Journal of Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Open AccessUtilization of A Parabolic Solar Cooker for the Melting and Preparation of Paraffin Wax Based Skin Treatment in Ilorin, Kwara State
Authors: Dr. Olaore Kayode Olatunde, Prof Aderemi Babatunde Alabi.
Abstract
This study investigates the utilization of solar energy through a parabolic solar cooking system, specifically designed to heat and melt various substances, including paraffin wax. Solar cooking, a practice rooted in ancient traditions, serves as a viable method for food preparation and industrial applications by offering a sustainable alternative to conventional heating methods, which pose health and environmental risks. The primary objective of this research is to harness and concentrate solar radiation for the effective heating and melting of paraffin wax, intended for skin treatment, within the meteorological conditions of Kwara State. We employed a parabolic solar cooker to achieve this objective, utilizing mineral oil as a lubricant during the melting process. The results indicated a peak solar radiation of 1216.7 W/m2, an ambient temperature reaching 48.7 oC, and a maximum fluid temperature of 49.6 oC. Furthermore, the cooker demonstrated a cover temperature of 59.6 oC, a side temperature of 56.4 oC, an absorber plate temperature of 94.6 oC, and an air gap temperature of 70.4 oC. The parabolic solar cooker successfully melted paraffin wax within one hour, and various thermal performance metrics—including average cooking power, standard cooking power, and cooker efficiency—were thoroughly evaluated. This research highlights the effectiveness of solar cooking systems in providing a safe, renewable energy solution for both domestic and industrial applications.
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