Otimização e simulação do processo de secagem de sememtes de melão (Cucumis melo L.) usando modelos matemáticos empiricos e difusivos.

Abstract

The objective of this research is to optimize and simulate drying processes of melon (Cucumis melo L.) inodorus seeds using empirical and diffusive mathematical models and to analyze the influence of temperature on the physical and chemical properties of the samples. Drying experiments were carried out in a circulation oven for three different temperatures (50 ° C, 60 ° C and 70 ° C) and description of drying kinetics by means of empirical and diffusive models. In addition, optimizations were made in the drying time and preparation and physicochemical characterization of the melon seed flour. According to the results obtained, it was observed that the empirical modeling that best described the drying process was exponential in two terms. Through this model, the kinetics and drying rate were described and it was found that the temperature had a significant influence on the drying time of the seeds; Regarding the description by diffusive models, two boundary conditions (first and third type) were used, the third type boundary condition described the process in a more realistic way. Through the optimization of drying time, the possibility of reduction in drying time was verified and the physical-chemical analyzes showed that all samples of melon seed flours that remained until the final drying time were in accordance with the parameter of humidity recommended by RDC n ° 263/2005, as well as the water activity levels were below the recommended (<0.6). Therefore, the results obtained in this research strengthens the use and potential of insertion of melon seeds in the industrial sector, in addition to providing the scientific community with important information regarding the description and optimization of the drying process.