Thin-Layer Drying of Pomegranate Peel Waste

The study investigated the drying process of pomegranate peel, a by-product of juice processing, to add value and reduce waste. By experimenting with different drying air temperatures (65, 75, and 85°C) and velocities (1, 2, and 3 m/s) at a layer thickness of 7 mm, the initial moisture content of 244% (d.b) was reduced to between 6% and 4% (d.b). The drying kinetics were described using two thin-layer drying models, evaluated by coefficients of determination, reduced chi square, and root mean square error. The operation cost of drying was approximately 5.5 E/kg, while the market price for 1 kg of dried peel was 35 LE, indicating potential profitability. The dried peel could be used in various industries, including those addressing hair loss and dandruff.