Low-cost solar dryers are an alternative for democratizing access to this technology. This work aimed to design a low-cost solar dryer and to evaluate its viability by modeling the drying kinetics of araticum (Annona crassiflora Mart.). The construction of the prototype used low-cost materials. The araticum drying occurred until the samples reached equilibrium moisture. The data were processed to adapt the kinetic models. The araticum pulp, after 420 min of drying, had a constant mass with 2.67% ± 0.28% of moisture. The Midilli, Kucuk & Yapar model was the evaluated model that best fit the drying curve. It was possible to determine three diffusion coefficients associated with the process. It was inferred that the built dryer and the climatic conditions were efficient for drying the product and demanded little expense for its construction. The tested empirical models were able to accurately describe the solar drying of this fruit.

Novelty impact statement

The designed dryer showed efficacy in the drying process of araticum pulp. It was possible to mathematically model the solar drying process kinetics for araticum. The equipment requests low investment and can democratize access to the drying process.