Effect of moisture content on the physical and mechanical properties of quinoa seeds

Abstract

The study was conducted to compare the engineering properties of Indian quinoa seeds with increase in moisture content. Close dependency of the properties on moisture content was observed. Two germplasms of quinoa IC-411824 and EC-507739 were investigated. The results showed that the principal dimensions of EC-507739 were higher than those of IC-411824. With an increase in moisture mean values of true density increased from 993 to 1166 kg m-3 for EC-507739 and from 984 to 1097 kg m-3 for IC-411824. Coefficient of friction showed an increase of 16.29, 16.00, and 18.93% against glass, galvanized iron and wood respectively in case of IC-411824. However, for EC-507739 increase of 19.12, 22.73, and 23.21% was observed against glass, galvanized iron and wood respectively. Mechanical properties were higher for EC-507739 than IC-411824 and decreased with increase in moisture content for both the varieties. Mechanical behavior of seed can be used in designing of grinding machines.