Article révisé par les pairs
Résumé : Abstract Cirina forda caterpillars are an important source of protein in Central Africa, but their conservation and consumption pose challenges. This study investigates the drying kinetics and shrinkage of Cirina forda caterpillars. Caterpillars were subjected to convective drying experiments at temperatures ranging from 40 °C to 70 °C, using tunnel and oven dryers. Drying kinetics were analyzed using mathematical models, which revealed a water diffusion-limited mechanism in all conditions tested. The Newton model provided adequate estimates of drying behavior with determination coefficients above 0.8, while the use of the Henderson and Pabis model allowed reaching determination coefficients larger than 0.97. These simple models are therefore relevant tools for practical future dryer design. The use of a diffusion model also allowed the calculation of effective diffusion coefficients, providing additional information on the underlying mechanisms. Shrinkage analysis using a new mathematical model indicated a two-step process independent of drying conditions. Achieving a moisture content suitable for long-term storage resulted in a significant volume loss of over 50%. These findings offer interesting prospects on how to improve drying processes for Cirina forda caterpillars, which are crucial for maintaining protein sources in Central Africa.

Documents en relation

DI-fusion