Changes in moisture content and compression strength during storage of ventilated corrugated packaging used for handling apples

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of cold storage (−0.5∘C at 90% RH) on the mechanical performance of ‘MK4’ ventilated packaging used for handling pome fruit. The packages were stored over a period of 43 days. Compression strength of packages was measured by Lansmont squeezer compression testing machine on day 2, 4, 6 and 8 and then weekly over 6 weeks. The effect of storage duration on package moisture content and compression strength was also examined. Maximum compressive strength was reduced from 7351 to 3872 N after 2 days of storage. The package compressive strength decreased with an increase in moisture content. Average compression strength was observed to decrease by 618 N per one percent increase in moisture content. Pseudo first order kinetic model could satisfactorily analyse the adsorption of water by corrugated package with coefficient of determination of 0.9816 and standard error of 0.2554. Relationship between package compression strength with change in moisture during storage showed good correlation.