THIN-LAYER DRYING OF MARIGOLD FLOWERS AND FLOWER COMPONENTS FOR PETAL REMOVAL

摘要

Thin-layer drying characteristics of marigolds were determined as a function of air temperature and airflow rate. Optimum drying conditions for petal separation were identified and xanthophyll reduction was associated with these conditions. A thin-layer model was developed to describe the drying characteristics of marigolds. Optimum conditions for petal detachment with thin-layer drying were found at an air temperature of 70°C and an airflow rate of 0.33 m3·s–1·m–2. On the average, xanthophyll content decreased at higher drying temperatures.