Reduction In Moisture Content Research Articles

The influence of rice husk ash and spent catalyst RCC 15 on the unconfined compressive strength of soft clay

Soil stabilization is a critical method for enhancing the mechanical and physical characteristics of weak soils to support construction requirements. This study explores the effectiveness of Rice Husk Ash (RHA) and Spent Catalyst RCC 15 (RCC) as environmentally friendly stabilizing agents. RHA, known for its high silica content and pozzolanic activity, and RCC 15, an industrial byproduct rich in silica, alumina, and iron, demonstrate considerable potential to improve soil strength and performance. Laboratory tests revealed that the best stabilization results were achieved with a mixture of 6% RHA and 11% RCC. This combination led to notable improvements, including an increase in maximum dry density (MDD), a reduction in optimum moisture content (OMC), and enhanced Atterberg limits. The Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) reached 2309 kg/cm², reflecting a 460,9% increase compared to the untreated soft clay, which had an initial UCS of 0,412 kg/cm². This substantial improvement highlights the effective pozzolanic reactions that occur between RHA and RCC, resulting in a denser and stronger soil matrix. By utilizing waste materials from agriculture and industry, the application of RHA and RCC 15 supports more sustainable construction practices, reduces reliance on conventional resources, and helps lower carbon emissions. These results affirm that the combination of RHA and RCC 15 is an innovative and sustainable solution for improving soft clay soils, contributing to the development of greener and more resilient infrastructure.

IOT Based Solar Dehydration System For Chilli Drying

Solar dehydration is an innovative technology that combines renewable energy sources with thermal storage to improve drying efficiency and product quality. This research focuses on developing an Internet of Things (IoT) -based solar dryer for drying chili peppers. The IoT technology enables users to remotely monitor system parameters on mobile phones using an IoT application. The study investigates the integration of solar dryers for agricultural products, specifically focusing on Dominican bananas. It demonstrates the effectiveness of solar-assisted drying systems in reducing moisture content and enhancing the quality of dried chilies by providing controlled and consistent drying conditions. The results highlight the economic and quality benefits of these dryers, although further research on scalability and environmental impact is needed. The system utilizes a DHT22 sensor, which communicates temperature and humidity data to a microcontroller unit (MCU) via a single-wire serial interface. The MCU, an ESP8266-based Node MCU, is programmed using the Arduino IDE to read sensor data and transmit it over Wi-Fi. By connecting the Node MCU to a local Wi-Fi network, it serves a web page displaying real-time temperature and humidity readings. Users can connect their mobile devices to the Wi-Fi network to monitor the system remotely. The solar dehydration system was tested for drying chili samples weighing 2 kg, 5 kg, and 10 kg. The drying times for these samples were 1 hour 15 minutes, 2 hours, and 3 hours 30 minutes, respectively. The system also calculated the humidity levels for each sample, which ranged from 38% to 47%. Additionally, the system monitored and recorded the intensity of solar radiation during the drying process.

Investigating the novel use of rosehip extracts and seed oils in the production of alginate-based edible films

Abstract This study formulated biodegradable, edible films with sodium alginate and varying concentrations and a combination of seed oils (watermelon seed oil, sesame seed oil) and rosehip extract. In the present study, rosehip, sesame, and watermelon seed oils, which incorporated many bioactive compounds and are known to have antioxidant properties, were incorporated into edible films to improve the film properties due to the controlled release of the active substance and thus increase the storage time. The potential to form alginate-based edible films by incorporating this extract and seed oils into alginate-based films has not been thoroughly investigated. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and mechanical, physical, thermal, and antioxidant properties characterized the edible film samples. The biodegradability by soil was also performed. Blending rosehip extract and its combination with seed oils significantly improved the films' antioxidant properties while reducing moisture content. In the study, the highest total phenolic content was recorded in the rosehip + sesame oil film (R2) sample (0.418 ± 0.015 mg GAE/g) and the lowest total phenolic content was recorded in the control sample (0.208 ± 0.014 mg GAE/g). Additionally, the highest % moisture value was recorded in the control sample (68.060 ± 0.530%), and the lowest % moisture value was recorded in the rosehip + sesame oil film (R2) sample (61.223 ± 0.881%). Watermelon seed oil blended film samples showed more homogeneity and had smooth surfaces compared to control samples. Alginate-based films incorporated with seed oils and rosehip extract may have caused color differences and whiteness index due to phenolic and bioactive compounds in their content. Soil degradation properties showed that the films were biodegradable. The elongation at break value of alginate-based films combined with rosehip extract and seed oils showed a significant increase compared to the control films. According to the results, alginate-based films combined with rosehip extract (films compounded with rosehip extract only and films compounded with rosehip and selected seed oils) improved film properties compared to control films. In addition, the incorporation of rosehip extract into the films improved the film properties compared to the films obtained using only seed oil. Based on the findings of this study, the use of rosehip extract, sesame, and watermelon seed oil in the development of composite biodegradable, edible films of sodium alginate could be used as a suitable alternative for edible food packaging.

Drying Characteristics of Pine Wood (Pinus merkusii Jungh. et de Vriese) Using Hot Air, Infrared, and Combined Infrared-Hot Air

This research aims to determine the drying characteristics of Merkusii pine wood (Pinus merkusii Jungh. et de Vriese) using three methods, including the hot air drying, infrared, and combined infrared-hot air. The drying characteristics included temperature distribution, reduction in moisture content, drying rate, wood surface temperature distribution, and specific energy consumption (SEC). The results show that the combined infrared-hot air drying method produces a faster drying time and the highest drying rate compared to the only hot air or only infrared drying method. The fastest drying time was 345 min at a treatment temperature of 90°C, air velocity of 3 m/s, and the greatest drying rate was 0.429 gr/min at a temperature of 80°C, air velocity of 3 m/s. Additionally, the combined infrared hot air method produces a more uniform temperature distribution on the wood surface and lower specific energy consumption, specifically 1027.15 MJ/kg. Keywords: Drying, Hot air, Infrared, Temperature.

Anthracene: multiparametric toxicity assessment in Pisum sativum, Vigna radiataand Epipremnum aureum, and remediation efficacy by Epipremnum aureum.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are emerging contaminants that are toxic to plants. Toxicity of anthracene, a priority PAH, was examined in Pisum sativum and Vigna radiata by evaluating their germination index, growth parameters, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content at three concentrations of anthracene: 25, 50, and 100 mg/L water. Growth characteristics and MDA content of anthracene-treated Epipremnum aureum were also monitored to assess anthracene-induced toxicity at the previously specified concentrations of anthracene. Following 30 days of plantation with E. aureum, HPLC analysis was performed to investigate the elimination of anthracene. The 24-h germination index and germination percentage revealed anthracene significantly reduced the germination index in P. sativum at all concentrations and in V. radiata at 50 and 100 mg/L concentrations. Anthracene-treated legumes showed concentration-dependent reductions in root length, shoot length, biomass, and moisture content compared to the control group. A significant reduction in biomass and a significant rise in moisture content were found in E. aureum in the presence of anthracene compared to the control group. Anthracene significantly increased MDA levels in both leguminous plants at all concentrations, while E. aureum exhibiting a significantrise in MDA at 50 and 100 mg/L ofanthracene treatment. Following a 30-day cultivation period utilizing E. aureum, anthracene was undetectable in the media that contained 25 mg/L of anthracene. In addition, a notable reduction in anthracene levels was observed in the media containing 50 and 100 mg/L of anthracene. This study indicates that anthracene is toxic to P. sativum and V. radiata during the initial growth period, which might influence crop yields for these two legumes. Due to its resistance to low concentrations of anthracene, the ornamental plant E. aureum can be utilized for the phytoremediation of anthracene and other polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, potentially preventing their entry into the food chain.

A synergistic approach integrating potassium ferrate oxidation with polyacrylamide flocculation to enhance sludge dewatering and its mechanisms.

A synergistic approach integrating potassium ferrate oxidation with polyacrylamide flocculation to enhance sludge dewatering and its mechanisms.

Colorimetric films of carboxymethyl cellulose and sodium alginate incorporating Spirulina extract (phycobiliproteins) and gallic acid for real-time shrimp freshness monitoring.

Colorimetric films of carboxymethyl cellulose and sodium alginate incorporating Spirulina extract (phycobiliproteins) and gallic acid for real-time shrimp freshness monitoring.

Impact of Silicon Dioxide Nanoparticles on Nutritional Composition of Edible Insect: Galleria mellonella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) Larvae

The present study investigates the impact of SiO₂ NPs (Silicon Dioxide Nanoparticles) (500–60000 ppm) on key chemical parameters including protein, lipid, carbohydrate, moisture, ash, and fatty acid composition in Galleria mellonella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) larvae, with a view to identifying potential implications for sustainable food systems. It was determined that the protein and carbohydrate contents of larvae fed with high doses (>5000 ppm) of SiO2 NPs were significantly reduced in comparison to the control group. Moreover, an increment in the dose of SiO2 NPs resulted in a decrease in the fat content of the larvae. It was found that larvae exposed to 500 and 30000 ppm SiO2 NPs exhibited a reduction in moisture content. Furthermore, the ash content of all larvae treated with SiO2 NPs exhibited a significant increase. Finally, an increment in the dose of SiO2 NPs in the larvae was found to be an increase in the level of palmitic acid and a decrease in the level of oleic acid. These findings demonstrate the importance of evaluating the risks associated with nanoparticle exposure in edible insect-based food products with a view to ensuring food safety and sustainability.

Substitusi Tepung Nangka dan Durasi Fermentasi terhadap Profil Mutu Kimia dan Sensori Roti Manis Berbasis Tepung Terigu

Bread is one of the staple foods consumed by the Indonesian population, in addition to rice. It contains carbohydrates and serves as an important source of energy and calories. This study aimed to examine the effect of jackfruit flour substitution and fermentation duration on the chemical and sensory quality profile of wheat flour-based sweet bread. A factorial completely randomized design was used, with two factors: jackfruit flour substitution and fermentation time. The results showed that increasing the proportion of jackfruit flour led to higher ash content and improved sensory scores for color, taste, texture, and aroma, but had no significant effect on reducing moisture content. Similarly, fermentation duration increased ash content and enhanced organoleptic attributes without significantly lowering moisture. The combination of both factors improved ash content, sensory quality, and reduced moisture levels in the bread. The optimal treatment, based on panelist acceptance, was found at 15% jackfruit flour substitution and 60 minutes of fermentation, yielding the following product characteristics: moisture 19.21%, ash 1.58%, color 4.13 (like), taste 4.00 (like), aroma 4.20 (like), and texture 4.07 (like).

INFLUENCE OF SKIM MILK CONCENTRATION ON THE PROXIMATE, CHEMICAL, AND MICROBIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF POWDERED BUFFALO COLOSTRUM KEFIR

Adding fillers to kefir improves the stability and physical properties of kefir, so as to produce good kefir powder from the drying process. This study was conducted to determine the effect of skim milk addition as filler with different concentrations (0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, 10%) on the proximate, chemical, and microbiological properties of buffalo colostrum kefir powder using the spray dryer method. Increasing skim milk’s concentration had a significant effect (p<0.05) on proximate, chemical, and microbiological properties, except for total dissolved solids in the product. Increasing the concentration of skim milk enhanced solubility, total dissolved solids, yield, pH, total lactic acid bacteria, yeast, and microbial counts, while reducing moisture content, protein content, fat content, and titratable acidity. The addition of skim milk with the highest concentration produced a yield of 27.51%, caused by the drying factor with a spray dryer. It produced yeast of 7.43 log CFU/g and lactic acid bacteria of 5.17 log CFU/g, with lactic acid bacteria levels lower than the standard due to suboptimal drying and encapsulation processes. The best treatment in this study was the addition of 10% (w/v) skim milk.

Soil Stabilization Using Xanthan Gum: An Eco-Friendly Approach to Improve Peat Soil Properties

Peat soil presents significant challenges in geotechnical engineering due to its high moisture content, low shear strength, and high compressibility, making it unsuitable for construction. Traditional stabilization methods such as cement and lime have been widely used but raise environmental concerns due to their high carbon emissions. This study explores the effectiveness of xanthan gum, a biodegradable biopolymer, as an alternative stabilizing agent for peat soil. The research aims to assess its impact on moisture content regulation, plasticity behavior, compaction characteristics, and overall soil stability. A series of laboratory experiments, including Atterberg limits tests, moisture content analysis, and compaction tests, were conducted to evaluate the engineering properties of xanthan gum-treated peat soil. Three xanthan gum concentrations (0%, 2%, and 4% by weight) were tested to determine the optimal dosage for soil stabilization. The results indicate that xanthan gum significantly reduces moisture content, with a decrease from 135.42% in untreated soil to 39.5% at 4% xanthan gum concentration. The liquid limit and plastic limit increased, indicating enhanced soil cohesion and workability. Compaction tests revealed that while 2% xanthan gum resulted in lower dry density, 4% xanthan gum improved compaction efficiency, suggesting an optimal concentration range for stabilization. The study confirms that xanthan gum is an effective, sustainable alternative to traditional soil stabilizers, providing significant benefits in peat soil stabilization. However, further research is needed to investigate its long-term durability under environmental variations, large-scale field applications, and hybrid stabilization techniques. By addressing these challenges, xanthan gum could become a mainstream solution for sustainable geotechnical engineering applications.

Bee Bread Drying Process Intensification in Combs Using Solar Energy

This study presents the development and evaluation of a stand-alone solar dryer designed to improve the efficiency of bee bread dehydration. Unlike the electric prototype powered by conventional energy sources, the proposed system operates autonomously, utilizing solar energy as the primary drying agent. The drying chamber is equipped with solar collectors located in its lower section, which ensure convective heating of the product. Active convection is generated by a set of fans powered by photovoltaic panels, maintaining the drying agent’s temperature near 42 °C. The research methodology integrates both numerical simulation and experimental investigation. Simulations focus on the variations in temperature (288–315 K) and relative humidity (1–1.5%) within the honeycomb structure under convective airflow. Experimental trials examine the relationship between moisture content and variables such as bee bread mass, airflow rate, number of frames (5–11 units), and drying time (2–11 h). A statistically grounded analysis based on an experimental design method was conducted, revealing a reduction in moisture content from 16.2–18.26% to 14.1–15.1% under optimized conditions. Linear regression models were derived to describe these dependencies. A comparative assessment using enthalpy–humidity (I–d) diagrams demonstrated the enhanced drying performance of the solar dryer, which is attributed to its cyclic operation mode. The results confirm the potential of the developed system for sustainable and energy-efficient drying of bee bread in decentralized conditions.

Enzymatic browning in fresh extra virgin olive oil (EVOO): Detection of polyphenol oxidase, assessing moisture impact, and revealing the anti-browning capacity of EVOO.

Enzymatic browning in fresh extra virgin olive oil (EVOO): Detection of polyphenol oxidase, assessing moisture impact, and revealing the anti-browning capacity of EVOO.

Correlation of Moisture Content and Heating Value of Refuse-Derived Fuel

Abstract Refused Derived Fuel (RDF) from mixed agricultural residues (Ag-Residue) is a potential solution to reduce coal dependency due to its similar energy content. This study aims to determine the correlation between moisture content and heating value (HHV) of five RDF formulations containing PKS, CS, CH, and EFB, with varying moisture content (MC) levels of 5%, 8%, and 10%. The results demonstrated that all samples showed an increase in HHV as the moisture content decreased, as more water content absorbs energy during burning, leading to a decrease in net output. These findings highlight the critical importance of reducing moisture content in RDF to enhance energy output, demonstrating the effectiveness of drying techniques or moisture control methods.

Pyrolysis of spent coffee ground: optimization of operating parameters on product yield

Abstract This research aims to optimize the pyrolysis process of spent coffee grounds (SCG) utilizing a fixed bed reactor system. Response surface methodology (RSM) with central composite design (CCD) was employed to determine the optimal conditions for maximizing the yield of bio-char, bio-oil, and bio-gas. The study examined the impact of pyrolysis temperature and residence time, identifying 545.19 °C and 52.87 minutes as the optimal conditions. Under these parameters, the highest bio-oil, bio-char, and bio-gas yields were 44.70%, 27.32%, and 27.98%, respectively. All process parameters were significant (p-value < 0.05), with pyrolysis temperature emerging as the most influential factor based on the highest F-value. The bio-char’s proximate analysis revealed that increased pyrolysis temperature and prolonged residence time reduced moisture content to 3.69 wt% and enhanced fixed carbon content to 74.97 wt%. Functional group analysis of bio-oil demonstrated a complex composition with various organic compounds such as C-H, C=O, CH2, CH3, C-O, P-O-C, and C-Cl, highlighting its diverse chemical properties and potential applications. In conclusion, optimizing pyrolysis conditions effectively converts SCG into valuable bio-products, presenting a sustainable waste management solution for Malaysia’s increasing coffee consumption.

Comparative study of drying techniques on the anti-inflammatory content of bitter leaf simplicia (Vernonia amygdalina Del.)

Bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina Del.) hold significant potential for development in the pharmaceutical industry due to its high content of bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids, which serve as a source of anti-inflammatory agents. A major challenge in processing bitter leaf into dried simplicia is the selection of an appropriate drying technique, as the drying process can alter the active compounds present in the plant. This study aimed to analyze the drying rate of bitter leaf and evaluate the most effective drying technique for preserving their anti-inflammatory properties. The drying process was conducted using an oven dryer at 40°C and 50°C, as well as a greenhouse dryer, and the reduction in moisture content over time was recorded. The dried simplicia was subsequently subjected to phytochemical screening and anti-inflammatory activity testing. The results indicated that the drying durations required to achieve a final moisture content of <10% were 44 hours at 40°C, 20 hours at 50°C, and 9 hours using the greenhouse drying method. Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and steroids in the bitter leaf extract. The IC₅₀ values for the three drying methods were determined to be 25.33 ppm, 61.05 ppm, and 114.25 ppm, respectively. Among the drying methods tested, oven drying at 40°C yielded the highest anti-inflammatory activity, with an IC₅₀ value of 25.33 ppm. The regression equation obtained was y = 0.072x + 48.176, with an R² value of 0.9899, indicating a strong correlation between extract concentration and inflammation inhibition. This suggests the potential for reliable prediction of optimal dosages for pharmacological applications.

COMPOSITE FLOUR MIXTURES IN THE PRODUCTION OF GINGERBREAD PRODUCTS

One of the approaches to improving product quality and enhancing the nutritional structure of the population is the incorporation of novel, unconventional plant-based raw materials into the diet. These materials contain balanced complexes of proteins, lipids, minerals, vitamins, and other essential compounds. An innovative direction in the development of the flour-based confectionery industry is the production of new baked goods utilizing flour blend compositions that include flour from various cereals, legumes, and oilseeds. This study presents the results of research on the formulation of choux gingerbread using composite flour mixtures to obtain an enriched product with increased levels of essential amino acids, macro- and micronutrients, and other biologically active components. To impart specific properties to the gingerbread products, a partial replacement of wheat flour with chickpea flour was proposed. Due to its amino acid composition and fiber content, legume flour serves as an ideal ingredient for enhancing the nutritional value of confectionery products. Additionally, chickpea flour is a gluten-free product that contains dietary fiber, which contributes to gut health regulation. The nutritional value of the baked gingerbread was assessed, revealing that the inclusion of chickpea flour in its production led to an increase in nutritional quality, enrichment with proteins, fats, and amino acids, and a reduction in caloric content by 6–9.3% compared to gingerbread made according to the traditional recipe. Structural and mechanical analysis indicated a deterioration in product rise and water absorption capacity, yet an increase in baking loss by 1.5 times was observed. The addition of chickpea flour also resulted in a 35% decrease in alkalinity compared to the control sample, along with a slight reduction in moisture content.

Photocrosslinked Poly(Vinyl Alcohol)–Tung Oil–Natural Rubber Films: A Sustainable Solution for Enhanced Water Resistance and Mechanical Properties in Biodegradable Packaging

ABSTRACTThis study introduces a novel approach to addressing the water resistance limitations of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)‐based biodegradable films by developing a ternary blend system incorporating tung oil (T) and natural rubber (R), forming PTR films. Photocrosslinking, combined with thermal and redox catalytic systems, facilitated the creation of enhanced network structures, as confirmed by FTIR analysis, particularly at tung oils conjugated double bonds. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) revealed significant shifts in glass transition temperatures (Tg), signifying enhanced crosslink density and interconnectivity between the components. The resulting PTR films demonstrated remarkable improvements in water resistance, evidenced by higher solid remain percentages, reduced water absorption, and significantly lower water vapor permeability (WVP). Mechanical properties, including tensile strength and Youngs modulus, improved by up to 150% (from 6.6 MPa of PT0R15‐r‐np to 16.3 MPa of PT0R15‐r‐p30) and 870% (from 6.6 MPa of PT0R15‐r‐np to 16.3 MPa of PT0R15‐r‐p30), respectively, due to the formation of robust network structures. Contact angle measurements and reduced moisture content further underscored the enhanced hydrophobic and moisture barrier properties. These findings establish photocrosslinked PTR films as a sustainable and high‐performance option for biodegradable packaging applications, offering practical advantages such as reduced processing temperatures and production times.

Manual and automated aeration strategies during storage of sunflower grains in silos

The objective of this study was to identify the influence of manual and automated aeration strategies guided by thermometry systems with thermocouples and digital sensors, respectively, on the quality of sunflower grains stored at different heights in a metal silo. The experiment was conducted in a storage unit in two vertical metal silos. Aeration in these silos was manually coordinated in the silo containing thermocouples and automated in the silo with a digital thermometry system. In addition to the grain mass temperature data, the quality of the sunflower grains was monitored for 90 days of storage at three heights in the silo (upper, middle, and lower thirds). The aeration strategies influenced the temperature of the grain mass and, consequently, the quality of the stored product, especially its moisture content. No influence of aeration strategies was identified for protein content, oil content, and iodine content of the oil of the stored sunflower grains. Automation of aeration contributes to making use of better climatic conditions to carry out the process, compared with the manual system used. The aeration strategies adopted (cooling and conservation) were efficient in reducing grain mass temperature in the automated process. The silo with automated aeration showed better conservation of the quality of the stored sunflower grains. The silo with manually controlled aeration showed an 11.55% reduction in grain moisture content. Grains stored in the middle third of the silo tend to have better quality.

Sustainable Briquette Production from Hazelnut Shell Waste: The Significance of Particle Size in Quality Enhancement

Interest in biomass briquettes as a fossil fuel substitute has increased due to the growing need for sustainable energy sources. The impact of hazelnut shell charcoal particle size on briquette quality is examined in this study, with particular attention paid to important variables such bulk density, compressive strength, moisture content, ash content, volatile matter, and fixed carbon content. Three different particle size treatments (20 mesh, 40 mesh, and 60 mesh) were analyzed using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with five replications. The results indicated that finer particle sizes (60 mesh) significantly improved briquette quality, exhibiting higher bulk density (0.975 g/cm³), compressive strength (58.38 N/cm²), and fixed carbon content (68.25%), while reducing moisture content (7.13%), ash content (2.85%), and volatile matter (21.65%). These findings highlight the importance of optimizing particle size to enhance the physical and combustion properties of biomass briquettes. Briquette manufacture from hazelnut shell waste offers a viable sustainable bioenergy strategy that supports waste reduction and the growth of renewable energy sources.