Motivation Shachi Marthu Shanbhag

Industrial drying operations are among the most energy-intensive steps in food processing, making improvements in energy efficiency a critical sustainability challenge. This project focused on exploring airless drying technologies that could reduce energy consumption at Cosun while preserving product quality across diverse materials. My goal was to translate scientific innovation into practical, industrially feasible solutions with measurable energy savings.

I conducted the evaluation of multiple airless drying concepts, including but not limited to superheated steam drying, enclosed drum drying, vacuum drum drying, and conductive hydro drying. Assessing operating principles, energy recovery potential, technology readiness, and product sensitivity developed my ability to make technical decisions under uncertainty, balancing incomplete data and complex trade-offs. Critically evaluating research, questioning assumptions, and judging the reliability of published data strengthened my analytical rigor and enabled me to provide actionable, evidence-based recommendaƟons.

To support these evaluations, I developed a MATLAB model of the drying processes, allowing me to explore system behaviour and identify key parameters to investigate. This experience taught me how to focus efforts strategically, recognizing when further analysis would yield diminishing returns; a vital skill for efficient, application-driven research. 

Beyond technical work, the project fostered substantial personal growth. Collaborating with experienced colleagues highlighted the depth of knowledge around me, while simultaneously building confidence in my own skills, intuiƟon, and judgment. I became proactive in seeking guidance, asking targeted questions, and contribuƟng meaningfully to discussions while strengthening both my analyƟcal and interpersonal capabilities.

The outcomes demonstrate a clear pathway toward more sustainable drying processes. Recommendations for enclosed drum drying and identification of promising airless technologies for sensitive products provide pracƟcal solutions to reduce energy consumption, supporting long-term sustainability goals. 

In addition to improving energy efficiency, this project also contributes to society by making sustainably produced food more accessible. By reducing energy consumption in industrial drying, it helps lower CO₂ emissions and supports environmentally responsible production practices. These improvements enable food products to be produced more sustainably, helping companies meet consumer demand for climate-conscious choices and ensuring that people can access high-quality food with a lower environmental impact. 

Receiving this award would recognize not only the technical innovation achieved but also the problem-solving, critical thinking, and professional growth demonstrated throughout the project. It would highlight the value of rigorous, application-focused research in creating real-world impact and inspire continued efforts toward sustainable, energy-efficient food processing technologies.