Soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) Seed Drying in Fixed Bed: Process Heterogeneity and Seed Quality

Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) is the most important oilseed in the world market. Seed quality has a direct influence on the success of the crop and contributes significantly to productivity levels. The quality of soybean seeds can be influenced by several factors during drying. This study evaluated the drying of soybean seeds in a fixed bed dryer, considering the heterogeneity of the process and the effect of process variables on seed quality. Seed and air temperatures, seed moisture, and seed quality were measured throughout the bed. Empirical equations were obtained relating seed quality indicators, at several bed axial positions, as a function of process variables.