The present study investigates a parabolic solar regenerator–based solid desiccant dehumidifier employing a silica gel–clay composite desiccant to maintain low temperature and humidity levels within a crop storage unit. The dehumidifier and regenerator operate simultaneously, with process air and regenerated air flowing in a counter-flow configuration. A parabolic solar collector supplies the required regeneration heat to remove moisture from the desiccant. The system is tested under varying wheel speeds, air velocities, and different operating periods throughout the day. Key performance parameters—including moisture removal rate, dehumidification effectiveness, coefficient of performance, and mass transfer coefficient—are evaluated. The results indicate that the system achieves a dehumidification effectiveness of 0.95 and a moisture removal rate of 0.3 g/s. The highest dehumidification efficiency is observed between 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm. An energy saving of 14.28 % is achieved when solar energy is used for regeneration instead of conventional electrical heating. • Design and construction of a parabolic solar collector unit • Construction of solid desiccant dehumidifier & integration with solar unit • Study of performance parameters for varying timeline and rotational speed of desiccant wheel • Dehumidification effectiveness and moisture removal rate of 0.95 and 0.3 g/s respectively were achieved • Solar assisted regeneration saved 14.28 % of energy compared to electrical heating
Salins et al. (Fri,) studied this question.