Drying Kinetics of Aster (Chrysanthemum morifolium var. Remix Purple) and Rose (Rosa sp.) Flowers under Vacuum Drying
La Choviya Hawa, Dimas Firmanda Al Riza, Dwi Setiawan, Gendis Salsa Andhayu, Khansa Nadelia

Agricultural Engineering and Biosystem Study Program Universitas Brawijaya

Abstract

The processing of flowers into dried blooms can reduce the moisture content and yield more enduring artistic products, especially for Rustic-themed artworks. Vacuum drying holds significant potential for flower drying applications. Vacuum drying accelerates the drying process compared to natural drying and can be carried out at lower temperatures than conventional drying. The objective of this study is to analyze changes in moisture content and drying rates for the roses and asters, establish mathematical kinetic models for drying rates, and analyze color changes occurring during the drying process. The research findings indicate that the drying rate of roses is faster than that of asters, and the addition of adsorbents slows down the drying process. The lowest moisture content for the roses and asters, either with and without adsorbents were 54.84 percent, 45.41 percent, 70.40 percent, and 64.97 percent, respectively. The best kinetic model for the drying of the roses and asters, with and without the addition of adsorbents, is the Two-term model. Pink rose change in color to purplish-pink, becoming dry on the outer surface and shrinkage. As a result of the drying process, the petals and tips of purple asters get shrinkage and acquire a darker purple tint.

Keywords: vacuum drying, roses, asters, flower, drying kinetics

Topic: Agricultural Engineering