Sprühtrocknung
Sprühtrocknung, also known as spray drying, is a process used to convert a liquid into a solid powder by atomizing the liquid into a hot gas stream. The liquid can be a solution, suspension, emulsion, or slurry. As the liquid droplets are dispersed into the hot drying medium, typically air, the water or solvent evaporates rapidly. This leaves behind dry solid particles. The size and morphology of these particles can be influenced by factors such as the nozzle design, liquid properties, and drying conditions. Sprühtrocknung is a widely used technique in various industries including food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and ceramics. It is valued for its ability to produce fine, uniform powders quickly and efficiently, often preserving the properties of the original liquid. The process can be continuous, making it suitable for large-scale production. However, it is important to consider the heat sensitivity of the material being dried, as excessive temperatures can lead to degradation. Various types of spray dryers exist, differing in their design and method of atomization.