Drying of Ilex paraguariensis Saint Hilaire by Microwave Radiation

Samples of Ilex paraguarienses were dried using microwave radiation at a laboratory scale. The sample temperature evolution and the moisture content rate were determined. The main results show that the process is viable and the product is acceptable for use. There is an advantage with respect to conventional drying since blanching and drying can be done in one step. The evaporation of free water for the experimental conditions is nearly uniform for leaves, twigs, and branches. The temperature during evaporation of the free water depends on the nature of the sample.