Drying, Aeration, and Storage of Agricultural Products

Psychrometry is a broad field, where environmental conditions can be addressed in different ways. Here, it is presented as a tool for drying, aerating, and storing agricultural products in an economical way. It is not enough to know the amount of air in use; knowing its characteristics allows you to choose whether it can be used in that way, or whether it is more advantageous to heat the air, or even mix it with another type of air. Drying agricultural products can consume large amounts of energy, especially when heating the air. Drying these products using air in its natural conditions is a little-known art in Brazil. Therefore, before engaging in drying itself, it is necessary to know how to handle air with different characteristics, associated with being aware of the most recommended amount, in order to carry out economic activities. There are always some questions: should the air be heated? To what extent? Why not use it in its natural conditions?