TITLE:
Short Communication: Enhancing the Drying Process of Microbial-Based Products with a Dehumidifier
AUTHORS:
Nor Hidayah Bohari, Elya Masya Mohd Fishal, Ili Bazilah Abd Razak, Muhammad Ashraf Arif Mohd Nasir, Cik Mohd Rizuan Zainal Abidin
KEYWORDS:
Dehumidifier, Drying, Relative Humidity, Microbial-Based Product
JOURNAL NAME:
Advances in Microbiology,
Vol.14 No.6,
June
18,
2024
ABSTRACT: The development of microbial-based products requires certain criteria for them to be successfully commercialized. The product must meet the following desirable criteria: effectiveness, contamination free, stability, cost-effectiveness, and a prolonged shelf life. Controlling the drying process is crucial for ensuring the stability and durability of the product. The traditional approach, which involved mechanical and natural drying, led to decreased productivity and quality. The objective of this research endeavour was to achieve a dry process enhancement while preserving the microbial quality of Trichoderma asperellum (M103). The temperature and relative humidity during the drying period were monitored under two conditions: with and without a dehumidifier. The results demonstrate that the dehumidifier increases drying period efficiency by up to 63%.