Banana is one of the fruits we commonly consume. To preserve the nutritional components and original color of banana processed products, researchers utilize Freeze Dryer for vacuum freeze-drying studies. The freeze-drying research on bananas mainly focuses on banana slices and banana powder.
The freeze-drying process of banana powder primarily includes several steps: pretreatment, pre-freezing, sublimation drying, desorption drying, and packaging. Pretreatment involves peeling, slicing, and pulping bananas to facilitate subsequent drying. Pre-freezing involves freezing the banana pulp to a specific temperature to form a stable sublimation interface during the sublimation drying phase. Sublimation drying entails heating the frozen banana pulp under vacuum conditions to remove moisture via sublimation. Desorption drying further eliminates residual moisture to achieve the required dryness. Finally, the packaged banana powder is ready for market.
Several critical parameters must be strictly controlled during freeze-drying to ensure product quality. First, material thickness: Since banana pulp is highly viscous, uniform thickness must be maintained during production to prevent issues like interlayers or incomplete drying. Second, heating temperature during sublimation: Experiments show that drying time decreases as the shelf temperature increases within an appropriate range (≤20°C). However, excessive heating under high working pressure may cause product melting, necessitating temperature limitations. Lastly, sublimation pressure: The working pressure primarily affects heat and mass transfer. Studies indicate an optimal pressure (around 40Pa) that minimizes drying time.
The freeze-drying curve serves as a crucial indicator of the drying process. By analyzing curves under different conditions, process parameters can be optimized. For instance, under optimal conditions (8mm thickness, 20°C heating, 40Pa pressure), the freeze-drying curve exhibits stable sublimation and desorption phases, shorter drying time, and superior product quality.
Freeze dryers demonstrate significant advantages and broad application prospects in banana powder production. By rigorously controlling key parameters and optimizing processes, both product quality and production efficiency can be enhanced. Today, as food quality standards rise, BOTH's diverse range of freeze dryers—designed for high-quality requirements—have gained extensive adoption. Welcome to inquire for further details.
Post time: Mar-11-2025
