Elasticity of Malaysian Papaya as a design criterion for prevention of damage during transportation

Abstract

Damage to fruits for processing and fresh consumption dUring transportation can be quite significant. This problem can be studied from the context of vibration theory. Based on this theory, it is possible to reduce the damage by manipulating the natural frequency of the container of fruits. To compute this natural frequency, the elasticity of the fruit has to be determined. This article reports the results ofa study carried out on the subject for Malaysia papaya (Carica Papaya, var. Serdang). The plate test was used to determine the elasticity. Results from the test were used for computing the natural frequency of the fruit. By knowing the frequency, it is possible to avoid resonance vibration during transportation by proper design of container. The elasticity also serves as an indication of the stage at which the fruit is more susceptable to damage. In the case of the Malaysian papaya, there is a substantial drop in elasticity as the fruit matures, indicating that the resistance to bruising and damage is lowered considerably.