Structural Characteristics of Freeze-Dried Abalone: Porosimetry and Puncture Test

Pore characteristics and structural properties of freeze-dried abalone were studied by porosimetry and a mechanical puncture test. The pores were assessed by measuring apparent porosity, pore size and pore size distribution of freeze-dried samples developed by drying at different temperatures. Similarly mechanical characteristics were determined by identifying the peak force, bio-yield point and modulus of elasticity from the puncture force-displacement curve. The relationship between the mechanical properties of abalone and the characteristics of pores with structure is discussed.