Folic acid (vitamin B9), a critical nutrient for health and industrial applications, undergoes drying to ensure stability and ease of handling in its powdered form.
Folic acid (vitamin B9), a critical nutrient for health and industrial applications, undergoes drying to ensure stability and ease of handling in its powdered form. The drying process removes residual moisture, preventing clumping and degradation that could compromise its efficacy in pharmaceuticals, supplements, or fortified foods. Due to its sensitivity to heat and light, gentle drying methods like belt drying or flash drying are commonly employed. These methods use controlled low temperatures (typically below 60°C) and reduced pressure to evaporate moisture without damaging the compound. Proper drying yields a uniform, free-flowing powder with consistent potency, essential for accurate dosing in medical and nutritional products. This step is vital for maintaining shelf life and ensuring compliance with quality standards.
1.Belt Drying
How it works:
Material is spread evenly on a conveyor belt and moved through a heated chamber. Hot air or infrared radiation dries the product gradually as it travels.
Key features:
Gentle, controlled drying (ideal for heat-sensitive compounds like folic acid).
Adjustable temperature and belt speed for precise moisture control.
Suitable for granular, crystalline, or sheet-like materials.
2. Flash Drying
How it works:
Wet material (e.g., slurries or pastes) is dispersed into a high-velocity hot air stream. Moisture evaporates instantly due to rapid heat transfer and short exposure time.
Key features:
Extremely fast drying (seconds).
High temperatures but short contact time reduce thermal damage.
Ideal for fine powders or materials that can tolerate brief heat exposure.