Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Department of Agricultural Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
2
Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, College of Agriculture and Food, Qassim University, P.O.Box 6622, Buraydah, Al-Qassim 51452, Saudi Arabia
3
Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Menoufia University, Menoufia , Egypt
4
Department of Water Relations and Field Irrigation, Agricultural and Biological Research Institute, National Research Centre, Egypt
Abstract
This study evaluates the engineering properties of various carriers for date palm pollen grains, including Wheat Flour (WF), Wheat Bran (WB), Banana Peels (BP), Male Spathe Flowers (MSF), and Female Bunch Strands (FBS). The focus is on bulk density, repose angle, dynamic coefficient of friction, and terminal velocity. Bulk density ranged from 0.321 to 0.831 g cm⁻³, with date palm pollen grain (DPP) showing the highest value, suggesting efficient storage but potential flowability issues. Repose angles varied from 24 to 47 degrees; DPP and DPP+FBS (Female bunch strands) had the lowest angles, favoring smooth flow during pollination, while wheat flour (WF) had the highest, indicating resistance and clumping. Friction analysis across different surfaces (acrylic, PVC, aluminum, and stainless steel) highlighted material-surface interactions. Terminal velocity results showed DPP with a balanced value of 0.96 m s⁻¹, while mixtures like DPP+FBS and DPP+BP (banana peels) had low to moderate velocities (0.6 m s⁻¹ and 1.02 m s⁻¹), enhancing dispersion. DPP and its mixtures, especially DPP+FBS, exhibited favorable pollination properties with good flowability and moderate friction, promoting efficient distribution. In contrast, higher friction materials like FBS could hinder application. The study emphasizes the need to select carriers with optimal density, repose angle, and friction to improve pollination efficiency, supporting better agricultural outcomes. Mixtures DPP+FBS and DPP+MSF emerged as the best option, balancing physical, mechanical and aerodynamic characteristics for effective pollination.
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