Optimization of Heat Pump Drying Process for Schefflera heptaphylla Leaves by the Response Surface Methodology

Abstract

Background: Schefflera heptaphylla is a species of plant living in the forest, containing numerous bioactive compounds beneficial for human health. The efficient extraction of these bioactive compounds from the plant while minimizing losses is a currently highlighted issue. Methods: In this research, the impact of three variables: drying time (min), drying air velocity (m/s) and drying air temperature (oC) on the reactions, including loss of total phenolic (TPCL), total flavonoid content loss (TFCL) and moisture content (MC) investigation of Schefflera heptaphylla leaves was conducted using the central complex design (CCD) within the framework of the methodology reaction surface method (RSM). Result: The optimal conditions obtained from the response surface method were 48°C, 1.9 m/s and 600 min. The experimental values at the optimal conditions of TPCL, TFCL and MC are 17.22±0.20%, 14.83±0.15% and 8.47±0.12%, respectively. Crude fiber content, moisture content, total ash and total fat content of raw materials have been identified.