Abstract: In order to discuss an effective combination drying method for grains, maize was dehydrated by a combination of hot-air and microwave drying. In the first drying stage, maize was dried by hot-air of 60℃. At a point when maize moisture content reduced to 20% w.t., microwave drying was used until corn moisture content of 12~14%. Determinations of moisture and temperature of maize during the combination drying process were carried out and related mathematical models were established. Compared to hot-air drying, electrical energy consumption for combination drying was reduced by 50.6%. Furthermore, molds counts from maize used by different drying means were detected and results showed that microwave radiation had a significant germicidal efficacy for molds from maize.

Key words: Maize, Microwave-assisted drying, Hot-air drying, Combination drying, Drying models