Degradation kinetics of aflatoxin B1 using UV-plasma assisted fluidized bed drying in corn

Abstract

Aflatoxins are secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus in various agricultural food products such as wheat, peanuts, corn, walnut, red chilli etc. They are carcinogenic and leads to a variety of serious threats to human and animal health. There are about 18 different types of aflatoxins out of which aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the most potent. This study investigates the degradation kinetics of AFB1 during the UV-Plasma assisted fluidized bed drying process in corn. In this research, a novel approach combining UV radiation and plasma technology with fluidized bed drying was employed to reduce AFB1 levels in corn. The system utilizes a fluidized bed dryer as the drying medium, which enhances mass and heat transfer, ensuring efficient decontamination. UV radiation and plasma discharge are employed simultaneously to target AFB1 molecules and induce degradation through photochemical and chemical reactions. The study involves systematically varying process parameters, including UV exposure time, and drying temperature, to assess their influence on AFB1 degradation. Samples of contaminated corn are subjected to these conditions, and AFB1 concentrations are monitored at specific time intervals using High Pressure Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC). The kinetics of AFB1 degradation are analysed using mathematical model such as first-order reactions. Preliminary results demonstrate that the combined UV-Plasma assisted fluidized bed drying process effectively reduces AFB1 levels in corn. The degradation kinetics follow first-order kinetics, and the rate of AFB1 degradation is influenced by the applied UV exposure time, and drying temperature. These findings suggest that the proposed technology has the potential to become a promising method for mitigating AFB1 contamination in corn, contributing to food safety and public health.