Agricultural Engineering in the Tropics and Subtropics

Main research topics

Against the background of the increasing shortage of global resources, research and teaching in the field of agricultural engineering in the tropics and subtropics focuses on the efficient use of water, energy and agricultural resources. The emphasis lies on the development of resource-conserving irrigation technologies as well as the use of renewable energies. Since post-harvest processes - such as drying - are particularly energy-intensive, this sector forms a special research focus.

Research is carried out fundamentally in an interdisciplinary network with complementary departments and external partners from industry and science. In order to ensure a transfer of knowledge, the basic knowledge gained is adapted to the requirements of practice in applied research. The feedback process with the practice ensures that basic research is directed towards relevant and current problems.

Methodological competencies are in the areas of:

  • Non-destructive measurement methods for in situ detection of physiological conditions (drought stress, fruit ripening)
  • Systematic design (VDI 2221) and computer aided engineering (CAE software SolidWorks)
  • Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD software FLUENT)
  • Model-based control strategies for process control during drying and storage

 

 

Irrigation Technology

    • Traditional irrigation by the farmer
    • Micro-sprinkler irrigation
    • Partial root zone drying
    • Water and drought stress monitoring
    • Precision irrigation

    Renewable Energy

    Research focuses on the use of biogenic fuels and the implementation of photovoltaic, solar thermal and hydrogen-based technologies to secure heat and power supply in the rural tropics and subtropics. Both conventional and highly innovative technologies are made available for the sustainable solution of problems in various areas of daily use, from individual households to medium-sized companies. Isolated solutions and the direct use of electricity and process heat from renewable energy sources to optimize agricultural methods (irrigation) and post-harvest processes (drying, cooling) are particularly in focus

    Postharvest Technologies

    • Drying of fruits, herbs and medicinal plants
    • Solar drying
    • Hyperspectral imaging
    • Laser light scattering