C. Validation of the Empirical Mathematical Model
Based on the multiple regression analysis, the accepted model constants and coefficient were expressed in terms of the drying temperature (T). The relationship of constant parameters of empirical mathematical model (k and n) of the Page model in term drying temperature is demonstrated as follows:
The suitability of the Page model for predicting the change of moisture content in coconut residue was validated with the defined condition. The constant parameters at air temperature 75, 85, and 95oC of Page model were calculated by equations (7) and (8). Fig. 3 presents the comparison between the actual and the predicted moisture content % (d.b.) in coconut residue by using the Page model from fluidized bed drying at 75, 85,
and 95oC, respectively. The linear nature of the curve, with 45o slope from the origin, indicates that the predicted model was in a good fit with the actual moisture changes. The Page model of all drying temperatures gave the R2 value higher than 0.95. Therefore, the result proved that the Page model was suitable for describing fluidized bed drying behavior of coconut residue.