Application of microwaves in the convective drying of ceramic

Abstract

The paper demonstrates microwave and convective drying processes in different combinations of kaolin cylindrical samples in laboratory scale. Analysis of the kinetics and sample temperature evolution show that the moment of application and electromagnetic field duration have the biggest influence on characteristics of the drying curve and quality of dried material. Dried samples were subjected to strength tests using the Brazilian method in order to determine the relation between its quality and different drying programs. Keywords: ceramic, convective drying, microwave drying, strength test.