In this study, the thin-layer drying characteristics of Figs (Ficus carica) are investigated in a pilot scale forced convective dryer. Experiments carried out under various operating conditions including air temperature (40, 50, 60, 70°C), air velocity (0.65, 2.1, 3.45, 4.85 m/s) and air humidity (0.005, 0.010, 0.015 kg/kg) and the effects of these operating conditions on the drying kinetics and the drying time determined. The obtained kinetics data are fitted into a conceptually developed model. The equilibrium moisture content of the dried figs is determined at different values of temperature and relative humidity of air. The values of effective moisture diffusivity (Deff) are obtained from the Fick’s second law and a temperature-dependent relation is proposed for this parameter.
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