Drying characteristics of pandan (Pandanus simplex Merr.) leaves using the DOST-FPRDI furnace-type dryer

Issue Date

12-2023

Abstract

This study investigated the drying characteristics of pandan (Pandanus simplex Merr.) leaves using the DOST-FPRDI's furnace-type dryer to provide an efficient drying solution. Two trial runs were conducted with different kiln drying settings. During the first trial run, narrow (6, 8, and 14 mm) pandan leaf strips with initial moisture content (MC) values ranging from 105–145% achieved an MC below 20% within 1 h. Conversely, wider leaf strips (17 and 21 mm) required a longer drying duration of approximately 4 h to reach the desired MC level. In the second trial run, with higher temperature setting, again the narrow leaf strips with initial MC ranging from 123 to 136% attained an MC below 20% within 1 h, whereas the wider ones took just 2 h to dry below 20%. Two verification runs were conducted to validate the effectiveness of the second trial run. Leaf strips of various sizes demonstrated improved drying times, with the desired MC achieved within half an hour to 1.5 h. The absorption rate of pandan leaf samples was also examined, revealing their ability to absorb moisture from the air. Within a day, the samples absorbed more than 5% moisture, highlighting the importance of not drying the leaves below the prevailing equilibrium MC of the environment. This research provides valuable insights into the drying process of pandan leaves by reducing drying time and improving the overall quality of dried leaves.

Source or Periodical Title

Philippine Journal of Science

ISSN

0031-7683

Volume

152

Issue

6A

Page

2139-2146

Document Type

Article

College

College of Arts and Sciences (CAS)

Frequency

bi-monthly

Physical Description

illustrations; graphs; references

Language

English

Subject

cuticle, equilibrium moisture content, handicraft, kiln drying, moisture absorption, pandan leaves

En – AGROVOC descriptors

PANDANUS; HANDICRAFT WEAVING; EQUILIBRIUM MOISTURE CONTENT; DRYERS; DRYING; KILNS (DRYERS); HOT AIR DRYING; LEAVES; ABSORPTION

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