Solar Drying Techniques as Sustainable Alternatives for Thermal Treatment of Agro-Industrial Waste in Sierra Leone: A Case Study at Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop

Ibrahim Massaquoi

doi:doi:10.11648/j.ajset.20251004.14

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Solar Drying Techniques as Sustainable Alternatives for Thermal Treatment of Agro-Industrial Waste in Sierra Leone: A Case Study at Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop

Ibrahim Massaquoi^*

Published in American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology (Volume 10, Issue 4)

Received: 14 September 2025 Accepted: 25 September 2025 Published: 27 October 2025

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Abstract

Background: The increasing environmental concerns and the need for sustainable waste management practices have driven research into alternative thermal treatment methods for agro-industrial waste. Solar drying presents a promising, eco-friendly solution, particularly in regions like Sierra Leone, where abundant sunlight can be harnessed. This case study explores the application of solar drying techniques as sustainable alternatives for thermal treatment of agro-industrial waste at the Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop. Methodology: The study employed a comparative experimental design, assessing the efficiency and effectiveness of solar drying against conventional thermal methods. Agro-industrial waste samples, including wood shavings and sawdust, were subjected to solar drying in specially designed solar dryers and traditional heaters. Parameters such as moisture reduction rate, drying time, energy consumption, and waste quality post-drying were measured. Data collection involved temperature monitoring, weight measurements, and qualitative assessments of dried waste. Results: Results demonstrated that solar drying significantly reduced moisture content comparable to conventional methods, with an average drying time of 48 hours versus 24 hours for thermal treatment. Notably, solar drying consumed no external fuel energy, making it more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. The dried waste maintained its structural integrity and suitability for reuse in carpentry processes. Additionally, the solar drying method produced minimal emissions, aligning with sustainability goals. Conclusion: Solar drying techniques offer a viable and sustainable alternative for thermal treatment of agro-industrial waste within the context of Sierra Leone. The method's low operational costs, environmental benefits, and preservation of waste quality suggest its potential for broader adoption in agro-industrial settings, contributing to waste valorization and sustainable development efforts. Future research should focus on optimizing solar dryer designs and scaling up to industrial levels to maximize impact.

Published in	American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology (Volume 10, Issue 4)
DOI	10.11648/j.ajset.20251004.14
Page(s)	196-202
Creative Commons	This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Copyright	Copyright © The Author(s), 2025. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Biomass, Solar Energy, Renewable Energy, Waste, Drying, Alternative, Sustainable

1. Sierra Leone Energy Matrix

Sierra Leone's energy sector is characterized by a heavy reliance on biomass and imported fossil fuels, which together dominate the country's energy consumption profile. According to the Sierra Leone Energy Sector Strategic Plan (2019-2030)

[16, 17]

, approximately 85% of the population relies on traditional biomass sources, such as firewood and charcoal, for cooking and heating purposes. This high dependence on biomass not only contributes to deforestation and environmental degradation but also poses health risks due to indoor air pollution

[25]

Electricity access remains limited, with only about 10-15% of the population having reliable access to the grid

[26]

. The national electricity grid primarily supplies urban centres, leaving rural communities to rely on off-grid solutions, which often involve using expensive and polluting diesel generators. This scenario underscores the urgent need for sustainable and affordable energy alternatives, particularly renewable energy sources.

Solar energy has emerged as a promising solution given Sierra Leone’s high solar insolation level, which average around 5.5 kWh/m²/day

[9]

. The government has initiated several programs to promote solar home systems and mini-grids, aiming to increase rural electrification

[13]

. Solar drying technologies, in particular, offer a sustainable approach to improving the preservation of agro-industrial products while reducing reliance on fossil fuels and traditional biomass.

The utilisation of solar drying techniques for managing agro-industrial waste aligns with the country's sustainable development goals. These techniques can facilitate the thermal treatment of waste, reduce environmental impacts, and promote circular economy practices

[7, 8]

. Studies in similar contexts have demonstrated the effectiveness of solar drying as an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional thermal methods

[11, 9]

Inclusively, Sierra Leone's energy matrix reveals a significant reliance on biomass and imported fossil fuels, with renewable energy sources, such as solar power, presenting viable and sustainable alternatives. Implementing solar drying techniques at both community and industrial levels could substantially contribute to waste management and energy diversification efforts, particularly in sectors such as agriculture and agro-processing.

2. Dry as a Heat Pre-Treatment of Biomass

Pre-treatment of biomass through drying was a critical step that significantly influences the efficiency of subsequent thermal conversion processes such as combustion, gasification, and pyrolysis. Drying reduces the moisture content of biomass, thereby enhancing its calorific value, improving handling properties, and minimising environmental emissions during thermal treatment as illustrated in the Figure 1 below

[13, 1]

. Solar drying techniques, in particular, have gained recognition as sustainable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional thermal drying methods, particularly in resource-limited settings such as Sierra Leone

[1, 15]

. Solar dryers harness renewable solar energy, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with biomass pre-treatment

[13]

. Recent studies have demonstrated that solar drying not only maintains the quality of biomass but also offers operational advantages, such as low operational costs and minimal environmental impact, making it a suitable option for agro-industrial waste management in developing countries

[15, 13]

. Implementing solar drying at facilities like the Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop could serve as a sustainable approach to pre-treating biomass, thereby optimising the efficiency of thermal processes and promoting environmentally responsible waste valorization.

Download: Download full-size image

Figure 1. Dry as a Heat Pre-Treatment of Biomass.

3. Biomass Drying Techniques

Effective biomass drying was a critical step in enhancing the energy efficiency and sustainability of agro-industrial waste management. Proper drying reduces moisture content, improving combustion efficiency, minimizing emissions, and extending the storage life of biomass materials

[12, 11]

. Various drying techniques have been explored globally, with solar drying emerging as a sustainable alternative to conventional thermal methods due to its renewable nature, low operational costs, and minimal environmental impact were clearly explained in Figure 2.

Download: Download full-size image

Figure 2. Diagram of Biomass Drying Technique.

3.1. Conventional Drying Methods

Download: Download full-size image

Figure 3. Diagram of Conventional Air Drying -Oven Drying,

[24]

Traditional methods include open-air sun drying, oven drying, and kiln drying. Sun drying, the most accessible in rural and semi-urban settings such as Sierra Leone, was cost-effective but often suffers from weather dependence, contamination, and uneven drying

[24, 4]

. Oven and kiln drying provide controlled environments but are energy-intensive and less sustainable, especially in resource-limited settings and how the management but effective and efficient in drying process as shown 3.

3.2. Solar Drying Techniques

The Figure 4 below illustrated the three solar drying harnesses systems. Solar drying harnesses solar energy to reduce moisture content in biomass

[14, 13]

. It was classified into direct, indirect, and hybrid systems:

1) Direct Solar Dryers: Expose biomass directly to solar radiation within transparent chambers, which is simple but may lead to contamination and uneven drying.

2) Indirect Solar Dryers: Use solar collectors to generate hot air that dries biomass indirectly, offering better control over drying conditions.

3) Hybrid Systems: Combine solar energy with auxiliary heating sources to enhance drying during periods of low insolation.

Recent advancements focus on enhancing efficiency and tailoring solutions to local conditions. For example, portable solar dryers with improved insulation and airflow control have been developed to serve small-scale agro-industrial operations

[5]

Download: Download full-size image

Figure 4. Schematic Diagram of (a) Direct, (b) Indirect and (c) Mixed-Mode Solar Dryers.

3.3. Suitability for Agro-Industrial Waste in Sierra Leone

In the context of Sierra Leone, where access to reliable electricity is limited, solar drying presents a sustainable and cost-effective solution for drying agro-industrial waste such as sawdust, husks, and other residues used in carpentry workshops

[21]

. Integrating solar drying techniques can reduce reliance on conventional fossil-fuel-based thermal treatments, thereby decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting environmental sustainability.

3.4. Challenges and Opportunities

Despite its advantages, solar drying faces challenges including weather dependency, initial setup costs, and the need for technical expertise. However, with appropriate design modifications and community engagement, solar drying can be scaled up effectively

[3, 24]

4. Drying Using Solar Energy

Solar drying presents a sustainable and energy-efficient alternative to conventional thermal drying methods, particularly in regions like Sierra Leone, where access to electricity and fossil fuels is limited. Solar dryers harness renewable solar radiation to reduce moisture content in agro-industrial waste, thereby preventing spoilage, reducing fermentation, and facilitating subsequent utilization or disposal

[11]

. This technique aligns with the principles of sustainable development by minimizing greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on non-renewable energy sources.

In the context of agro-industrial waste management at Eastern Technical University’s Carpentry Workshop, employing solar drying can significantly improve waste handling and resource recovery. The use of passive solar dryers, such as cabinet or tray dryers, offers low-cost, low-maintenance solutions suitable for institutional settings

[19]

. Active solar dryers, which incorporate fans or collectors, can accelerate drying rates, thereby further enhancing operational efficiency.

Recent studies underscore the effectiveness of solar drying systems in tropical climates similar to Sierra Leone’s. For example,

[4, 3]

demonstrated that solar dryers reduced drying time by up to 50%, compared to traditional open-air methods, while maintaining product quality. Moreover, integrating solar drying units with existing workshop infrastructure can promote decentralized waste management, reduce environmental impacts, and create opportunities for bioenergy production from residual biomass

[23]

Implementing solar drying techniques within the carpentry workshop aligns with Sierra Leone’s national policies promoting renewable energy adoption and sustainable waste management. It also encourages capacity building among students and staff in renewable energy applications, fostering innovation in the valorization of agricultural and industrial waste.

5. Drying of Agro-Industrial Wastes in Solar Dryers

The management of agro-industrial waste was a critical environmental and economic concern, especially in developing countries like Sierra Leone, where agricultural activities generate substantial quantities of by-products such as crop residues, husks, and sawdust. Proper disposal or valorization of these wastes can mitigate environmental pollution, reduce dependency on fossil fuels, and promote sustainable development. Solar drying has emerged as an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and renewable technology for drying agro-industrial wastes, thereby enhancing their usability for various applications such as biofuel production, animal feed, and soil amendment

[10]

5.1. Drying of Agro-Industrial Wastes

Drying was an essential pre-processing step as shown in Figure 5 below, that reduces moisture content, inhibits microbial activity, and extends the shelf life of agro-industrial residues. Conventional thermal drying methods often rely on fossil fuels, which are associated with high operational costs and environmental emissions

[22]

. Solar drying offers an alternative by harnessing solar energy, which was abundant and sustainable, especially in regions with high solar radiation like Sierra Leone

[18]

Download: Download full-size image

Figure 5. Drying of Agro-Industrial Wastes.

5.2. Solar Dryers and Their Application

Solar dryers are classified primarily into direct, indirect, and hybrid systems. Direct solar dryers expose the waste directly to solar radiation, whereas indirect systems utilize a solar collector to generate heated air circulated over the waste. Hybrid systems combine both methods for enhanced efficiency

[24]

. Recent advances include the development of convective and photovoltaic-assisted solar dryers tailored for agro-industrial applications

[2]

5.3. Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop

At Eastern Technical University of Sierra Leone (ETU-SL), the carpentry workshop produces considerable quantities of sawdust and wood chips as by-products. Implementing solar drying techniques in this context can facilitate the sustainable management of these residues. A pilot solar dryer system can be designed to dry wood wastes efficiently, reducing moisture content to levels suitable for briquetting or other value-added processes

[6]

. Moreover, integrating solar drying aligns with national policies promoting renewable energy and sustainable waste management which Figure 6 shew the three-sawdust collected from. from the carpentry workshop.

Download: Download full-size image

Figure 6. Sawdust with different Densities and Sizes from the ETU-SL Carpentry Workshop.

5.4. Recent Developments and Performance Evaluation

Recent studies have demonstrated that solar dryers can achieve moisture removal rates comparable to conventional methods while significantly lowering energy costs

[20]

. The performance of solar dryers depends on factors such as design efficiency, climatic conditions, and waste characteristics. Incorporating thermal insulation, selective glazing, and forced convection can enhance drying rates

[1]

6. Final Considerations

The assessment of solar drying techniques as sustainable alternatives for the thermal treatment of agro-industrial waste in Sierra Leone underscores their potential to promote environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and energy-efficient waste management practices. The case study conducted at Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop highlights several key insights: solar drying offers a renewable energy source that minimizes reliance on fossil fuels, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and aligns with Sierra Leone’s national goals for sustainable development

[27]

. Additionally, the utilization of locally available agro-industrial waste as drying material not only mitigates waste disposal challenges but also adds value to agricultural by-products, fostering a circular economy

[8]

However, challenges such as seasonal variability in solar radiation, the need for appropriate infrastructure, and technical capacity for operation and maintenance must be addressed to optimize system performance

[12]

. The integration of solar drying with existing agro-processing facilities can enhance overall efficiency and serve as a scalable model for rural communities. Capacity building and awareness campaigns are essential to promote adoption among local stakeholders, ensuring sustainability and long-term impact.

Future research should focus on optimizing solar drying technologies tailored to Sierra Leone’s climatic conditions, evaluating economic feasibility, and exploring hybrid systems that combine solar with other renewable sources. Policymakers and development partners should collaborate to develop supportive policies, funding mechanisms, and training programs that facilitate widespread adoption.

Finally, solar drying presents a promising sustainable solution for managing agro-industrial waste in Sierra Leone. Its successful implementation can contribute significantly to environmental conservation, resource efficiency, and socio-economic development within the country.

7. Conclusion

This research provides a foundation for future studies, such as long-term performance evaluations of solar drying techniques for agro-industrial waste under diverse environmental conditions specific to Sierra Leone. Additionally, further research could explore the application of these technologies across different universities or regions within Sierra Leone, as well as the potential for integrating waste materials into broader agro-industrial utilization processes.

Abbreviations

ETU-SL

Eastern Technical University of Sierra Leone

Acknowledgments

I deeply acknowledged my late parents (father and mother); may their souls rest in perpetual peace, and my beloved daughter.

Author Contributions

Ibrahim Massaquoi is the sole author. The author read and approved the final manuscript.

Funding

No funding was solicited for this work.

Data Availability Statement

The data presented in this study were available upon request from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

Conflicts of Interest

The author declares no conflicts of interest.

References

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Massaquoi, I. (2025). Solar Drying Techniques as Sustainable Alternatives for Thermal Treatment of Agro-Industrial Waste in Sierra Leone: A Case Study at Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop. American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology, 10(4), 196-202. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajset.20251004.14

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ACS Style

Massaquoi, I. Solar Drying Techniques as Sustainable Alternatives for Thermal Treatment of Agro-Industrial Waste in Sierra Leone: A Case Study at Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop. Am. J. Sci. Eng. Technol. 2025, 10(4), 196-202. doi: 10.11648/j.ajset.20251004.14

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AMA Style

Massaquoi I. Solar Drying Techniques as Sustainable Alternatives for Thermal Treatment of Agro-Industrial Waste in Sierra Leone: A Case Study at Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop. Am J Sci Eng Technol. 2025;10(4):196-202. doi: 10.11648/j.ajset.20251004.14

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@article{10.11648/j.ajset.20251004.14,
author = {Ibrahim Massaquoi},
title = {Solar Drying Techniques as Sustainable Alternatives for Thermal Treatment of Agro-Industrial Waste in Sierra Leone: A Case Study at Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop
},
journal = {American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology},
volume = {10},
number = {4},
pages = {196-202},
doi = {10.11648/j.ajset.20251004.14},
url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajset.20251004.14},
eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ajset.20251004.14},
abstract = {Background: The increasing environmental concerns and the need for sustainable waste management practices have driven research into alternative thermal treatment methods for agro-industrial waste. Solar drying presents a promising, eco-friendly solution, particularly in regions like Sierra Leone, where abundant sunlight can be harnessed. This case study explores the application of solar drying techniques as sustainable alternatives for thermal treatment of agro-industrial waste at the Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop. Methodology: The study employed a comparative experimental design, assessing the efficiency and effectiveness of solar drying against conventional thermal methods. Agro-industrial waste samples, including wood shavings and sawdust, were subjected to solar drying in specially designed solar dryers and traditional heaters. Parameters such as moisture reduction rate, drying time, energy consumption, and waste quality post-drying were measured. Data collection involved temperature monitoring, weight measurements, and qualitative assessments of dried waste. Results: Results demonstrated that solar drying significantly reduced moisture content comparable to conventional methods, with an average drying time of 48 hours versus 24 hours for thermal treatment. Notably, solar drying consumed no external fuel energy, making it more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. The dried waste maintained its structural integrity and suitability for reuse in carpentry processes. Additionally, the solar drying method produced minimal emissions, aligning with sustainability goals. Conclusion: Solar drying techniques offer a viable and sustainable alternative for thermal treatment of agro-industrial waste within the context of Sierra Leone. The method's low operational costs, environmental benefits, and preservation of waste quality suggest its potential for broader adoption in agro-industrial settings, contributing to waste valorization and sustainable development efforts. Future research should focus on optimizing solar dryer designs and scaling up to industrial levels to maximize impact.
},
year = {2025}
}

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TY  - JOUR
T1  - Solar Drying Techniques as Sustainable Alternatives for Thermal Treatment of Agro-Industrial Waste in Sierra Leone: A Case Study at Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop

AU  - Ibrahim Massaquoi
Y1  - 2025/10/27
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajset.20251004.14
DO  - 10.11648/j.ajset.20251004.14
T2  - American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology
JF  - American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology
JO  - American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology
SP  - 196
EP  - 202
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2578-8353
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajset.20251004.14
AB  - Background: The increasing environmental concerns and the need for sustainable waste management practices have driven research into alternative thermal treatment methods for agro-industrial waste. Solar drying presents a promising, eco-friendly solution, particularly in regions like Sierra Leone, where abundant sunlight can be harnessed. This case study explores the application of solar drying techniques as sustainable alternatives for thermal treatment of agro-industrial waste at the Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop. Methodology: The study employed a comparative experimental design, assessing the efficiency and effectiveness of solar drying against conventional thermal methods. Agro-industrial waste samples, including wood shavings and sawdust, were subjected to solar drying in specially designed solar dryers and traditional heaters. Parameters such as moisture reduction rate, drying time, energy consumption, and waste quality post-drying were measured. Data collection involved temperature monitoring, weight measurements, and qualitative assessments of dried waste. Results: Results demonstrated that solar drying significantly reduced moisture content comparable to conventional methods, with an average drying time of 48 hours versus 24 hours for thermal treatment. Notably, solar drying consumed no external fuel energy, making it more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. The dried waste maintained its structural integrity and suitability for reuse in carpentry processes. Additionally, the solar drying method produced minimal emissions, aligning with sustainability goals. Conclusion: Solar drying techniques offer a viable and sustainable alternative for thermal treatment of agro-industrial waste within the context of Sierra Leone. The method's low operational costs, environmental benefits, and preservation of waste quality suggest its potential for broader adoption in agro-industrial settings, contributing to waste valorization and sustainable development efforts. Future research should focus on optimizing solar dryer designs and scaling up to industrial levels to maximize impact.

VL  - 10
IS  - 4
ER  -

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Ibrahim Massaquoi

Basic & Environmental Science, Eastern Technical University, Kenema, Sierra Leone

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http://orcid.org/0009-0004-9864-7650

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Massaquoi, I. (2025). Solar Drying Techniques as Sustainable Alternatives for Thermal Treatment of Agro-Industrial Waste in Sierra Leone: A Case Study at Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop. American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology, 10(4), 196-202. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajset.20251004.14

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Massaquoi, I. Solar Drying Techniques as Sustainable Alternatives for Thermal Treatment of Agro-Industrial Waste in Sierra Leone: A Case Study at Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop. Am. J. Sci. Eng. Technol. 2025, 10(4), 196-202. doi: 10.11648/j.ajset.20251004.14

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Massaquoi I. Solar Drying Techniques as Sustainable Alternatives for Thermal Treatment of Agro-Industrial Waste in Sierra Leone: A Case Study at Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop. Am J Sci Eng Technol. 2025;10(4):196-202. doi: 10.11648/j.ajset.20251004.14

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Copy | Download

TY  - JOUR
T1  - Solar Drying Techniques as Sustainable Alternatives for Thermal Treatment of Agro-Industrial Waste in Sierra Leone: A Case Study at Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop

AU  - Ibrahim Massaquoi
Y1  - 2025/10/27
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajset.20251004.14
DO  - 10.11648/j.ajset.20251004.14
T2  - American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology
JF  - American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology
JO  - American Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology
SP  - 196
EP  - 202
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2578-8353
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajset.20251004.14
AB  - Background: The increasing environmental concerns and the need for sustainable waste management practices have driven research into alternative thermal treatment methods for agro-industrial waste. Solar drying presents a promising, eco-friendly solution, particularly in regions like Sierra Leone, where abundant sunlight can be harnessed. This case study explores the application of solar drying techniques as sustainable alternatives for thermal treatment of agro-industrial waste at the Eastern Technical University Carpentry Workshop. Methodology: The study employed a comparative experimental design, assessing the efficiency and effectiveness of solar drying against conventional thermal methods. Agro-industrial waste samples, including wood shavings and sawdust, were subjected to solar drying in specially designed solar dryers and traditional heaters. Parameters such as moisture reduction rate, drying time, energy consumption, and waste quality post-drying were measured. Data collection involved temperature monitoring, weight measurements, and qualitative assessments of dried waste. Results: Results demonstrated that solar drying significantly reduced moisture content comparable to conventional methods, with an average drying time of 48 hours versus 24 hours for thermal treatment. Notably, solar drying consumed no external fuel energy, making it more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. The dried waste maintained its structural integrity and suitability for reuse in carpentry processes. Additionally, the solar drying method produced minimal emissions, aligning with sustainability goals. Conclusion: Solar drying techniques offer a viable and sustainable alternative for thermal treatment of agro-industrial waste within the context of Sierra Leone. The method's low operational costs, environmental benefits, and preservation of waste quality suggest its potential for broader adoption in agro-industrial settings, contributing to waste valorization and sustainable development efforts. Future research should focus on optimizing solar dryer designs and scaling up to industrial levels to maximize impact.

VL  - 10
IS  - 4
ER  -

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