Development of an asynchronous solar-powered cooker

Abstract

One reason that solar cookers have not gained widespread acceptance is because their use has proved inconvenient and impractical. Users are restricted to cooking when, and where, the sun is shining. Furthermore, the cooking temperature can not readily be raised or lowered as desired. In contrast, the Wilson solar cooker is designed to permit use under conditions characterized by low or no insulation. Furthermore, the design would facilitate users adjusting temperatures. These temperatures would reach levels as high as 258° C. In order to validate the concept, construction of one prototype was initiated. Lithium nitrate, the heat-storage material, was shown to meet the stated requirements of storing heat at a constant temperature of 258° C for up to six hours. Furthermore, this heat-storage material stored heat at temperatures above the boiling point of water, for up to 25 hours. Thus, it is expected that a meal for six people can be prepared up to six hours after charging of the thermal battery.