Abstract
Jatropha curcas L. is a multipurpose bioenergy crop. Physical properties of J. curcas fruits and seeds are a fundamental knowledge required for the design of processing machinery. Therefore, this research investigates the physical properties at different maturity stages as indicated by pericarp color of the fruits (green, yellow, and black). Rupture force, hardness, deformation at rupture point, deformation ratio at rupture, and energy used for rupture were measured in the length and width direction of the fruits and in the length, width, and thickness of the seeds. During the course of maturing, a decrease in the unit mass and the surface area of the fruits was observed with a simultaneous increase for the seeds. Moisture content decreased during maturing. Bulk density and solid density were considerably different among maturity stages. The lowest porosity was observed in black fruits as well as “black” seeds. The highest dynamic and static angle of repose was detected for black fruits, while no substantial difference was observed between “yellow” and “black” seeds. The highest and lowest coefficient of static friction for all fruits and seeds was found on rubber and plastic surfaces.
Highlights
Biodiesel is a renewable energy source produced from oil-bearing crops, which is gaining attention due to low emission profiles and environmental benefits [1]
This study aims to contribute effect of maturity stage on the physical properties of J. curcas fruits and seeds, in relation to engineering to closing this knowledge gap,aims in order to enableto the development of suitable forenable fruit and aspects
The results clearly show that a substantial divergence of mechanical properties was observed among the maturity stages of both fruits and seeds, when forces were applied in different directions
Summary
Biodiesel is a renewable energy source produced from oil-bearing crops, which is gaining attention due to low emission profiles and environmental benefits [1]. With regard to the topic of “food vs fuel”, biodiesel production from non-edible oil crops such as Pongamia pinnata, Azadirachtra indica, and Jatropha curcas L. J. curcas oil is rapidly growing, due to the high oil yield and long productive period of the crop [4,5]. Hulling of the fruits [9] and shelling of the seeds [10] are considered essential mechanical postharvest processes to provide kernels (shelled seeds) as the main product [11], along with fruit hulls and seed shells as byproducts [7]. An efficient postharvest process can be accomplished by processing the appropriate fruits and seeds [8,14]
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