Microstructure Analysis of Rice Kernel

Abstract

The microscopic structure of rough rice kernel has been investigated using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) after solar drying in order to identify the mechanisms of the initiation and propagation of stress induced cracks. The structure of the endosperm tissue of rice kernel has been found damaged slightly due to drying. Stress induced cracks were evident. The cracks were also found between the seed capsule and the endosperm tissue. The cracks appeared to have initiated at the center of endosperm tissue and then propagated. When stress induced cracks are produced, both sides of the endosperm tissue are damaged. Most of these cracks are propagated along the edge of the starch granule through to the cell walls. These observations are a part of a series of the studies which provide useful information for practical control or minimization of the crack formation in keeping the grade of the dried rice high.