Moisture sorption isotherms of lentil seeds at several temperatures

The equilibrium moisture contents (EMC) in lentil seeds were determined using the gravimetric static method at 5 degrees C, 20 degrees C, 40 degrees C and 60 degrees C over a range of relative humidities (RH) from 0.110 to 0.877. The sorption capacity of seeds decreased with increase in temperature at constant RH. Five models - the modified Chung-Pfost, modified Halsey, modified Oswin, modified Henderson and GAB (Guggenheim-Anderson-de Boer) equations were applied to analyze the experimental data. The GAB and the modified Oswin models were found to be the most suitable for describing the EMC/RH relationship. Lentil seeds have a monolayer moisture content when stored at 0.16 < RH < 0.17 regardless of the temperature. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.