Post-harvest treatment of algerian broad beans using two different solar drying methods

This work was carried up in the objective to valorize the broad beans, largely harvested in Algeria, by solar drying means. In the present research paper, an experimental study was conducted on solar drying of broad beans by two different methods. Experimental trials were performed on a direct and an indirect laboratory scale solar dryers at Ouargla university in the southern of Algeria. Selected samples were dried at 50°C, 55°C, 60°C and 65°C. In both two applied cases, drying curves were obtained and compared. Among twelve consulted drying models the Page model was correlated with satisfaction to describe the solar drying of broad beans using a non linear regression analysis method. Operating and thermal performances of the two used drying systems were checked by the energy effeceincy and economic calculation. Obtained results showed that the direct solar drying ensures good preservation of the final product with a drying time of 5 hours. (Author)