PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF MUSTARD SEEDS (SINAPIS ALBA L.)

Cristina Damian

Abstract
   Knowledge of the physical properties of the mustard seeds (Sinapis Alba L.), is necessary for the design of equipment for harvesting, transporting, cleaning, packing, storing, processing, etc., of the seeds. The physical properties of Sinapis Alba L. have been evaluated as a function of moisture range of the seeds. The size and mass increased from 2.8 mm to 3.04 mm and 6.9 g to 7.41 g, respectively, when the moisture content increased from 7% to 15.99%. The bulk density, porosity and angle of repose increased with the increase in the moisture content. The plywood surface offered more frictional resistance than the galvanized iron surface.

Key words: coefficient of friction, Sinapis Alba L., density, moisture content