Review of Design, Performance and Sustainability of Hybrid Drying Systems for Food Products

Engineering notes

Engineering notes will be added by the Power for Solar editorial team.

Chinese explanation / 中文解读

中文解读待补充：本站会优先为光伏效率、钙钛矿太阳能电池、储能技术、太阳能热利用、BIPV、并网技术等高价值论文补充中文说明。

Original abstract

Purpose: This paper is an attempt to investigate the performance of hybrid drying systems as an effective alternative method of drying food and agro-based products, focusing specifically on the applications that could be used in Laghu Udyog (small-scale enterprises) and cottage industries. Design/Methodology/Approach: The paper is an in-depth literature review on the current research on hybrid drying technologies. The review addresses key aspects, including system design, classification, mathematical modelling, and performance analysis of various hybrid dryers. Research articles published between 2101 and 2025 were retrieved from reputable databases, including Google Scholar, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Scopus. Around 250 articles were initially identified, out of which 100 relevant research articles were selected after the screening. The selected research articles were analysed with respect to sustainability aspects, energy consumption, thermal performance, and drying efficiency. Research Limitation: The review is based on peer-reviewed studies published between 2010 and 2025 and retrieved from reputable databases. Some regional studies, industrial reports, and non-English publications may not have been included. Furthermore, variations in experimental conditions and evaluation methods among the reviewed studies may affect direct comparison of results. Findings: Hybrid drying systems are much more effective at improving drying, reducing drying time, and better controlling product quality than traditional sun drying. A combination of solar energy and supplemental energy sources increases operational reliability and flexibility, enabling these systems for decentralised food processing. Practical Implication: Small-scale food processors can use hybrid drying systems to enhance product hygiene, minimise post-harvest losses, and maintain product quality. Social Implication: These technologies have the potential to promote sustainable rural processing and increase the economic sustainability of the small and cottage industries. Originality/Value: This review highlights recent advancements in hybrid drying technologies. It also explores emerging, cutting-edge parameters like IoT monitoring, AI optimisation, and smarter energy use. These innovations can help design efficient and sustainable drying systems for future food processing.

Links and sources

• PDF from original source

Comments