Werner Muhlbauer

Grain Drying, Cooling and Storage: Theory, Technology, and Applications is an authoritative and comprehensive handbook addressing the critical postharvest processes of grain drying, handling, storage, and cooling. With global food security increasingly challenged by climate change, energy scarcity, and geopolitical conflicts, efficient and sustainable grain preservation technologies have never been more essential. This book responds to the urgent need for updated, practical knowledge that supports reducing postharvest losses, maintaining grain quality, and optimizing energy use across diverse agricultural systems worldwide. The handbook covers both theoretical foundations and practical applications, integrating the latest research and innovations in drying kinetics, energy-efficient technologies, and quality preservation. It uniquely includes detailed models for single grain and bulk drying, novel optimization strategies, and extensive evaluations of equipment such as conveyors, cleaning machines, burners, furnaces, and various dryer types. Special attention is given to emerging renewable energy solutions and technologies suited for developing countries and smallholder farms, bridging the gap between scientific advances and real-world implementation. The inclusion of grain cooling and comprehensive storage methods further enhances its value as a complete postharvest resource. Grain Drying, Cooling and Storage: Theory, Technology, and Applications empowers engineers, researchers, and industry professionals in the food industry with practical guidelines, technical data, and quality-focused strategies to improve grain handling processes. By combining scientific rigor with hands-on insights, the book aids in maximizing drying efficiency, reducing energy consumption, preserving grain quality, and ensuring food safety. Its global perspective and extensive coverage make it an indispensable reference for anyone involved in grain production, processing, and storage, supporting sustainable agriculture and food security worldwide.

Drying Atlas: Drying Kinetics and Quality of Agricultural Products provides, in a condensed and systematic way, specific insights on the drying-relevant properties and coefficients of over 40 agricultural products. It also presents information about the production methods that influence the drying process, the quality of the dried product, the official quality standards of the products, and the design principles and operating characteristics of drying systems that are widely used in the postharvest processing and food industry. Available books on drying technology mainly focus on drying theory and simulation of drying processes. This book offers systematic information on the impact of other important parameters, such as relative humidity, air flow rate, mechanical, thermal and chemical pre-treatment, and drying mode for specific products. It is a unique and valuable reference for scientists and engineers who want to focus on industrial drying applications and dryers, as well as graduate and post-graduate students in postharvest technology and drying.