Mathematical Modeling of Mass Transfer during Convective Dehydration of Brown Algae Macrocystis Pyrifera

Abstract

The aim of this research was to study and to model the drying kinetics of the brown algae Macrocystis pyrifera at 50, 60, 70, and 80°C. GAB equation showed a good fit on the sorption experimental data. Fick's diffusional model, together with Newton, Henderson-Pabis, Page, modified Page, logarithmic, and Midilli-Kukuc models were applied on the drying kinetics of the alga. The Dwe increased from 5.56 to 10.22 × 10−9 m2/s as temperature increased from 50 to 80°C. Midilli-Kukuc and logarithmic models obtained the best-fit quality for drying curves based on the statistical tests. In consequence, both models are excellent tools for estimating the drying time of this product.