Enhancing Paddy Rice Preservation in Small-Scale Barns: Comparative Analysis of Hot Air-Drying Techniques and Ventilation Impact on Quality and Energy Efficiency

Abstract

This investigation explores the effectiveness of hot air-drying and ambient ventilation techniques in enhancing the storage quality of Khao Dok Mali 105 paddy rice within small-scale barns in Northeast Thailand. Through comprehensive analysis of moisture and temperature dynamics, the research revealed that an optimized main air pipe system significantly reduces moisture content from 25% db to a desirable 16% db, outperforming alternative systems. Spatial assessments within the barn highlighted the importance of placement, showing that front sections achieved lower moisture levels. This underscores the need for uniform moisture distribution and temperature management to prevent quality degradation. Notably, after 84 h of drying, variations in moisture content across different barn locations emphasized the critical role of environmental control. These insights pave the way for advancing grain storage practices, focusing on strategic ventilation and environmental monitoring to ensure rice quality over time. This study not only challenges traditional methods but also offers significant practical implications for optimizing small-scale rice storage, providing a pathway towards sustainable post-harvest processing in resource-constrained environments.