Freeze-drying breakthrough slashes energy costs, boosts sustainability for mint production
In the research, experts analyzed how mint leaves are dried using a method called freeze-drying. They wanted to see how to make this process more efficient by using less energy. By looking at the energy and exergy (another way of measuring energy) used in freeze-drying, they found that higher temperatures and lower pressures could help save energy. Keeping the surface of the drying chamber at 30°C can also reduce energy waste. The study suggests that adjusting certain conditions during freeze-drying can help cut down on energy use and make the process more efficient.