Aloe vera L. powder processing using spray drying method for coating material of agriculture products

Abstract

Alternatives that can be done to reduce the damage to agricultural products after harvest is the application of coatings. The coating produces a film on the surface of the fruit to protect the product from environmental influences that cause damage. Besides gel form, aloe vera can be processed in the form of powder, which has advantages compared to gel form. The research purpose was to study the making of aloe vera powder using a spray drying method with the treatment of drying temperature and determine the best process base on the characteristic of powder solution and form of film as a coating result. Aloe vera powder making using a spray dryer with the outlet temperature of 60 °C and 80 °C, determine the best drying temperature base on the characteristics of powder solution and film formed. Films made from aloe vera powder solution with a concentration of 10%, 15%, and 20%. The result of this research showed that the powder produced by a temperature of 60 °C was better than that done of 80 °C with the yield produced was 2.72%, and the pH value was 3.512. While for making the best film was obtained from the concentration of 20% powder solution with a viscosity value of 4.126 mPa.s, film thickness 0.321 mm, L value of films color 87.632, film water content 12%, film solubility 99%, and water vapor transmission rate 6.540 g/hour.m2.