Micro-computed tomography observation of sublimation interface and image analysis on sublimation process during freeze-drying.

The freeze-drying process is complicated with complex heat and mass transfer during sublimation. The sublimation interface of freeze-drying has become more attractive and meaningful recently. In this study, apple slices undergoing sublimation were scanned by a Micro-CT scanner. The cross-sectional images were reconstructed with those scanning images respectively. The technique of grey value analysis was used to recognize the procedure. The results showed that, from direct scanning images and 2-D reconstructed images, a 3-D moving mode of sublimation interface which contracted to the centre of the sample could be seen, sublimation process proceeded from edge to center gradually. The grey value of ice crystals was determined to be 154 through gauss calculation. By comparing frozen sample with freeze-dried one, the ice crystals regions in the beginning became the porous regions after drying, grey values increased correspondingly. Samples shrunk slightly after drying for 3 to 7 hours, which could be distinguished by the change in grey values.