A Review of Drying Methods Assisted by Infrared Radiation, Microwave and Radio Frequency

The study focused on reviewing modern and effective drying methods assisted by infrared radiation, microwave and radio frequency. In which, the drying results of previous studies were reviewed to clarify the drying efficiency of drying methods with the support of infrared radiation, microwave and radio frequency. The review results showed that the radiant heating mechanism of infrared radiation and the volumetric heating mechanism of microwave and radio frequency supported the process of material heating and moisture diffusion within the material. As a result, the drying process achieved high drying efficiency, the drying time was significantly shortened and the quality of the dried products was improved both in terms of sensory quality and nutritional quality. The study of the application of infrared radiation, microwave and radio frequency in drying technique had a high scientific, technological and practical significance. This would be the foundation for finding suitable drying methods and drying modes to improve drying efficiency as well as the quality of dried products.