Experimental Investigation of the Drying Process During the Preparation of Eggshells Reinforced Kaolin Composite Material

This study explores the drying kinetics and mechanical properties of five kaolin composites that are reinforced with eggshells at different weight percentages (0%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%). The investigation was conducted during convective drying at two different temperature settings (60 ℃ and 80 ℃). The study examines how temperature affects the changes in moisture content and drying rate of various reinforced materials. At 80 ℃, a distinct heat reaction of eggshells was observed. The Page model was used to explain how the moisture ratio of Kaolin/eggshell composites changes over time. The study also investigated the mechanical strength of prepared samples at different temperatures and moisture content levels. The results show that an increase in the drying air temperature improves the effective moisture diffusivity coefficient of the bio-composites manufactured. However, the mechanical strength of Kaolin/eggshell composites decreases as the drying air temperature increases.