Hygroscopic Moisture Absorption by Alfalfa Cubes and Pellets

Alfalfa cubes and pellets were exposed to environmental conditions ranging from 70 to 90% relative humidity and 10 to 40 C. The solid pieces absorbed up to 12 percentage points in moisture during a 48 to 72 h period. The corresponding increases in solid volume were 15 to 20%. The increased volume and moisture content of the cubes and pellets made them more susceptible to breakage and disintegration.