Project Number: 5430-44000-015-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Sep 25, 2004
End Date: Sep 24, 2009

Objective:
Develop instrumentation and procedures for objective grading, on-line quality measurement, sorting, and correlation of grade and quality measurements of single kernels and bulk samples to end-use properties of cereal grains and their products.

Approach:
Develop rapid sensing and sorting technology for single kernel 'micro' traits such as GMO's, protein quality, starch quality, toxins, potential biosecurity issues, and traits important for evaluating grain for non-food uses (fuel, plastics, etc). Specific projects will include: development of high-speed (>100 kernels/s) sorting techniques for separating corn kernels infested with various molds, including mycotoxin producing molds; and develop methods to detect mutant corn kernels for enhancement of breeding programs. Develop rapid (~1 kernel/s) sensing and sorting technology for single kernel 'macro' traits such as hardness, moisture content, oil, starch, class, internal insects, and protein, especially for grains other than wheat (sorghum, corn, oats, etc). Specific projects will include: development of a single kernel characterization system to help predict milling yield in corn and wheat; and use of advanced signal processing from various sensors to rapidly and automatically detect moldy and insect damaged kernels. Develop techniques to predict end-use characteristics, and to determine the accuracy and impact of these predictions. This includes studying the synergy of combining multiple measurements, evaluating sampling plans, assessing risk of various methods, conducting epidemiological studies, etc.