Influence of inherent moisture content on the deformation properties of coconut tissues during mechanical oil expression
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Date
2010
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Abstract
The effect of moisture content on the deformation properties of coconut (Cocos nucifera) endosperm under
mechanical uni-axial compression during a simulated oil expression situation was investigated. Fresh
coconut samples at 45% moisture content (wet basis) and prepared samples at 3%, 7%, 11% and 15% wet
basis moisture content were used. Results showed that tissues at higher moisture content (11 and 15%) had
lower compressive strength hence lower forces at bio-yield point than drier samples and they also
experienced higher deformation at bio-yield point. Low moisture samples (3% and 7%) required more force
to reach their bio-yield points at 17.7 N and 15.3 N respectively as compared to specimens with moisture
content of 11% and 15% which reached bio yield points at 11.4 N and 11.5 N respectively . Results showed
that for samples at 3%and 7%wet basis moisture content the difference between bio-yield and oil-points was
not significant (P>0.05) but there was a significant difference (P<0.05) for samples kept at 11% and 15%
moisture contents. The study confirmed that moisture content has an important role in the deformation of
coconut specimen. The compressive force required to deform the cellular structure decreased with the
increase in moisture content with 11%moisture content (wet basis) providing the optimum condition. Results
from this study has revealed that higher force would be required to express oil from drier oilseeds whereas
relatively low forces are adequate to express oil from oil seeds kept at around 11% moisture content. This
has high implication on the amount of energy required for oil expression and it is being recommended that
further studies be carried out on the influence of moisture content in oil expression.
Description
Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences 2013, Vol. 10(1) : 22-28
Keywords
Coconut Tissues, Bio-yield point, Moisture content, Oil-point