ABSTRACT
Given the importance of understanding hygroscopicity and isosteric heat in drying and storage operations, the aim of this work was to determine desorption isotherms in seeds of Buchenavia capitata (Vahl) Eichler, and to fit different mathematical models to the experimental data, selecting the one that best represents the phenomenon, and using it to determine the isosteric heat of desorption. To obtain the hygroscopic equilibrium moisture content, seeds of B. capitata with an initial moisture content of 13.16 ± 0.17% db (dry basis) were used. To obtain the desorption isotherms of the seeds, the indirect static method was employed, with the water activity (aw) being determined by a Model Aw 1 Hygropalm. The temperature was controlled by means of a BOD chamber set at 10, 20, 30 and 40°C. Mathematical models frequently used to represent the hygroscopicity of plant products were adjusted to the experimental data. The hygroscopic equilibrium moisture content of seeds of Buchenavia capitata (Vahl) Eichler is directly proportional to water activity, and decreases with increasing temperature for a given value of equilibrium relative humidity. The Copace mathematical model best represents hygroscopicity for seeds of B. capitata at the temperatures and water activity under study. Isosteric heat in seeds of B. capitata increases with decreases in the equilibrium moisture content, a greater amount of energy being required to remove the water.
Key words:
Mathematical modelling; Hygroscopíc equilibrium; Water activity.
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