Mathematical models traditionally employed in fitting convective drying data do not use to report information about chemical and other physical changes different from the simple decrease in moisture content. In the present study, structural damage undergone by fresh and vacuum impregnated apple slices with different calcium lactate concentrations during convective drying at 30, 40 and 50 degrees C was analysed by applying equations derived from nonlinear irreversible thermodynamics to experimental data. According to the results obtained, vacuum impregnation with isotonic sucrose solution before drying at 30 degrees C provided maximum protection to cellular structure by promoting reversible deformations against irreversible breakages. On the contrary, cell walls strengthen with calcium had severe damaged during drying. Regarding air temperature, it was directly related both to the molar energy employed in deforming structures and the drying rate. These results were confirmed by analysing dried samples behaviour during further rehydration. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.