ศูนย์นวัตกรรมเทคโนโลยีหลังการเก็บเกี่ยว

A small-scale chemical applicator to prevent aflatoxin contamination in maize cobs.

Cardona, T. D.; Noomhorm, A.; Ilangantileke, S. G.; Guzman, J. D.;

Postharvest Biology and Technology Year: 1992 Vol: 1 Issue: 4 Pages: 327-342 Ref: 17 ref.

1992

บทคัดย่อ

A low-cost pedal-driven chemical applicator was designed and developed to prevent aflatoxin production in peeled maize cobs during storage. The capacities of the applicator were c. 0.6, 0.72 and 0.84 t/h at 25, 35 and 45 RPM, respectively. Two kinds of sprayer systems (knapsack and ultra low volume) were used to apply a propionic acid based chemical at 8, 12 or 16 litres per t of cobs to maize inoculated with Aspergillus flavus spores. The performance of the applicator and the efficacy of its chemical application were determined by germination, fungal count and aflatoxin tests. Germination of maize samples was inhibited after treatment with 12 or 16 litres/t of chemical, irrespective of method of application. Better fungal control was achieved at higher chemical application rates. Following treatment there was a decreasing tendency for aflatoxin spoilage to occur as storage time increased. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences between spray methods. Differences in aflatoxin levels of maize treated with 12 or 16 litres/t of chemical were not significant but were significantly different from levels in maize treated with 8 litres/t.