Thermal and Energy Performance Analysis of Solar Dryers with Adobe Walls: An Experimental Study in Semi-Arid Regions
Oumar Bailou
*
University Lédéa Bernard OUEDRAOGO Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso and Laboratory of Environmental Physics and Chemistry (LPCE) Université Joseph Ki Zerbo Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
Compaore Aboubakar
University Lédéa Bernard OUEDRAOGO Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso and Laboratory of Environmental Physics and Chemistry (LPCE) Université Joseph Ki Zerbo Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
Guy Christian Tubreoumya
Laboratory of Environmental Physics and Chemistry (LPCE) Université Joseph Ki Zerbo Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
Emmanuel Ouedraogo
University Lédéa Bernard OUEDRAOGO Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso and Laboratory of Renewable Thermal Energies (LETRE) Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
Eloi Salmwendé Tiendrebeogo
Laboratory of Environmental Physics and Chemistry (LPCE) Université Joseph Ki Zerbo Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
Alfa Oumar Dissa
Laboratory of Environmental Physics and Chemistry (LPCE) Université Joseph Ki Zerbo Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
Antoine Bere
Laboratory of Environmental Physics and Chemistry (LPCE) Université Joseph Ki Zerbo Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This study evaluates a greenhouse-type solar dryer with adobe walls, a natural material known for its thermal inertia, aimed at improving the drying of agricultural products in tropical regions. By using local materials, the system reduces costs and environmental impact while enhancing energy efficiency. Experimental observations demonstrate the dryer’s ability to maintain stable internal temperatures above ambient levels, even during sunless periods, highlighting the thermal inertia of adobe. The findings confirm that adobe-based dryers provide a sustainable, low-cost alternative to conventional systems and support their broader adoption in rural areas. The results also suggest potential for further optimization and scaling using other natural materials.
Keywords: Solar dryer, adobe walls, thermal performance, energy efficiency, sustainable materials, agricultural product drying, greenhouse-type dryer