This study presents the development and evaluation of a stand-alone solar dryer designed to improve the efficiency of bee bread dehydration. Unlike the electric prototype powered by conventional energy sources, the proposed system operates autonomously, utilizing solar energy as the primary drying agent. The drying chamber is equipped with solar collectors located in its lower section, which ensure convective heating of the product. Active convection is generated by a set of fans powered by photovoltaic panels, maintaining the drying agent’s temperature near 42 °C. The research methodology integrates both numerical simulation and experimental investigation. Simulations focus on the variations in temperature (288–315 K) and relative humidity (1–1.5%) within the honeycomb structure under convective airflow. Experimental trials examine the relationship between moisture content and variables such as bee bread mass, airflow rate, number of frames (5–11 units), and drying time (2–11 h). A statistically grounded analysis based on an experimental design method was conducted, revealing a reduction in moisture content from 16.2–18.26% to 14.1–15.1% under optimized conditions. Linear regression models were derived to describe these dependencies. A comparative assessment using enthalpy–humidity (I–d) diagrams demonstrated the enhanced drying performance of the solar dryer, which is attributed to its cyclic operation mode. The results confirm the potential of the developed system for sustainable and energy-efficient drying of bee bread in decentralized conditions.

This study examines the thermophysical properties of corn grain and corn cobs at various moisture content levels. The aim of the research was to determine the specific heat capacity, thermal conductivity, and thermal diffusivity for the analysis of thermal treatment and drying processes of corn. In addition, thermophysical characteristics, including the density of corn grain and cobs, were determined, and the dependence of these parameters on moisture content was established. The obtained relationships allow for a more accurate description of heat and moisture transfer processes during the drying and storage of corn. To determine the thermophysical properties of corn cobs, the ITP MG4-100 device was used, which provides measurement of the main thermophysical parameters with the required accuracy. A spherical bicalorimeter was also employed to determine the thermophysical properties of corn grain and to calculate the main thermal characteristics of the material. Measurement of temperature parameters on the surface of corn cobs was carried out using a Fluke infrared thermometer, which enabled temperature monitoring during the experiment. Drying of the samples was performed in the «ShS-40 SPU» drying unit within specified temperature and humidity ranges. During the study, the thermophysical properties of corn grain and cobs at different moisture contents were determined. Moisture transfer processes were also investigated; as a result of drying, the moisture content of the product decreased from 72% to 60%. Analysis of the experimental data and the obtained relationships contributes to the development of thermal treatment and drying methods aimed at improving the efficiency of corn drying.

Солнечная энергия считается перспективным направлением для экологически устойчивой термической обработки биологических материалов. Для региона г. Алматы, характеризующегося высоким уровнем солнечной радиации (1400–1600 кВт·ч/м² в год), применение солнечных сушильных установок рассматривается как эффективное решение для сушки продуктов пчеловодства, в частности перги, требующей мягкого температурного режима для сохранения питательной ценности. Целью исследования являлась оценка солнечного потенциала региона, определение коэффициента светопропускания полимерной плёнки гелиосушилки и анализ её влияния на эффективность сушки. В работе представлены результаты исследования солнечной облучённости при сушке перговых гранул в солнечной сушилке. Измерения проводились пиранометром GSM/O-120 на открытом участке и внутри сушильной камеры, покрытой светопрозрачной полимерной плёнкой. Оценено светопропускание плёнки и её влияние на эффективность сушки и показано снижение облученности внутри камеры и позволили рассчитать энергетические потери. В результате получено влияние солнечного излучения на режимы сушки перги, определяя длительность процесса, конечную влажность и сохранность питательных веществ. Полученные данные способствуют оптимизации конструкции гелиосушилки и выбору материалов для эффективной сушки продуктов пчеловодства. Ключевые слова: солнечная радиация, гелиосушка, облученность, пиранометр GSM/O-120, измерение излучения, пчелиная перга.

The article presents the results of an investigation of the corn drying process using an experimental drying unit based on an air-type solar collector. Thermotechnical experiments were conducted, including measurements of air flow velocity and monitoring of changes in corn moisture content during the drying process. In addition, the structural and operational characteristics of the solar heliocollector were analyzed, and solar radiation indicators in the experimental area were studied, which made it possible to assess the level of available solar energy and its influence on air heating efficiency. The study allowed the thermal power of the air collector to be determined, the temperature distribution along its length to be evaluated, and optimal operating parameters of the system to be established. It was found that the use of solar heating provides a significant reduction in energy consumption for corn drying, increases the energy efficiency of the process, and promotes the sustainable use of renewable energy sources. Furthermore, experimental results were compared with theoretical calculations, enabling refinement of heat and moisture transfer kinetics within the corn layer. The obtained results can be applied in the design and improvement of solar drying systems for agricultural products and in substantiating rational drying regimes under conditions of variable solar radiation and natural ventilation.