LNT microwave-multiphase transport model for the microwave drying of lignite thin layer

The LNT microwave-multiphase transport model has been applied to the microwave drying of lignite thin layer. Microwave energy, temperature and moisture distribution were obtained to gain a comprehensive understanding on the heat and mass transfer mechanism of the drying process. The required drying time of experiments decreased by 50, 63, 67, and 83%, respectively, with the power level rising from 119 to 700 W, while that decreased by 60, 72, 76 and 86%, respectively, for simulation results. The temperature values of the corner and edge of the lignite thin layer were higher than that of the center region, which corresponded to the microwave energy distribution. The moisture ratio profiles, temperature profiles and temperature distribution indicated good agreement between the experimental and simulation results, providing confidence in the modeling approach, which made it possible to obtain the moisture distribution successfully via simulation method.Keywords: microwave; lignite; thin layer.