food processing is among the reasons underlying losses and high levels hunger in Sub-Saharan Africa; application solar energy to dry agricultural products one potential solution. However, total replacement traditional uses still far from reality. Therefore, this study, we systematically review academic literature testing passive drying systems order assess their performance. Then main limitations challenges dryers developed Africa are derived. search reveals very limited research a standardized methods dryer Studies mainly report parameters related dryers’ thermal performance physical features, thus neglecting quality dried economics. Standardized robust methodologies urgently needed more accurate conclusions comparability study results. Moreover, successfully applying as an alternative use requires overcoming such time consumption, quantities products, periodic nature radiation. Thus, given its ability significantly improve self-life overcome current effective utilization SSA, mixed mode greenhouse proposed.