Moisture adsorption-desorption isotherms of prickly pear cladode (Opuntia ficus indica) at different temperatures

Abstract

The equilibrium moisture contents of cladode of Opuntia ficus indica were determined using the gravimetric static method at 30, 40 and 50 °C over a range of relative humidity (Rh) from 0.05 to 0.9. The sorption capacity of cladode decreased with increase in temperature at constant Rh. The experimental sorption curves are then described by the GAB, Henderson's and BET models. The BET model was found to be the most suitable for describing the sorption curves. The monolayer moisture content values for the sorption at different temperatures are calculated. © 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.