CINÉTICA DE SECAGEM E AVALIAÇÃO FÍSICO-QUÍMICA DA GOIABA DESIDRATADA EM UM PROTÓTIPO DE SECADOR SOLAR.

Because it is a simple and low-cost process, natural drying, using solar energy and low-cost equipment, becomes a viable and accessible alternative for small rural producers. Guava is a climacteric and highly perishable fruit. The description of the drying process is extremely important to obtain good quality products. This work aimed to develop a low-cost, direct-exposure solar dryer prototype for guava dehydration, in addition to evaluating the efficiency of the process and the physical-chemical quality of the final product. The prototype was developed using alternative and lowcost materials. The efficiency of the process was evaluated through the drying kinetics and the temperature gain of the dryer. The raw material and the final product were evaluated for physical-chemical parameters and color. The drying process made it possible to dry the guava fruits within 15 hours, with an average temperature increase of 19.7°C. The Handerson and Pabis model was the one that best fit to predict the process. Solar drying led to a significant reduction in pH and water content. Regarding acidity and soluble solids content, a significant increase was observed after drying. Regarding vitamin C, there was an increase of about 500% in the concentration in relation to the content of fresh guava. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]