Ascertaining physico-mechanical properties of Prunus nepalensis Steud fruit and seed using image processing and experimental methods

The physico-mechanical properties of Prunus nepalensis fruit and seed were determined at moisture content of 88.50 and 15.62%, respectively. Image processing technique was also used to measure major dimensions and data was compared and correlated with experimental data. Significant correlation was observed between length and width of fruit and seed measured by experimental and image processing technique. The true density, bulk density and porosity of fruit were measured as 1077.41; 598.08 kg m⁻³; and 43.42%, respectively whereas, for seed these values were observed to be 1178.84; 508.80 kg m⁻³; and 57.94%. The angle of repose of fruit and seed was found to be 26.43 and 22.13°, respectively. Frictional coefficient was found lower in aluminium sheet than other surfaces. The obtained properties can be helpful for designing of processing equipment for this fruit.