Comparative analysis of LPG and rice husk biomass as energy sources for drying food materials for small farmers

Drying is a post-harvest process with high energy requirements; choosing an energy source a crucial factor, especially for smallholder farmers. This study aims to analyze the comparative use of LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) and rice husk biomass as energy sources for drying food through a literature review. The study results show that LPG has higher energy efficiency, faster drying times, and produces more uniform product quality due to stable temperature control. Conversely, rice husk has lower efficiency and longer drying times, but excels in terms of very low operational costs, abundant availability, and its renewable nature. The use of rice husks also has the potential to increase the added value of agricultural waste and support energy independence in rural areas. Overall, LPG is superior from a technical perspective, while rice husks are superior from an economic and sustainability perspective. Therefore, the choice of energy source needs to be tailored to local farmer conditions, with the potential for developing hybrid systems to optimize efficiency and costs.