FURI | Spring 2019

Removal of Hydrocarbons in Solar Drying System

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The focus of this research is to provide a sustainable system to manage food production by developing a food preservation system. Drying removes moisture from food so unwanted contaminants can’t permeate into the food, causing it to spoil. Additionally, drying makes food smaller and lighter, making storage easier. Biogenic hydrocarbons are released in the drying process, thus affecting the drying environment, and potentially influencing drying time and quality. This research aims to assess and optimize the drying process by investigating the role of hydrocarbons in drying process and creating a unique, sustainable system that efficiently dries and stores food.

Student researcher

Portrait of Ashley Raimondi

Ashley Raimondi

Chemical engineering

Hometown: Chandler, Arizona

Graduation date: Spring 2019