Moisture Content Of Samples Research Articles

The effect of cutting speed on the generation of bituminous coal dust: Experimental and theoretical discussion

To address the issue of an unclear mechanism for dust generation, an experiment was conducted to investigate the dust generation and migration under varying cutting speeds of a single cutting tooth. The findings indicate that coal dust production involves a rapid physical transformation process comprising four stages: coal body deformation, formation of the crushing zone, stress release, and collapse of fractured material. Increasing the cutting speed results in a continuous rise in both the total dust production rate and the respiratory dust rate. At a cutting speed of 10 mm/s, the RF coal sample exhibited a total dust production rate of 32.41 g/t, while the HP coal sample had a total dust production rate of 93.10 g/t. The moisture content of the coal samples exhibited a negative correlation with the total dust production rate, whereas the fixed carbon content and porosity showed a positive correlation with this rate. However, the size of the porosity had no significant impact on the production rates of respirable dust and PM2.5 dust. These research findings enhance the understanding of the dust production mechanism during coal and rock cutting, providing guidance for dust control at the origin.

Developing some models to predict the uniaxial compressive strength of various sedimentary rocks (Case studies: Large dam site and mine in Southeast China)

Direct determination of uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) is time-consuming, expensive, and challenging. Therefore, this study aims to indirectly predict UCS using statistical and machine learning methods. First, laboratory measurements were conducted to determine carbonate percentage, water absorption percentage, moisture content, porosity percentage, P-wave velocity, and UCS of sandstone, dolomite, dolomitic limestone, marl limestone, and limestone samples. Subsequently, various models were established to predict UCS using multivariate linear regression (MVLR), random forest regression (RFR), Gaussian process regression (GPR) based on squared exponential kernel function, and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). The influence of Jurassic limestone texture on physical and mechanical properties in stable and unstable slopes in the Three Gorges Dam site and reservoir (TGDSR) showed that the percentage of mudstone texture in unstable slopes is higher than in stable slopes. The UCS, density, compressional wave velocity, and percentage of carbonate in unstable slopes is less than stable slopes. The results indicated that the average measured UCS is 60.60 MPa. Moreover, the average predicted UCS based on the three intelligent methods was 60.55 MPa. The percentage difference between the measured and predicted UCS was −0.09 %, demonstrating that the average error of the three employed methods is less than one percent, highlighting the high accuracy of these methods in estimating rock UCS. Notably, based on error level, Taylor diagram, Wilmot agreement index (WAI), A10 and A20 indices, Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), and PM (performance metric) criteria the RFR exhibited superior precision (R2=99 %, and RMSE= 0.06 MPa) compared to the other used methods. The Kruskal-Wallis test (KWT) results showed that there is no significant difference between the measured and predicted values.

Heat transfer-deformation characteristics and fracture damage analysis during LN2 freeze-thaw process in different rank coals

Exploring the heat transfer and deformation characteristics of coal bodies of different coal ranks during the freeze-thaw process is of significant importance for analyzing the fracture mechanism under the effect of liquid nitrogen (LN2). This experiment targets lignite, bituminite, and anthracite under both saturated and dry conditions. A real-time temperature-strain monitoring system was employed to observe the heat transfer and deformation characteristics of coal samples with different ranks throughout the freeze-thaw cycle. Additionally, a nuclear magnetic resonance system was utilized to examine the characteristics of pore damage before and after fracturing. The findings reveal: (1) During the freeze-thaw process, the absolute value of the temperature evolution rate for dry coal samples shows a negative correlation with coal rank, indicating a close link between temperature diffusion and intrinsic coal properties like oxygen content and porosity. (2) For saturated coal samples, the absolute value of the temperature change rate during freezing decreases as the coal rank increases, with the opposite trend observed during thawing. The phase change effect of water in fractures during freezing can enhance internal temperature diffusion in the coal body, while it acts as an inhibitor during thawing. (3) Based on the trend of strain fluctuations, the coal body deformation process during the freeze-thaw cycle can be segmented into seven stages, summarizing the general mechanisms of deformation failure. (4) Under saturated conditions, the amplitude of elastic deformation for each sample is negatively correlated with coal rank, with the sequence for dry coal samples being bituminite > anthracite > lignite. (5) The formation of a sealed space at the beginning of freezing is identified as a necessary condition for deformation during the freeze-thaw process, with the formation and strength of the sealed space depending on the temperature diffusion rate, moisture content, and inherent properties of the coal sample.

Three-phase and gel models of soils in the analysis of experimental results

It is common to consider the results of experiments in soil physics from the position of a three-phase soil model. Along with the three-phase, there is a gel model of soils. The models are based on different principles: in the three–phase model – the constancy of the solid phase and the mobility of the liquid, in the gel model – the ability of soil gels to swell, harden and reduce the mobility of water. The purpose of the work is to assess the applicability of using three–phase and gel soil models to analyze the results of studying some physical properties of soils. The studies were carried out on the soils of the zonal series: sod-podzolic, gray forest, chernozem, chestnut soil. The following methods were used in the work: vibration viscometry, laser diffractometry, electrical resistance of soils. When studying the physical properties of soils, unexpected results were obtained. Firstly, the curve of the influence of the samples moisture content on the viscosity of the pastes prepared from them reached a maximum in the area of the moisture content of the point of limited availability of water (PLAW). Secondly, with increased mechanical action on soil pastes, the particle size in them did not decrease, but increased. Thirdly, the dependence of the electrical resistance of soils on their humidity maintains a uniform course in the area of PLAW. Although at this humidity, the continuous framework of the liquid phase in soils disappears, providing moisture and electrical conductivity. Fourth, moist soils dry out in a desiccator over water. It is not possible to explain these results from the standpoint of the three-phase soil model generally accepted in soil science. Therefore, a gel model of soils was used to analyze the results, which made it possible to explain all the results obtained.

Influence on quality indicators and shelf life of radiation treated poultry meat

Radiation treatment has emerged as a promising technology in food processing, especially for enhancing safety and extending shelf life of poultry meat. The purpose of the study was to ensure the safety and extend the shelf life of poultry exposed to gamma radiation. Radiation doses of 2 kGy, 4 kGy, 6 kGy, 8 kGy were used during irradiation, sensory evaluation and physico-chemical analyzes were carried out, comparative characteristics of irradiated and non-irradiated poultry meat samples were presented. The results showed that the shelf life of poultry meat irradiated at a temperature of 0+2℃ was extended up to 14 days. The article analyzes the effect of gamma rays on fat and moisture, it is shown that the moisture content of poultry meat decreases with an increase in the dose of radiation, at a dose of 8 kg it decreased by 12% in 14 days. It was shown that moisture content of poultry meat samples increased on day 5, after which destruction occurred. It was also shown that the fatty acid content of irradiated poultry meat samples at doses of 6 kGy and 8 kGy decreases with the extension of the storage period. Among all the tested radiation doses, 2kGy, 4kGy showed to be more effective compared to non-irradiated poultry meat with better performance in physico-chemical analysis, be it sensory evaluation. Understanding the effects of radiation on poultry is critical to ensuring consumer safety and maintaining product quality throughout the supply chain.

Intelligent dielectric method for evaluating some qualitative characteristics of date fruit

This study aimed to develop an intelligent capacitive system to measure the moisture content of date fruit and to recognize fruit characteristics, such as variety, size, and ripeness. A cost-effective and fast non-contact measurement solution using the capacitive method was employed to create a platform with a variable oscillator to measure the dielectric properties of date fruit after harvest. Different date varieties, namely Zahedi, Ghasb, Mazafati and Medjool, representing dry, semi-dry and wet date fruit, respectively, were selected to model and calibrate the proposed system. Samples of date fruit of each variety were selected at three different ripening stages (Khalal, Rutab and Tamr), ranging from high to low moisture content. Additionally, five distinct moisture contents were determined using the oven method. The moisture content of the date fruit samples ranged from 8.6 % to 86.9 % owing to the selection of four varieties, three ripening stages and five stepwise thermal treatments. After acquiring electronic information, 80 % of the dataset was allocated for training purposes, while the remaining 20 % was reserved for evaluating the final regression model. The results showed that of all the trained machine learning models, Support Vector Regression (SVR) had the highest potential for predicting moisture content at the specified frequencies. The SVR model was fine-tuned by fitting 1824 combinations of hyperparameters over 6 folds. The tuned model's prediction for 20 % of the assigned test data resulted in a coefficient of determination of 88 % compared to the actual moisture content, with a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 9.4 %. Furthermore, the dielectric-based system classified the ripening stages using a Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) model, achieving F1 scores of 87 %, 60 % and 68 % for the Khalal, Rutab and Tamr stages, respectively. The MLP regression model also predicted the geometric mean of the date fruit with a coefficient of determination of 0.82 and an RMSE of 3.05 mm.

Recovery and characterization of cellulose microfibers from fallen leaves and evaluation of their potential as reinforcement agents for production of new biodegradable packaging materials

AbstractIn the present work, cellulose microfibers (CMFs) isolated from fallen autumn leaves of cherry plum (Prunus cerasifera pissardii nigra), white mulberry (Morus alba) and plane (Platanus orientalis) trees were characterized and used as reinforcement agents in sodium alginate‐based biodegradable films. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) characterization showed that the CMFs were successfully isolated from the leaves with high purity. The extracted CMFs had a particle size ranging from 321.20 nm to 632.26 nm and negative zeta potential values (−27.33 to −21.40). The extraction yield of CMFs ranged from 19.53% to 26.00%. Incorporation of the leaf‐derived CMFs into sodium alginate based films (1%, w:w) increased their tensile strength (from 153.73 to 187.78 MPa) and elongation at break values (from 105.97% to 89.90%) and significantly decreased oxygen (from 121.46 to 75.56 meq kg‐1) and water vapor permeabilities (from 2.36 to 1.60 g mm h−1 m−2 kPa−1)(p < 0.05). Furthermore, the supplementation of CMFs into the biopolymer matrix had no significant effect on the color (L*: 85.35–85.67; a*: −0.75‐0.71; b*: 4.23–4.94) and moisture content (44.64–48.42%) of the film samples, although the thickness increased (40.33–94.66 μm). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed that CMFs were homogeneously dispersed in the film matrix. Overall, this study confirms that fallen cherry plum, white mulberry, and plane leaves are valuable sources of CMFs which could be used in the manufacturing of biodegradable nanocomposite films as reinforcement agents.

Comparative Evaluation of the Proximate Composition and Amino Acid Profile in Fresh and Traditionally Sun-dried Fish Species, Puntius sophore (Hamilton, 1822) and Amblypharyngodon mola (Hamilton, 1822)

Fish is one of the most widely consumed sources of animal protein in the world. However, they are subjected to countless post-harvest changes, so technologies such as sun-drying are employed to preserve fish for a longer time. Currently, sun-dried fish also have a major place in terms of nutrients alongside fresh fish. The present study has been conducted to determine the proximate composition and amino acid content of fish species namely, Puntius sophore (Puthi), and Amblypharyngodon mola (Moa) in fresh and sun-dried conditions to enunciate the nutritional benefits of consuming sun-dried fishes together with fresh fishes. During the study period, fresh fish samples collected were divided into two batches. In one batch all the analyses were carried out under fresh conditions. In the corresponding batch, all the tests were carried out in sun-dried conditions. Proximate composition and amino acid analysis were carried out as per the guidelines of AOAC (2015). The moisture, crude protein, crude fat, ash, and carbohydrate content of the fresh and sun-dried P. sophore and A. mola revealed significantly higher moisture content in the fresh fish samples than in the sun-dried samples. Significantly higher crude protein, crude fat, ash, and carbohydrate contents were obtained in the sun-dried samples compared to the samples in fresh condition. The Essential Amino Acid (EAA) predominant in fresh and sun-dried samples of both the species were found to be Lysine and Histidine respectively. The predominant Non-essential Amino Acid (NEAA) in fresh and sun-dried samples of both species was Glutamic acid. The analysis of nutritional parameters reveals that sun-dried fish can provide comparable nutrition to fresh fish. This study is therefore designed to promote the consumption of sun-dried fish among a broader segment of society, highlighting its dietary significance.

Development of recipescooked sausage products enriched with chlorella

The meat industry is constantly undergoing transformations and moves in accordance with global trends and basic consumer requests.Accordingly, there is a problem of increasing the nutritional and biological value of common food products, in particular cooked sausages. Development of health facilitiesof meat products enriched with plant components is the main goal that arose during the performance of this work. Improvement of the recipe of cooked sausage products due to the use of available chlorella seaweedvaluablea source of antioxidants, dietary fiber, essential amino acids, vitamins, polyunsaturated fatty acids and minerals is a promising solution. The difference between the developed minced meat recipe and the control is the use of chlorella, the replacement of lard, which is traditionally used in similar recipes, with linseed and olive oils, and the complete replacement of sodium nitrite with ascorbic acid. Comparative studies were performed using three different formulations containing 1% chlorella hydrated with water and milk whey in a ratio of 1:5 for 20 minutes at a temperature of 40º C. During the work, organoleptic (appearance, color, texture, taste and smell) and physical and chemical research methods (moisture, fat, protein, salt content). It was shown that the experimental samples of minced meat contained protein in amounts of 13.51% for sample 3; 12.77% for sample 2 and 12.36% for sample 1. The moisture content of the experimental samples exceeds the control by 2.86% for sample 3, by 1.86% for sample 2, and by 0.69% for sample 1. According to the mass fraction of fat, all samples are within the normal range and amount to less than 30%, which correspondsthe national standard for this type of product. Modification of the recipe using chlorella, linseed and olive oil differs from the control sample, which is reflected in the results of the organoleptic evaluation. According to the results of comprehensive studies, experimental formulation sample 3 can be recommended for implementation.

Influence of various corn syrup types on the quality and sensory properties of gelatin-based jelly confectionery

Jelly candies are soft confectionery products primarily composed of sucrose, corn syrup and gelling agents. This study investigates the impact of six different corn syrup, all used at constant amount (46.22%), on the physicochemical (moisture content, pH, Colour), texture and sensory properties of gelatin-based jelly samples. The Moisture content, pH, colour, and texture properties of samples were analysed at 0th, 15th, 30th, 45th, and 60th day during storage. Before storage moisture content of the candiesranged from21.03 to 22.57% whereas after 60 days, it was found between 19.31 and 20.72%. Sample JF42 exhibited the least moisture rate loss. The type of corn syrup did not significantly affect the pH of the samples. Samples with higher fructose content in the corn syrup had the lowest hardness, whereas the sample with the highest maltose content exhibited the highest hardness. Changes in gumminess and chewiness paralleled variations in hardness results. Hardness and gumminess were found suitable to follow up gelatin-based samples storage using the zero-order kinetics modelling. Corn syrups with high fructose amounts intensified the redness, while those with high glucose levels led to yellowness in the candies. In sensory evaluation, products made with G40, G60, and M50 corn syrups received higher general Understanding how various types of corn syrup impact the candies quality helps producers optimize their formulation. This information enables producers to mitigate quality deterioration during storage, ensuring that their candies maintain at the desired level and appeal to consumers.

Effect of foaming and drying temperature on the physical, chemical, and functional properties of egg white powders produced using refractance window drying

This study investigated the effect of drying form (natural and foamed) and temperature (50–100 °C) on the physical, chemical, and functional properties of egg white powder produced using refractance window drying. The egg whites were dried in 4-55 min, depending on the drying conditions. On the one hand, the drying form was effective on the color properties, densities (bulk, tapped, or particle), Carr index, Hausner ratio, porosity, hygroscopicity, solubility, and foaming capacity of egg white powders. On the other hand, the drying temperature was effective for all analyzed properties except hygroscopicity, moisture content, and water activity of samples. The study demonstrated that foaming before refractance window drying enhances the color of the egg white powders and provides better solubility and foaming capacity. However, it has a detrimental effect on the flow properties of the powders evaluated according to the Carr index and Hausner ratio. Increasing the drying temperature until a certain extent (80 °C) generally provided better color, protein content, surface hydrophobicity, and functional properties. The study shows that egg powders suitable for different purposes (better foaming, low protein denaturation, better gelling, etc.) can be obtained if the drying form and temperature conditions are fine-tuned.

The Effects of Steeping Temperature Variations on the Production of Pap (Akamu)

The effect of temperature variation on the nutritional quality of pap was studied using (AOCS) American Oil Chemists Standard Method. Pap ingredients were purchased from Amassoma ultramodern market, Bayelsa State. A thermometer was used to record an initial temperature of 80°C (Group A), 50°C (Group B) and 25°C a room temperature (Group C). After discarding the water, the cereal grains were carefully and independently cleaned with fresh water. An attrition mill was used to grind the wet grains, and the paste produced was mixed with 1000ml of purified water. A muslin cloth was used to filter the mixture’s slurry. After allowing the filter to stand for a full day, the supernatant was disposed of. In order to allow additional water to drain off, the newly created pap was wrapped inside a muslin cloth and left to stand for the following 12 hours. The proximate composition of the pap was investigated at the varying steeping temperatures. From the result it shows that the proximate composition of pap can vary depending on the steeping temperature used, it shows that the moisture content ranged from 25.51-27-52%, protein ranged from 7.79%-8.15, fibre ranged from 2.16% – 2.24%, lipid content ranged from 8.22%–13.10%, carbohydrate ranged from 48.16% – 50.60% as the steeping temperatures increased from 25-100°C. The study revealed that the steeping temperatures had an impact on the pH, moisture, fiber, and carbohydrate contents of the papa samples, but not on the lipid, protein, mineral, or nitrogen contents, which stayed mostly unchanged. In order to preserve the nutritious value of the food, it is advised that pap be produced and steeped at a lower temperature.

Investigation of Desiccation Cracking Behavior of Waste Carbon Fiber–Reinforced Clay Material

Carbon fiber is a common waste building material, but its effect on the drying and cracking properties of clay materials is unknown. In this paper, crack rate and fractal dimension are used to characterize the influence of waste carbon fiber materials on the development of soil cracking. With the rise in carbon fiber content to 0.2%, 0.4% and 0.6%, the crack rate of soil cracking decreased by 7.9%, 17.3% and 23.3%, respectively, while the fractal dimension of soil cracking decreased by 2.4%, 8.7% and 21.2%, respectively. Accordingly, the critical moisture content of the soil samples increased by 33.2%, 110% and 151%, and the time of the soil constant evaporation stage decreased by 5.1%, 13.8% and 34.5%, respectively. When carbon fiber is combined with soil, carbon fiber will increase the interface bonding strength, friction and interlocking force, effectively inhibiting the cracking of soil, and it provides a channel for water transport in the soil in the early stage.

Impact of curdlan on quality and sensory attributes of canned dodol made from glutinous rice flour

The effects of curdlan concentrations (0, 3, 5, and 7%) on the physical, textural, and sensorial properties of canned dodol (Candol) were investigated. The incorporation of curdlan in canned dodol significantly influenced several attributes of the product, including pH, total soluble solids (TSS), water activity (aw), moisture content, colour, texture, and microstructure. Curdlan decreased pH level and increased TSS level, while decreasing the moisture content and aw in certain samples. It also impacted the texture of dodol, with one sample (Candol-5) showing a texture similar to commercially available dodol. Additionally, microstructural differences were observed, with Candol-5 exhibiting the smallest pores and a more compact gel structure. Sensory panellists preferred the texture of Candol-5 over Candol-0, and its sensory rating was more similar to that of the commercial dodol, with no significant differences observed. In summary, curdlan could be a beneficial ingredient for improving the quality and acceptability of canned dodol, offering valuable insights for the development of innovative dodol products in the future.

Phytochemical and Mineral contents of Croton Sparsiflorus in Bahawalpur

Although a huge quantity of plants has been studied for their medicinal importance, there is still a large number of plant species that have never been subjected to systematic phytochemical studies, proximate or mineral contents analysis. In this study, a phytochemical analysis, proximate, and mineral contents investigations have been carried out on indigenous medicinal plant of Pakistan namely Croton sparsiflorus Morong (syn. Croton bonplandianum Baill.) The proximate and phytochemical compositions of Croton sparsiflorus were investigated following standard procedures. The mineral composition was determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometer and a flame photometer. The result indicated the healthy mineral level of Croton sparsiflorus. It showed a considerable amount of Zinc (49.2 ppm), Iron (333.6 ppm), Manganese (7.6 ppm), and Copper (23.14 ppm). Phytochemical studies of Croton sparsiflorus confirmed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, phenols, proline, and carbohydrates in varying concentrations. The proximate analysis showed that the dry contents of Croton sparsiflorus were 98.95%. The moisture content in the dry sample was found to be 0.73%. The crude protein (crude protein included both true protein and nonprotein nitrogen) content was 10.63%. This study is another confirmation of the earlier stated facts that this plant is a good source for bio-prospecting. The study further revealed that the plant, Croton sparsiflorus used has substantiated to be very essential in medical research and development, because of the phytochemicals that are contemporaneous and can be utilized in the medical field. Twigs, leaves, roots, stem, and inflorescence of Croton sparsiflorus seem to have good nutritious, and suitable mineral elements worth crucial to preserve good well-being.

Evaluation of Glycemic Index of Selected Black Rice Cultivars in Bangladesh

The Glycemic Index (GI) helps consumers select foods with a low GI, which can reduce the risk of diabetes. An in vivo investigation was conducted to screen for optimal glycemic index (GI) content rice varieties suitable for regular diets, particularly for individuals managing diabetes mellitus. Ten healthy volunteers with no diabetes participated in the study, consuming glucose as a reference food and various rice cultivars after overnight fasting. The rice cultivars included black rice from Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, along with ACI rice serving as the control. Proximate analysis assessed moisture, fat, fiber, protein, ash, and carbohydrate content in all rice samples. Amylose content (%) was determined using spectrophotometric analysis following alcoholic-alkaline gelatinization, acidification, and iodine mixing. The results indicated GI values of 67.23, 54.19, 52.64, and 53.50, and amylose content (%) of 19.42, 21.77, 28.50, and 27.52 for Indonesia line, Philippines line, Vietnam line, and ACI rice, respectively. An inverse relationship between GI levels and amylose content was observed, suggesting a potential mechanism for regulating postprandial blood glucose levels. Based on the findings, the Philippines line and Vietnam line were classified as low-GI rice varieties, indicating their suitability for regular consumption by individuals with diabetes mellitus or without the condition. These results underscore the importance of selecting appropriate rice varieties to manage glycemic response effectively in dietary management strategies for diabetes mellitus. Further research is warranted to explore the underlying mechanisms and to validate these findings in larger cohorts. J Bangladesh Agril Univ 22(2):249-256, 2024

Proposing novel approach for indirect solar dryer integrated with active-fan and passive-chimney: An experimental and analytical investigation

Solar energy utilizing for drying products was considered the important friendly method to the environment in order to minimize the fossil fuels dependence. With removing the content of moisture, fruits life can be improved and these can be conserved and utilized for long time. Solar technique of drying not evaporates only but provides safe storage and products controlled. The aims of this experimental work were to determine how the proposed design of an indirect solar dryer (Chimney [natural convection] and Fan [forced convection]) influence on the drying performance and the rate of evaporation for drying grapes in Egypt. Compared to open sun solar dryer (OSSD), the dried grape product from the indirect sun drying process (in both cases) is protected from pollution and dust. In addition, the grape samples are dried faster by the recommended indirect SDs than by the OSSD. The results showed that the moisture content (MC) of the grape sample in the chimney-SD dropped from 79.80 % to 14.04 % and for the Fan-SD to 15.83 % during three days of the experiments. In contrast, the average MC for the tray in the OSSD was 70.76 % for the same time. Furthermore, the mean collector thermal efficiency for the Fan and Chimney-SDs was 27.02 % and 29.18 %, respectively. The production costs were estimated at 4.65 $/kg and 4.5$/kg of dried grapes for the Fan and Chimney-SDs, respectively. Finally, The CO2 mitigation were 286.25 kg/year and 337.18 kg/year for the Fan and Chimney-SDs, respectively.

Development of a novel salt processing technology and its performance and economic evaluation: an experimental study

ABSTRACT This study aimed to develop a novel, sustainable, highly efficient, and affordable salt processing technology tailored to local salt producers. Novel technology converts raw solar sea salt into the finest dried salt, which is widely accepted by various industries. Experiments were conducted at a drying temperature of 80°C, with an air velocity of 30 m/s, and a feed rate of 125 kg per hour to evaluate the proposed novel salt processing technology. Performance evaluation was based on product quality parameters (e.g. wet moisture content, sodium chloride (NaCl) percentage, and whiteness) and specific energy consumption. The economic assessment relied on financial analysis and payback period parameters. The results indicated a reduction in salt sample moisture content from 10.37% ± 0.4% to 0.47% ± 0.02%, with NaCl percentage and whiteness of the salt produced at 98.5% ± 0.3% and 81 ± 0.7, respectively. The specific energy consumption for the novel salt processing technology was 0.119 ± 0.07 kWh/kg of the final salt product. Initial investment requirements totalled IDR 275,435,000, with a payback period of 1.66 years. This proposed novel salt processing technology has the potential to generate high-quality dried salt with a production efficiency of 89.5%. Consequently, it could enhance local producer’s businesses, seize opportunities in the national salt market, support rural industrialisation, and be best configured for Indonesia’s local salt producers.

The Effect of Type of Reinforcement, Type of Glue and Reinforcement Place on Mechanical and Physical Properties of LVL

This study investigated the effect of the reinforcement type, glue type, and reinforcement placement on the mechanical and physical properties of LVL. In the study, the glues used were phenol- formaldehyde (FF), epoxy (EX), and polyurethane (PU), while reinforcement materials used were glass fiber, basalt, jute, and cotton fabric. The following three reinforcement combinations were applied: the first was on the bottom surface, the second was on the first adhesive line at the bottom, and the third was on both the bottom and the first adhesive line at the bottom. As part of the study, researchers manufactured 9-layer laminated veneer lumber (LVL) using alder veneers for the surface, and poplar veneers for the middle layers. They produced a total of 39 different combinations of LVL. The mechanical and physical properties of the produced samples were determined. According to the test results, bending strength (BS), modulus of elasticity (MOE), oven-dry specific gravity, and equilibrium moisture content of samples were higher with FF than with other glues. While the samples with EX glue provided the lowest values in water absorption and thickness swelling tests, glass fiber-reinforced samples provided the highest mechanical values. In addition, the samples having reinforcement on the bottom surface provided higher BS and MOE values.

Pulsed Electric Field Pretreatments Affect the Metabolite Profile and Antioxidant Activities of Freeze- and Air-Dried New Zealand Apricots.

Pulsed electric field (PEF) pretreatment has been shown to improve the quality of dried fruits in terms of antioxidant activity and bioactive compounds. In this study, apricots were pretreated with PEF at different field strengths (0.7 kV/cm; 1.2 kV/cm and 1.8 kv/cm) at a frequency of 50 Hz, and electric pulses coming in every 20 µs for 30 s, prior to freeze-drying and air-drying treatments. PEF treatments were carried out at different field strengths. The impact of different pretreatments on the quality of dried apricot was determined in terms of physical properties, antioxidant activity, total phenolic content, and metabolite profile. PEF pretreatments significantly (p < 0.05) increased firmness of all the air-dried samples the most by 4-7-fold and most freeze-dried apricot samples (44.2% to 98.64%) compared to the control group. However, PEF treatment at 1.2 kV/cm did not have any effect on hardness of the freeze-dried sample. The moisture content and water activity of freeze-dried samples were found to be significantly lower than those of air-dried samples. Scanning electron microscopy results revealed that air drying caused the loss of fruit structure due to significant moisture loss, while freeze drying preserved the honeycomb structure of the apricot flesh, with increased pore sizes observed at higher PEF intensities. PEF pretreatment also significantly increased the antioxidant activity and total phenol content of both air-dried and freeze-dried apricots. PEF treatment also significantly (p < 0.05) increased amino acid and fatty acid content of air-dried samples but significantly (p < 0.05) decreased sugar content. Almost all amino acids (except tyrosine, alanine, and threonine) significantly increased with increasing PEF intensity. The results of this study suggest that PEF pretreatment can influence the quality of air-dried and freeze-dried apricots in terms antioxidant activity and metabolites such as amino acids, fatty acids, sugar, organic acids, and phenolic compounds. The most effective treatment for preserving the quality of dried apricots is freeze drying combined with high-intensity (1.8 kv/cm) PEF treatment.