Moisture-dependent physical properties of melon (Citrullus colocynthis lanatus) seed and kernel relevant in bulk handling

Abstract

In order to design equipment for improved processing of melon (Citrullus colocynthis lanatus) seed and kernel, some of the engineering properties need to be determined as a function of moisture content. The geometric (axial dimensions, mean diameters), gravimetric (bulk and true densities, 1,000 seed and kernel weight, and porosity) and frictional (angle of repose and static coefficient of friction) properties of melon seed and kernel in the moisture content range of 2.8–25% (d.b.) and 1.1–23% (d.b.), respectively, were investigated. The objectives of the study were to determine the effect of moisture on some moisture-dependent physical properties of melon seed and kernel, and to develop regression models for each of the properties investigated. The effect of moisture content was significant (p < 0.05) on all the physical properties investigated. The regression models developed all had high coefficient of determination, R 2 except for the sphericity and porosity of the melon seed with an R 2 of 0.3943 and 0.6570, respectively, and also, the porosity of the melon kernel with an R 2 of 0.5110. At all moisture content levels, plywood had the highest friction coefficient for the melon seed and kernel.