Affiliation:
1. College of Science, Inner Mongolia University of Technology, Hohhot 010051, China
2. College of Electric Power, Inner Mongolia University of Technology, Hohhot 010080, China
3. Branch of Tumote Left Banner, Ecological Environment Bureau of Hohhot, Hohhot 010100, China
Abstract
High-voltage discharge plasma drying (HVDPD) is a non-thermal and efficient drying technique. In this study, we compared the drying characteristics and physicochemical properties of alfalfa dried via HVDPD, hot-air drying (HAD), and natural air-drying (AD) and analyzed the experimental results using infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, colorimetry, and other detection techniques. The results showed that HVDPD had a higher drying rate than AD and saved more energy than HAD. Alfalfa dried via HVDPD had the most intact internal structure, the highest rehydration ratio (RR), the best color quality, and the best nutrient retention, resulting in the highest relative quality and feeding value. Therefore, HVDPD is an excellent drying technique for alfalfa, providing a new and effective way to improve the storage, transportation, and drying quality of alfalfa.
Funder
National Natural Science Foundations of China
Program for Young Talents of Science and Technology in Universities of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region
Basic Scientific Research Business Project of the Universities Directly of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region
Natural Science Foundation of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region
Science and Technology Plan Project of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region of China