Physical properties and mathematical modeling of melon (Cucumis melo L.) seeds and kernels

• Main Authors: Ali Mansouri, Amir Hossein Mirzabe, Ahmad Ráufi
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier 2017-07-01
• Series: Journal of the Saudi Society of Agricultural Sciences
• Subjects: Dimensional properties; Image processing technique; Gravimetric properties; Frictional properties; Angle of repose
• Online Access: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1658077X15300126

In the present research, some physical properties of Somsori and Varamin varieties of melon seeds and kernels were studied; three principal dimensions (length, width and thickness) of melon seeds and kernels were measured using image processing technique. Results indicated that mass of the Somsori and Varamin varieties seeds was equal to 0.043 and 0.052 g, respectively. The corresponding value for melon kernels was found to be 0.031 and 0.036, respectively. True density of the Somsori and Varamin varieties seeds was equal to 1182.612 and 1132.058 kg m−3, respectively. The corresponding value for melon kernels was found to be 1479.731 and 1535.911 kg m−3, respectively. Results showed that with increasing volume of container from 500 mL to 600 mL bulk density of the seeds increased. But with increasing volume of container from 600 mL to 1500 mL, bulk density of the seeds decreased. Also with increasing volume of container from 500 mL to 1000 mL bulk density of the kernels increased. But with increasing volume of container from 1000 mL to 1500 mL, bulk density of the kernels decreased. Values of coefficient of friction of seeds and kernels on rubber surface were more than the iron, galvanized and plywood surfaces, but values of coefficient of friction of seeds and kernels on galvanized surface were less the other surfaces. Comparison between three methods of measuring angle of repose showed that values based on pouring method and filling method were more and less than the other methods, respectively.