Drying model with non-isotropic shrinkage deformation undergoing simultaneous heat and mass transfer

A model of simultaneous heat and moisture transfer in a cylindrical sample was coupled with the virtual work principle applicable to a body undergoing shrinkage deformation in two dimensions. Non-constant physical and thermal properties were also incorporated in the model. Governing equations and boundary conditions were solved numerically using Galerkin's finite element method. To check the mathematical model drying experiments were carried out. A cylindrical potato was used as a drying sample. Experimental conditions were as follows: a drying temperature of 333 K, relative humidity of 5.4%, and air velocity of 1.6 m/s. We obtained the central temperature of the sample, average moisture content, and the shrinkage change in the axial and radial directions during drying. It was observed that the shrinkage coefficients in the axial and the radial directions were significantly different during air-drying. Comparison between predicted and experimental results provides satisfactory agreement.