AN ENERGY EFFICIENT CORN GRAINS DRYING PROCESS

A laboratory laser beam drying method for corn grain kernels is presented and the corresponding energy transfer is analysed. The proposed drying method enables fast and efficient decrease in grain humidity while preserving grain sprouting. Laser beam was directed to the thin grain layer with powers of 10 kW/m(2) and 20 kW/m(2). Grains were illuminated from one side during a period of 30 s with 100 mW, 655 nm and 200 mW, 660 nm collimated laser beam. The method exhibits at least an order of magnitude higher energy transfer compared to the classical drying method that uses hot air as drying medium. The energy savings increase, compared to classical hot air drying, both in laboratory conditions, was between 23,56 and 58,70 % ( 100 mW laser) and 10,62 % ( 200 mW laser), depending on grain wet basis and decreasing with decrease of moisture content.