THEORETICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OFTHE TEMPERATURE PROFILE OF A GREENHOUSEDRYER WITH WALLS MADE OF ADOBE BRICKS

In the framework of the promotion of sustainable energy solutions, this study investigates the efficiency of a greenhouse solar dryer with walls made of adobe (clay) bricks, a local material known for its high thermal inertia. The aim is to optimize the thermal performance of this dryer in order to improve the preservation of agricultural products, particularly in tropical regions. The prototype dryer, designed with a 15° sloping glazed roof and adobe walls, was studied using a combined approach of experiments and numerical modelling. The measurements were used to characterize the thermophysical properties of the clay and to validate a numerical model based on the finite element method. The results show a good correlation between the measured and simulated temperatures, demonstrating the reliability of the model. The thermal performance of the dryer effectively stabilizes internal temperatures between 22°C and 45°C due to the use of clay. This technology is therefore accessible, economical and particularly well suited to the needs of rural communities for sustainable food preservation. This study paves the way for further research to refine the design of the dryers and improve their efficiency in different climatic conditions.