Simulating the dynamic influence of temperature variation on allowable storage time of shelled corn

Abstract

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesFollowing mechanical harvest, shelled corn is susceptible to decreased quality in storage environments. The rate at which shelled corn deteriorates is dependent upon numerous factors, but temperature and moisture content are predominant. The standard methodology for quantifying grain deterioration is to express it as a percent dry matter loss, where 0.5% dry matter loss corresponds directly with a number of safe storage days, known as allowable storage time (AST). However, current shelled corn allowable storage time values, based on ASABE standard D535, are only applicable for a specific temperature and a specific moisture content. Therefore, this study simulated and reviewed how natural temperature variation dynamically affects the response in shelled corn allowable storage time.FindingsTwo separate simulations were configured, and the results showed that, depending on the given moisture content, temperature trends, and when shelled corn is initially placed in storage, AST can be extended at certain points throughout the year. Additionally, it was revealed that there is a considerable difference between dynamic AST values and static (traditional) AST values contained within the current shelled corn storage time chart.ConclusionsThe number of safe allowable storage days is substantially impacted by grain moisture and deviations in daily temperature.Significance and NoveltyThe study makes an important contribution toward understanding the dynamic storage behavior of corn due to changes in temperature and moisture levels. This research builds on current knowledge, but it presents a more refined estimation of theoretical shelled corn allowable storage time.