A Model for Examining Mass Transfer Characteristics in Microwave Drying Process

Microwave technique was applied for drying of potato slabs. In the first part of this study, experimental data were used to determine the mass transfer characteristics for potato slab samples by adopting the model presented by Dincer and Dost. Mass transfer characteristics such as drying coefficient and moisture diffusivity were determined. In the second part, a mathematical model was developed by using factorial technique method for investigating the effect of microwave power and sample’s dimensions on the drying characteristics. The model was applied successfully in the case of potato slabs. The results show the microwave power has the main effect on the drying process and control the internal resistances to mass transfer.