Drying grains slowly can lead to contamination by mycotoxin producing molds and spoilage of the grain (Adedeji, 2018). Mycotoxins and spoilage can lead to preventable illness in those who consume the grains. Roadside drying is the typical grain drying method used in developing nations such as Nigeria. In Nigeria, cobs of corn are spread on the side of the road to utilize radiant heat from the sun, convective heat transfer from the surrounding air, and conductive heat from the road for attaining the safe moisture content for storage (Adedeji, 2018). Roadside grain drying times can vary from a few days to weeks, depending on handling, weather, and road conditions (Hanbin, n.d.).
Higher air temperatures and lower relative humidity are ideal conditions for faster drying times (Adedeji, 2018). These conditions allow for increased evaporation from the grains as well as a high capacity for the surrounding air to absorb the moisture from the grains. Prolonged periods of cool or wet weather will increase drying times (Hanbin, n.d.). Tarred road will absorb more energy than a lighter road surface, increasing its temperature, and thus decreasing drying time (Adedeji, 2018). Similarly, allowing space between the individual cobs and placing them in a single layer will decrease drying time.
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Hanbin, W. (n.d.). Research and development issues in grain postharvest problems in Asia - Overview of grain drying in China - Some imperatives in crop drying research. Retrieved September 19, 2018, from http://www.fao.org/wairdocs/x5002e/X5002e03.HTM
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