Structural Characterization of Kodo Millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum L.)

Abstract

Structural characteristics of kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum L.) are vital for designing equipment used in handling, transporting, processing, and storing this crop. A study was conducted to determine these characteristics for the DSLM-36-3 variety at a moisture content of 10.99±0.20% (wet basis). The research was carried out at the Department of Processing and Food Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering, UAS, Raichur, Karnataka, India, during 2022–23 and 2023–24. Key structural characteristics were measured using standard procedures and instruments. The mean size of kodo millet grains was 2.25±0.05 mm, and the grains were obovate in shape. The bulk density, true density, porosity, and thousand-grain weight were found to be 734.90±1.57 kg/m³, 1138.88±2.44 kg/m³, 35.47±0.12%, and 6.14±0.06 g, respectively. The colour values of kodo millet in terms of L*, a* and b* values were found to be 38.08±0.27, 7.87±0.13 and 16.74±0.10, respectively. The angle of repose was measured at 34.75±0.08°. The coefficient of internal friction was 1.26±0.05, and the coefficient of external friction on a mild steel sheet was 0.37±0.04. These findings provide critical data for developing post-harvest machinery such as threshers, de-stoners, graders, de-hullers, and storage systems tailored to kodo millet.