Drying behavior and mathematical modeling of <i>Tenebrio molitor</i> using a closed system heat pump dryer

Abstract The main purpose of this paper was to investigate the influence air temperatures (T), velocity (v) and blanching time (ô) on behavior Tenebrio molitor when a closed-system heat pump dryer is used dry sample equilibrium water content (dry basis 12.5%). T 40°C, 50°C 60°C; v 2, 3 4 m/s; ô 15, 30 45 s. And quality T. measured every 15 minutes. We also established mathematical model predict drying process. Altogether, six selected thin-layer models were compared assess process based coefficients determination (R2), root mean square error sum squared error. results showed that can be shortened as T, increased had greater effects with ô. There are three stages throughout process—the constant speed stage shortest decelerated played leading role. Among models, Midilli (R2 = 0.9997) superior others in describing curves molitor. experimental data MR agreement prediction Mildilli model.