Analisis Efisiensi Transfer Energi Radiasi Matahari Pada Pengeringan Cabai Menggunakan Solar Dryer Berdasarkan Jenis Kolektor Penutup

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the drying efficiency of chili using a solar dryer with variations in collector cover materials, namely clear glass, acrylic, and polycarbonate, compared to the conventional drying method. The study used a true experimental design with a Pretest-Posttest Control Group Design, conducted at the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, University of Jember, from April 2 to April 4, 2026. The results indicated that the solar dryer with a clear glass cover achieved the highest thermal performance with a peak temperature of 64.45°C and the highest drying efficiency of 12.360%. This performance outperformed acrylic (12.140%) and polycarbonate (11.542%), while the conventional method only reached an efficiency of 7.799%. The high transmissivity of clear glass allowed for maximum heat accumulation through the greenhouse effect, effectively reducing the chili mass from 500 grams to 107 grams within 18 hours. In conclusion, clear glass is the most optimal collector cover material for enhancing solar drying efficiency for chili.