Optimization of Drying Conditions of Chlorella vulgaris Using Tray Dryer for Biodiesel Feedstock

Lidya Elizabeth; Rispiandi; Laily Isna Ramadhani; Dhyna Analyes Trirahayu; Irwan Hidayatulloh

Authors

Lidya Elizabeth Politeknik Negeri Bandung Author
Rispiandi Politeknik Negeri Bandung Author
Laily Isna Ramadhani Politeknik Negeri Bandung Author
Dhyna Analyes Trirahayu Politeknik Negeri Bandung Author
Irwan Hidayatulloh Politeknik Negeri Bandung Author

Keywords:

drying, Chlorella vulgaris, tray dyer, drying efficiency, microalgae

Abstract

Microalgae are one of the primary feedstocks for biodiesel production due to their high lipid content, ranging from 4–77% of dry weight. Chlorella vulgaris is considered a superior species with a lipid content of 5–40% based on dry weight. Drying microalgae into powder form has been developed to improve handling, storage, and application, including in biodiesel production. However, drying remains a major challenge, as inappropriate methods may cause lipid degradation due to high-temperature exposure. This study aims to dry Chlorella vulgaris using a tray dryer and to optimize its operating conditions through analysis of variance based on Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Based on the literature, no previous studies have used a tray dryer for drying Chlorella vulgaris. Optimization was conducted by varying drying temperature (55–75°C) and air velocity (1.5–1.7 m/s) to achieve the highest drying efficiency. The highest efficiency was achieved at 79°C and 1.6 m/s, reaching 99.99% with energy consumption of 603.17 kWh/kg. Meanwhile, RSM analysis showed that the optimum condition was at 75°C and 1.7 m/s, resulting in 99.89% efficiency with energy consumption of 693.97 kWh/kg. Drying at both 75°C and 79°C proved to be efficient and safe in preserving lipid compounds in microalgae.

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