Homogeneização intermitente do leito como estratégia para aprimorar o processo de biossecagem da biomassa de resíduo sólido de laranja

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of intermittent air flow (Q) and bed homogenization period (BHP) on the performance of the biodrying process of orange solid waste biomass (OSWB), aiming at its energy recovery. Experiments were conducted in an automated biodrying unit following a central composite design (CCD), with continuous monitoring of temperature, airflow, and mass variation. The results showed that increasing Q enhanced moisture removal by convection, while shorter BHP intervals compromised the thermal rise of the system. No experimental condition was identified that could simultaneously maximize bed temperature and dehydration. In trials with higher microbial activity, oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, and preservation of the higher heating value (HHV) were observed, indicating a more effective biodrying process. It is concluded that, although intermittent homogenization is effective in conventional drying, under the conditions studied, it may hinder biodrying by increasing thermal losses and disrupting the system’s biological balance. The findings confirm the potential of OSWB as a bioenergy source and highlight the importance of future strategies focused on biomass standardization, such as microbial inoculation, to ensure greater reproducibility and process efficiency.