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Simulation and performance analysis of a solar-assisted venturi-plasma pasteurization system for milk.
Kimia Taki1, Bahram Hosseinzadeh Samani1
1Department of Mechanical Engineering of Biosystem, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran.
Plos One
|July 2, 2026
Summary
This study presents a novel solar-powered milk pasteurization system using cold plasma technology. The system offers a sustainable solution, reducing fossil fuel reliance by up to 32% in diverse climates.
Area of Science:
- Renewable Energy Engineering
- Food Science and Technology
- Plasma Physics
Background:
- Traditional milk pasteurization relies heavily on conventional energy sources, contributing to environmental pollution.
- Developing sustainable and energy-efficient pasteurization methods is crucial for the dairy industry, especially in remote or energy-constrained regions.
- Integrating renewable energy with advanced technologies like cold plasma offers a promising alternative.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and performance of a novel solar-powered milk pasteurization system.
- To assess the system's efficiency in diverse climatic conditions across three Iranian cities.
- To determine the potential for reducing fossil fuel dependence in milk pasteurization.
Main Methods:
- A solar-powered milk pasteurization system was designed, integrating a Venturi tube hydrodynamic reactor and liquid-phase cold plasma technology.
- The system utilizes flat-plate solar collectors and photovoltaic (PV) panels for thermal and electrical energy supply.
- Performance simulations were conducted in Shahrekord, Yazd, and Bandar-e-Abbas, considering their distinct climates.
Main Results:
- Annual efficiencies for solar collectors and PV panels reached up to 0.47 and 0.18, respectively.
- Yazd showed the highest solar energy potential (peak radiation: 8311 kWh/m2), while Shahrekord offered consistent thermal gain in spring/summer.
- The system maintained pasteurization temperatures (40±5°C) with a solar fraction between 0.036 and 0.32.
Conclusions:
- The integrated solar-powered system effectively reduces reliance on fossil fuels, increasing renewable energy contribution up to 32%.
- The technology provides a sustainable solution for milk pasteurization in diverse climatic conditions, benefiting remote and energy-limited areas.
- This approach enhances operational efficiency and environmental sustainability in the dairy sector.
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