FUZZY LOGIC-BASED TEMPERATURE CONTROL IN AN OVEN FOR EFFICIENT MORINGA LEAF DRYING.

Abstract

Moringa trees (Moringa oleifera) are extensively cultivated as living fences, bordering fields or rice paddies, and serve as valuable greenery. The various parts of the Moringa plant, including the stem bark, seeds, and leaves, possess medicinal properties and are employed in traditional remedies. To harness their therapeutic potential, these plant parts are subjected to drying and processing methods such as sunlight drying, oven drying, grinding, withering, and enzymatic oxidation. However, conventional sunlight drying suffers from extended drying times and dependence on solar radiation, prompting researchers to explore oven drying as a viable alternative due to its superior temperature stability [1].

In the context of Moringa leaf drying, several temperature-time combinations have been investigated, namely 50 °C, 60 °C, and 70 °C for 100 minutes, 160 minutes, and 180 minutes, respectively. It has been found that the optimal temperature for the formation of flavonoids, which impart potent antioxidant properties, is 60 °C with a drying time of 160 minutes. This highlights the significance of temperature control during drying processes, as different herbs exhibit varying thermal sensitivities and drying requirements [2]. Herbs containing heat-sensitive or volatile active compounds should be dried at the lowest feasible temperature, such as 30°C-45°C, or by utilizing vacuum drying techniques.

The advent of modern technologies and the automation of electronic devices have revolutionized drying procedures, facilitating improved efficiency and precision. Notably, the integration of Arduino Uno microcontrollers into dryers has enabled automated temperature regulation, streamlining the drying process and optimizing product quality [3].

This review explores the diverse applications of Moringa trees, emphasizing their roles as living fences, greenery providers, and sources of medicinal substances. The discussion encompasses the significance of Moringa leaves as a herbal remedy and the importance of temperature control during the drying process to preserve their therapeutic compounds effectively. Furthermore, the review delves into the recent advancements in dryer technology, featuring the incorporation of Arduino Uno microcontrollers for efficient temperature regulation. The comprehensive understanding of these aspects contributes to the sustainable utilization of Moringa trees and the development of innovative drying techniques for herbal products.